Celebrates Blue Pottery and Multani Heritage
MULTAN: In a visit that beautifully blended diplomacy with cultural discovery, Madam Amelia Amani Azhar, the gracious wife of Malaysia’s High Commissioner to Pakistan, Dato’ Muhammad Azhar Mazlan, fulfilled a long-cherished dream by spending several memorable days in the historic city of Multan. Her genuine enthusiasm and deep appreciation for Pakistan’s heritage have left a lasting impression, further strengthening the warm and brotherly bonds between Malaysia and Pakistan.
From the moment she arrived, Madam. Amelia Azhar made it clear that Multan held a special place in her heart. She had often expressed her desire to her husband: “When you go to Multan, I want to join you.” When the official tour was finally planned, her excitement was palpable. “I was eagerly waiting for the day I would finally see Multan,” she shared warmly with hosts and journalists.
Spiritual Beginning at Hazrat Shah Rukn-e-Alam
The visit began on a spiritual note with a visit to the majestic shrine of Hazrat Shah Rukn-e-Alam , one of Multan’s most revered Sufi landmarks and a symbol of the city’s identity as the “City of Saints”. From the historic Damdama , the elevated platform adjoining the shrine, the delegation enjoyed a breathtaking panoramic view of Multan’s old city, with its maze of narrow lanes, domed rooftops, and centuries-old architecture.
Local historians gave the group a detailed briefing on Multan’s rich history, spanning over 5,000 years. They spoke of its role as a center of Sufism, trade, and craftsmanship. For Madam. Amelia Azhar, the visit was a fitting introduction to Multan’s spiritual soul and cultural depth.
Highlight: Immersion in Multan’s Blue Pottery
The highlight of the trip, however, was the next day’s extended exploration of the Multan Institute of Blue Pottery . Madam. Amelia Azhar was captivated from the very first moment she stepped into the workshop. She spent nearly six to seven hours immersed in the world of this exquisite traditional craft, watching skilled artisans shape clay on wheels, fire pieces in kilns, and apply intricate cobalt-blue designs with remarkable precision and artistry.
Her interest went far beyond admiration. She engaged directly with the craftsmen, asked questions about the history of the technique, and tried her hand at painting a ceramic piece. She personally selected and purchased a beautiful collection of blue pottery crockery, decorative plates, bowls, and elegant vases. Members of the Malaysian High Commission accompanying her also enthusiastically bought souvenirs for their families.
So enchanted was she by the craft that she declared she would proudly gift these pieces to her friends back in Malaysia. Choosing the perfect item Madam proved delightfully difficult — she laughingly admitted it took her nearly five hours to decide what to take and what to leave behind. “Every piece tells a story,” she said, “and I want to take home as many stories as I can.”
Call for International Recognition of Artisans
Deeply moved by the craftsmanship, Madam. Amelia Azhar expressed a heartfelt wish: “I hope the artisans of Multan can one day come to Malaysia to showcase and practice their art.” She also voiced her desire to return to the Institute on her next visit to Multan, promising to spend even more time there and to bring a larger delegation.
In glowing words, she praised the artisans and their dedication to preserving a dying art. She hoped that blue pottery and similar Pakistani ceramics would gain greater international recognition. “This can help showcase Pakistan’s talent to the world, brighten the country’s image globally, and significantly boost exports,” she observed with genuine admiration. She emphasized that cultural diplomacy through handicrafts can create economic opportunities while building bridges between nations.
Ambassador Joins the Tour
Later in the day, Ambassador Dato’ Muhammad Azhar Mazlan joined his wife at the Institute. He too showed keen interest, received a comprehensive briefing on the technical process of blue pottery, and expressed his delight at the exceptional quality and heritage value of the craft. He noted that Malaysia and Pakistan share a deep appreciation for traditional arts, and such exchanges can inspire young artists in both countries.
Cultural Shopping and Culinary Delights
The cultural journey continued with shopping that reflected Multan’s vibrant traditions. Madam. Amelia Azhar explored the famous Khussa Market , showing great interest in the intricately embroidered traditional ladies’ shoes. She admired the fine thread work, mirror work, and leather craftsmanship, making several purchases for herself and family members.
She was equally captivated by handmade Multani embroidered clothes, carefully selecting elegant suits featuring traditional _phulkari_ and _aari_ work. The rich colors and detailed embroidery drew repeated compliments from her.
No visit to Multan would be complete without its legendary Sohan Halwa. The ambassador’s wife found the traditional sweet irresistible and bought generous quantities to take home. She described it as “a perfect blend of tradition and taste” and said she would introduce it to her friends in Kuala Lumpur.
People-to-People Diplomacy
Madam. Amelia Azhar’s visit was far more than a diplomatic tour; it was a celebration of Pakistan’s living heritage and a testament to the power of people-to-people connections. Her warmth, curiosity, and sincere appreciation have not only highlighted Multan’s treasures but also opened promising avenues for cultural collaboration between Malaysia and Pakistan.
She noted that when diplomats and their families engage directly with local culture, it creates lasting goodwill that goes beyond official statements. Her interactions with artisans, shopkeepers, and students reflected the spirit of mutual respect and friendship that defines Malaysia-Pakistan relations.
Multan Welcomes Cultural Ambassadors
Multan, and indeed all of Pakistan, warmly welcomes such distinguished guests who see beyond official engagements to embrace the soul of our culture. The city’s residents expressed delight that a high-profile visitor took such keen interest in their traditions and crafts.
Local officials said visits like this help promote cultural tourism and give international visibility to Multan’s artisans. They expressed hope that Madam. Amelia Azhar’s appreciation would encourage more Malaysian tourists and art lovers to explore Pakistan.
We look forward to Madam. Amelia Azhar’s promised return — and to many more such bridges of friendship being built, one exquisite blue pottery piece at a time. Her visit has added a new, colorful chapter to the long history of Malaysia-Pakistan cultural ties, reminding both nations that shared heritage and mutual respect remain the strongest foundations for future cooperation.
