ISLAND ESCAPADE FOR MALAYSIANS IN UAE

By Muin Abdul Majid

DUBAI, March 10 (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 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.
-- BERNAMA