INTERNATIONAL YOUTHS IMPRESSED WITH MALAYSIA'S ACHIEVEMENTS

KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 16 (Bernama) -- International youths participating in the
Global Model United Nations (GMUN 2010) Conference here were impressed with the
achievements and progress made by Malaysia as a fast-developing Muslim country.

Kenyan Abdallah Salim, 21, said Malaysia managed to achieve tremendous
achievements since 53 years of independence and remains a very good example of
developed countries, especially to other Islamic countries.

"What you have managed to achieve in just 53 years is tremendous, this is
wonderful and you have done this in the same amount of time like we (Kenya) had
our independence.

"I think it is because how you work, the work ethic here is wonderful and I
think you have really done wonders," said the University of Nairobi's law
student to Bernama on the sidelines of the GMUN 2010 here Monday.

Egyptian Yara Abdelalim, 19, said other countries must learn how Malaysia,
being a multi-ethnic and multi-religious country, can continue preserving its
harmony.

"Despite the cultural differences, you can work really well together, so
that is something that we can really learn from Malaysia," said the University
of Cairo's medical student.

Monica Seif, 18, of Lebanon was touched by the sincerity and warmth of the
people of Malaysia.

"The people of Malaysia impressed me most with their sincerity, simplicity
and natural warmth. They are very helpful and very kind hearted.

"Yesterday (Sunday), I had a walk around the city of Kuala Lumpur and I got
lost, but I managed to find the way, I just had to ask and everybody was so
happy to help with a smile on their faces," she said.

The conference themed "Towards an Alliance of Civilization: Bridging
Cultures to Achieve Peace and Development" organised by the UN Department of
Public Information features 360 university students from 58 UN member countries,
including 62 from Malaysia.
-- BERNAMA