Consul Has Soft Spot For Malaysia

From Adnan Jahaya BARCELONA, May 2 (Bernama) -- Manuel A. Condeminas, 75, has a soft spot for Malaysia. It is understandable because he is Malaysia's honorary consul in Barcelona, having been appointed to the post in 1981. Condeminas, a leading businessman here, Monday received a pat on the back from the Crown Prince of Malaysian Northern State of Perlis, Tuanku Syed Faizuddin Putra Jamalullail, who commended him for having given "excellent service" as the honorary consul. Tuanku Syed Faizuddin, who is leading the Perlis Fatwa Committee on a working visit to Spain, recalled that Condeminas once offered his residence for accommodation when the hotels in Barcelona were full during an event. The Raja Muda is also president of the Perlis Islamic Religious and Malay Customs Council (MAIPs). Condeminas' residence is easily identifiable by any Malaysian. It has a signboard bearing the words "Bunga Raya", the national flower of Malaysia, and of course there is the "Jalur Gemilang" Malaysian flag. Condeminas said he was impressed with Malaysia's achievements in various aspects, and added that the close diplomatic ties between Malaysia and Spain had opened up opportunities for Malaysians, particularly in education, in Spain. He said 15 Malaysians were studying in various fields in Barcelona and University of Malaysia,Perlis (UniMAP) had also established collaboration with an institution of higher learning here. "I am pleased that these students can fulfill their obligations here without any trouble. I always see them," he said. Condeminas praised Perlis for its natural beauty, and said he has visited several attractions in the state, including the Snake and Reptile Park. --BERNAMA