By Azman Ujang
KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 2 (NNN-BERNAMA) — Karin Mossenlechner is saying goodbye after what she described as “three beautiful and bustling” years as the Netherlands Ambassador to Malaysia.
She is returning to The Hague to take up a new appointment as Director of Asia and Oceania at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
In a farewell note received by Bernama, Mossenlechner said saying goodbye is the hardest part of diplomatic life and all the more difficult when leaving a place and people she has come to love.
“Malaysia has it all: the climate, the beautiful nature, the cultural and religious diversity, which is a true asset of the country, the food, the quality of life.
“But it is the people – you! – that we will miss most of all, and that made our time in Malaysia special; from Day One we have been received here with unknown friendliness, warmth and hospitality,” she said.
The envoy said she had three wonderful years and never a dull moment here with the 14th general election in May last year as a watershed moment in the middle.
“On May 9, 2018, Malaysia showed us that democratic change and a peaceful transition of government is possible. As a diplomat, I feel privileged to have been here to witness this historic moment,” Mossenlechner added.
About her new appointment effective Aug 12, she pointed out that it would enable her to stay closely connected with “this beautiful region” and frequently return to this part of the world.
She will be succeeded by Aart Jacobi, currently the Netherlands Ambassador to Japan.
The outgoing ambassador ended her note in Malay: “Terima kasih untuk segala-galanya dan kita berjumpa lagi!” (Thank you for everything and we’ll meet again!)
— NNN-BERNAMA
