Dr Tjok Oka is Malaysia’s Honorary Consul in Bali

BALI: A well-known businessman in Bali, Dr Tjok Oka Artha Ardana Sukawati, was appointed as Malaysia’s Honorary Consul in Bali effective yesterday.

Malaysian Ambassador to Indonesia Datuk Seri Zahrain Mohamed Hashim handed over the letter of appointment from the Yang di- Pertuan Agong to Tjok Oka, 61, at Puri Ubud here Thursday night.

Tjok Oka has a Doctorate of Philosophy ( PhD) in the field of Cultural studies from Universiti Udayana, Bali and is also an academician at a local university here.

He is a descendant of the Raja Ubud family and a member of the board of several noted companies in Bali including the hotel industry and architecture.

Zahrain, in his speech in conjunction with the ceremony to hand over the letter of appointment, said the appointment of a consul in Bali was significant to Malaysia because the world famous tourist island attracted millions Malaysian visitors each year.

In addition, he said, there were about 200 Malaysian students pursuing medical studies at Universiti Udayana and Malaysian professionals working on the island.

“We have confidence that with the experience he has as a businessman and an academician, Tjok Oka can play a positive role as a consul representing the Malaysian government in Bali,” he said.

Meanwhile, Tjok Oka said he was touched and proud for being chosen as Malaysia’s Honorary Consul and would give the best possible service.

He said the appointment was an honour for a citizen of Bali and it directly forged closer relations between the people of the island and Malaysia.

The Malaysian Consulate would run its operation at Puri Kumara Sakti, Jalan Bentuyung, Ubud, Gianyar, Bali. — Bernama of