DUBAI, March 9 (Bernama) - Over 300 Malaysians converged on a private island off Umm al Quwain recently for what has been described as the first community gathering held outside United Arab Emirates' (UAE) major cities of Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
With family and friends tagging along, they spent the day playing beach games under the hot sun or simply relaxing in the cabanas during the event dubbed "Island Escapade 2009".
Joining them on the island, about one hour's drive from Dubai, were Malaysian ambassador to UAE Datuk Yahaya Abdul Jabar and consul-general in Dubai Syed Mohamad Hasrin Tengku Hussin, both of whom participated in some of the games.
"I applaud the organisers of Island Escapade which allows us to forge closer relations among fellow Malaysians who come from all the seven emirates of the UAE," Yahaya said, to loud cheers from the crowd.
Yahaya, Syed Mohamad Hasrin and myUAE-PRO president Ariffin Mamat later presented prizes to the winners.
Although the event was held at an island, no one ventured out to swim after being warned about the presence of slug-like creatures in the water.
The danger they might pose also prompted the cancellation of several water-theme games and activities drawn up by myUAE-PRO. But this did not stop the Malaysians from huffing and puffing their way to victory in the other events, egged on by excited spectators and fellow team members.
Mohamad Hasrin reckoned that the objective of bringing Malaysians together as a community had been achieved during Island Escapade and expressed the hope that it would continue in the future.
Most of the Island Escapade participants heaped praise on myUAE-PRO members and volunteers for a well-organised event.
"My three kids enjoyed themselves so much. You can count on us to be there if they decide to hold a similar gathering the next time around," said a Malaysian housewife from Dubai.
Affandy Shaari, project director for the event, also thanked the various sponsors for their contributions - By Muin Abdul Majid
