Tasmania's ties to Malaysia have been celebrated at a gala dinner in Hobart this evening.

The Minister for Community Development, Cassy O'Connor, said tonight's celebrations marked National Day and Malaysia Day.

"Tonight's event recognises two key dates in Malaysia's history - the nation's independence from British colonial rule in 1957, and the subsequent formation of the Federation of Malaysia in 1963," she said.

Ms O'Connor congratulated members of Tasmania's Malaysian student community for organising tonight's festivities, which also features local music and dance.

"The great work of the Malaysian Students' Council of Australia and the Malaysian Student Society at UTAS in organising tonight's event has been exceptional, and I commend them for their efforts" she said.

"Tasmania enjoys strong trade and tourism links with Malaysia, and events like this help strengthen those ties as well as giving members of the broader community the chance to experience aspects of a different culture.

"People attending Malaysia Night have not only been given the opportunity to meet new people and get a better understanding of Malaysian culture, they've had a chance to sample some Malaysian food, enjoy traditional dance, musical theatre and performance."

"By strengthening the bonds between Tasmania and Malaysia across many sectors, we are building on an ongoing beneficial relationship to both regions."