By FABIAN DeROZARIO

On July 4, 2006, Malaysia was represented, for the first time ever, in the WSB TV Salute to America Parade in Atlanta, Georgia, United States.  Eight members of the newly formed Malaysian Association of Georgia (MAG) walked the parade holding the Malaysian flag and signs that said “Malaysia.” 

Participating were Fabian De Rozario (MAG President), Jesslyna De Rozario, Serene Ballew, Ray Wong, Doreen Lapic, Wendy Ho, Lydia Cloninger and Libby Leong.

Malaysians take the opportunity to get dressed up in traditional costumes for the WSB TV Salute to America Parade in Atlanta, Georgia.

Ray Wong said, “It was really exciting to walk the parade and hear people yell out ‘Malaysia!’ There were so many nice people waving at us.

“I was particularly struck at one woman in the crowd who held a large sign that said, ‘America welcomes ALL’.”

Malaysia now has a visible presence in the Atlanta metro area since the formation of MAG in June 2005. 

Since then, this association, made up of 150+ members, has held numerous activities, including the annual Malaysian Gala, commemorating Merdeka Day.

This year, MAG’s Malaysian Gala is slated for Aug 26 at the Sheraton Hotel Buckhead in Atlanta, Georgia.  For more information, visit www.malaysia-ga.org.