A Lasting Legacy: Brazilian Ambassador Ary Norton de Murat Quintella’s Reflections on His Time in Malaysia
As his tenure in Malaysia comes to a close, Brazilian Ambassador Ary Norton de Murat Quintella reflects on a period of strengthened diplomatic ties, cultural exchanges, and personal connections. Relations between Brazil and Malaysia have reached their strongest level since Quintella assumed his post in 2020, just before the COVID-19 Movement Control Order was implemented in the country.
A Lasting Contribution: His Book on KLCC Park
Reflecting on his time in Malaysia, Quintella considers his book, A Brazilian in Kuala Lumpur: The KLCC Park and Roberto Burle Marx, launched in January last year, as one of his most cherished achievements in Malaysia. The book highlights KLCC Park’s significance in Brazil-Malaysia relations, as it was designed by Brazil’s renowned landscape architect, Roberto Burle Marx (1909–1994). The project, completed in 1998 after his passing, remains his only work in Asia and possibly his final masterpiece.
Batik and Beryl’s
A frequent wearer of Malaysian batik, the ambassador noted that after five years in Malaysia, he now has a collection of nine batik shirts, some of which were given to him as gifts. "The Malaysian batik shirt is more comfortable than suits and ties, and the batiks have very beautiful patterns," added the ambassador, who chose to wear a blue and green batik during this meeting – colours found in the Brazilian flag. Reflecting on his stay in Malaysia, Quintella admitted to developing a fondness for locally produced Beryl’s chocolates – an indulgence that, he joked, has led to some weight gain.
From Rubber Seeds to Trade
History has long linked Brazil and Malaysia through trade and natural resources. Responding to whether Brazilians are as familiar with Malaysia as Malaysians are with Brazil, particularly its famed Samba football team during every World Cup season, he said that all Brazilian schoolchildren know about Malaysia. All schoolchildren are taught that in 1877, rubber seeds were brought from Brazil to Malaysia by the British. "It was the first time rubber seeds had been taken out of the Amazon," Quintella explained.
Looking Ahead: BRICS and ASEAN Collaboration
The ambassador expressed optimism that Brazil, which assumes the BRICS presidency this year, and Malaysia, which is chairing ASEAN in 2025 – with Brazil as one of its dialogue partners – will continue to strengthen their diplomatic and cultural ties in the years to come. Malaysia made it as a partner country into the BRICS alliance in October 2024. "Malaysia will always be with me," he said.
Conclusion
As Quintella prepares to depart on February 10, he expressed hope that Brazil and Malaysia will continue to complement each other – much like the KLCC Park harmonising with the Petronas Twin Towers in the heart of Kuala Lumpur. His tenure in Malaysia has been marked by strengthened diplomatic ties, cultural exchanges, and personal connections. As he departs, he leaves behind a lasting legacy that will continue to shape the relationship between Brazil and Malaysia.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are the key achievements of Brazilian Ambassador Ary Norton de Murat Quintella during his tenure in Malaysia?
A: Quintella’s key achievements include the launch of his book, A Brazilian in Kuala Lumpur: The KLCC Park and Roberto Burle Marx, and the launch of The Brazilian Film Festival in 2023.
Q: What is the significance of KLCC Park in Brazil-Malaysia relations?
A: KLCC Park was designed by Brazil’s renowned landscape architect, Roberto Burle Marx, and is a symbol of the strong cultural ties between Brazil and Malaysia.
Q: What is the current state of trade relations between Brazil and Malaysia?
A: Brazil is now Malaysia’s biggest trading partner in South America, and the two countries have a competitive edge in integrated circuit (IC) design.