Bangladesh’s High Commissioner to Malaysia, Monzurul Karim Khan Chowdhury, has formally urged Malaysian authorities to address the legal status of undocumented Bangladeshi workers residing in the country. The appeal was made during a courtesy meeting with Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim on Monday, 23 February, held in conjunction with an Iftar gathering organised by Malaysia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
The meeting brought together foreign diplomats, government officials, and community representatives. During the discussion, High Commissioner Chowdhury emphasised the growing importance of regularising undocumented Bangladeshi workers to ensure their legal protection, facilitate employment, and strengthen bilateral relations between Bangladesh and Malaysia.
In his speech at the Iftar event, Prime Minister Anwar highlighted Malaysia’s commitment to multiculturalism, interfaith harmony, and mutual respect. He stressed that the nation’s stability depends on citizens embracing each other as members of a single family, regardless of race or religion. “Mutual respect and empathy are the foundation of national cohesion,” he said, adding that Malaysia’s strength lies in its diversity, which forms the backbone of unity.
The Prime Minister cited examples of harmonious cultural and religious celebrations across the country, such as Chinese New Year, Pongal, and the ongoing Ramadan. He noted that in a remarkable gesture of inclusivity, a Chinese community event was scheduled earlier than usual to accommodate Muslim fasting practices. Similarly, he attended formal rituals at the Thaipusam festival to demonstrate respect for the Hindu community.
Anwar Ibrahim further reassured foreign diplomats that Malaysia’s multi-ethnic population—including Malays, Chinese, Indians, Ibans, and Kadazans—coexists peacefully, and preserving this unity is crucial for the country’s future stability. “Maintaining inter-communal harmony is not just a moral duty but a strategic necessity for Malaysia’s prosperity,” he stated.
High Commissioner Chowdhury also highlighted the strengthening diplomatic relations between Bangladesh and Malaysia. During the meeting, he specifically requested that undocumented Bangladeshi workers be granted legal status, emphasising the benefits for both the workers and host nation.
Malaysia’s Key Multicultural Celebrations
| Festival/Event | Community | Key Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Chinese New Year | Chinese | Adjusted schedule for Muslim participants during Ramadan |
| Pongal | Tamil | Harvest celebration promoting community bonding |
| Ramadan | Muslim | Nationwide observance, inclusive planning for other communities |
| Thaipusam | Hindu | Prime Minister attended rituals to show respect |
The Iftar gathering served as both a platform for diplomatic engagement and a demonstration of Malaysia’s commitment to cultural inclusivity. Prime Minister Anwar’s messages of unity, tolerance, and mutual respect underline the direction in which Malaysia seeks to lead its multi-ethnic society, ensuring a stable and harmonious future.