President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah commissions Christine Hoebes as Namibia ‘s Higher Commissioner-designated to Malaysia
President Dr Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah today commissioned Honourable Christine Hoebes as Namibia’s High Commissioner-designate to Malaysia, urging her to strengthen bilateral relations and advance Namibia’s national interests through economic diplomacy.
The commissioning ceremony was held at State House, where President Nandi-Ndaitwah said the appointment carries the responsibility of representing Namibia’s values, protecting the country’s interests and promoting cooperation between Namibia and Malaysia.
President Nandi-Ndaitwah said the appointment was made in accordance with Article 82(3)(c) of the Constitution of the Republic of Namibia, which empowers the President to appoint suitable and qualified Namibians to represent the country as ambassadors and high commissioners.
She said Hoebes will serve as a representative of the Government and people of Namibia, with the responsibility of promoting Namibia’s sovereignty, national interests and development agenda.
The President expressed confidence in Hoebes’ ability to carry out her diplomatic duties with professionalism, integrity and commitment, based on her experience in public service.
“Your primary duty is to protect and advance Namibia’s national interest and its people,” President Nandi-Ndaitwah said, while encouraging Hoebes to uphold the Constitution, respect the laws of Malaysia as her host country and conduct herself in a manner that reflects the aspirations of Namibians.
President Nandi-Ndaitwah highlighted the longstanding relationship between Namibia and Malaysia, describing the partnership as one built on mutual respect, solidarity and shared development goals.
She said Malaysia remains an important partner for Namibia, with opportunities to expand cooperation in areas such as trade, tourism, technology transfer, education and research.
The President emphasised that economic diplomacy should remain at the centre of Hoebes’ mission, including promoting market access for Namibian products, encouraging investment and strengthening private-sector collaboration between the two countries.
She further called on the High Commissioner-designate to contribute to Namibia’s international engagements through platforms such as the United Nations, the African Union, SADC and the Commonwealth, particularly in promoting peace, sustainable development and multilateral cooperation.
President Nandi-Ndaitwah also encouraged Hoebes to maintain strong relations with Namibians living abroad and encourage them to contribute their knowledge, expertise and investment towards Namibia’s development.
Before departing for her duty station, Hoebes will undergo an induction programme organised by the Ministry of International Relations and Trade to prepare her for her diplomatic responsibilities.
The President congratulated Hoebes on her appointment, saying she carries the hopes, aspirations and confidence of the Namibian people as she begins her mission in Malaysia.
She wished the High Commissioner-designate success and expressed hope that her tenure would further strengthen friendship, cooperation and lasting partnership between Namibia and Malaysia.
