On 11 September 2025, H.E. Ms. Lada Phumas, Ambassador of Thailand to Malaysia, together with the Malaysian Prison Department, organized a Thai dessert-making activity and visited Thai inmates at Bentong Prison, Pahang. The event was attended by DCP Zulia binti Khamis @ Ahmad Kamil, Director of the International Affairs and Prisoner Transfer Division, and SAC Azuwan Hafiz bin Ahmad, Deputy Director of Bentong Prison, along with officers of the Malaysian Prison Department and more than 60 inmates.

 

The program featured a briefing by the Deputy Director of Bentong Prison, a tour of the Royal Pahang Weaving Project under the royal patronage of Her Majesty Tunku Azizah Aminah Maimunah Iskandariah binti Tunku Mahmood Iskandar, Queen of Pahang, and a Thai dessert demonstration under the concept of “Sweet Diplomacy.” Participants enjoyed learning and tasting Thai desserts in a pleasant atmosphere.

 

The Ambassador demonstrated how to prepare traditional steamed Thai desserts made from purple sweet potato, pumpkin, and banana, local ingredients valued for their nutritional benefits and delicate flavor. The Malaysian Prison Department expressed interest in incorporating the recipe into prison meals, reflecting tangible cooperation between the Embassy and the Department in enhancing inmates’ welfare and fostering mutual cultural understanding, thereby contributing to overall Thailand - Malaysia relations.

 

On this occasion, the Ambassador also visited Thai inmates, offering words of encouragement and reaffirming the Embassy’s policy of regular prison visits. Ms. Pinyada Reiniger, Counsellor, provided legal knowledge sharing and introduced the Embassy’s legal assistance program for Thais in Malaysia to ensure their rights are well protected.

 

This activity was organized following Malaysia Women’s Day (25 August 2025) and in commemoration of the 68th anniversary of Thailand - Malaysia diplomatic relations (31 August 2025). It highlighted the important role of women in social development and in strengthening the bonds of friendship between the two countries. The Ambassador expressed appreciation to the Malaysian Prison Department, Ministry of Home Affairs, for their continued care and support for Thai inmates.