KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 28 — Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva received a heartwarming surprise at the Asean Summit gala dinner last night, celebrating his 80th birthday in style.
According to the New Straits Times, the event took a festive turn when Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim took Lula by the arm and led him to the stage, prompting applause and a lively rendition of the birthday song from the guests.
Dressed in a purple batik shirt, Lula was joined by his wife, Rosângela, as he cut a specially decorated cake — marking a memorable moment for the leader, who had earlier shared his joy about reaching the milestone.
“I just turned 80 today and I feel really great. I hope to live until 120. I am a bit sad, because I did not see anyone bringing me presents,” Lula quipped during a press conference earlier in the day.
The celebration continued as Lula and Anwar greeted several Malaysian ministers, including Minister of Plantation and Commodities Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Gani, Transport Minister Anthony Loke, Communications Minister Datuk Seri Fahmi Fadzil, Health Minister Datuk Seri Dzulkefly Ahmad, and Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming.
The evening was further enlivened by performances from Malaysian music stars such as Datuk Seri Siti Nurhaliza, veteran musician Datuk M. Nasir, and singer Dayang Nurfaizah, adding to the vibrant atmosphere of the gala.
Lula later took to X (formerly Twitter) to express his gratitude for the warm birthday tribute from fellow leaders.
“I wrap up today’s day among new friends and old companions whom I met here in Malaysia. Heads of State from South-east Asia and invited countries, who paid a beautiful tribute for my birthday. To all of them, my deepest gratitude. I hope to meet them soon in Brazil,” he posted earlier today.
Finalizo o dia de hoje entre novos amigos e antigos companheiros que encontrei aqui na Malásia. Chefes de Estado do Sudeste Asiático e países convidados, que fizeram uma bonita homenagem pelo meu aniversário. A todos eles, minha profunda gratidão. Espero encontrá-los em breve no… pic.twitter.com/LPtcml7lXl
— Lula (@LulaOficial) October 27, 2025
