Kuala Lumpur, 25th February – The Bangla Press Club Malaysia organized a discussion meeting on Martyrs’ Day and International Mother Language Day at the Impiana KLCC Hotel in Kuala Lumpur.
During the event, the speakers highlighted that Bangladesh gained independence in 1971 after 21 years of struggle from 1952 to 1971, led by Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. The discussion focused on the importance of upholding the proper practice, usage, culture, and traditions of the Bengali language for the further development of the country and to enhance the image of Bangladesh in the world. The speakers also emphasized the significance of establishing a Bengali medium school under the initiative of the Bangladesh High Commission in Malaysia and ensuring the use of Bengali in educational research.
The event began with the recitation of the Holy Quran, special prayers for the souls of language martyrs, and the performance of the national anthems of Bangladesh and Malaysia. ASM Zahidur Rahman, First Secretary (Labor) of the Bangladesh High Commission in Malaysia, spoke as the chief guest in the discussion meeting. He expressed his pride as a Bengali and the significance of the sacrifices made for their mother tongue.
The discussants, including Prof. Dr. Chaidur Rahman of Sunway University, CIP, Prof. Dr. Ahsanul Haque of International Islamic University Malaysia, Prof. MA Hannan of Universiti Tenega National Malaysia, Director of Dutch-Bangla Chamber of Commerce and Industries Lion Haroon Or Rashid, and University of Kelantan, highlighted the importance of education and research in the Bengali language.
The discussion meeting was moderated by Pavel Sarwar, President of the Youth Hub, and the closing remarks were given by Ahmedul Kobir, President of the Bangla Press Club Malaysia.
Bangla Press Club Malaysia honored Bangladeshi expatriates in Malaysia who are contributing in various fields and enhancing the image of Bangladesh. Prominent business community leader Datshri Kamaruzzaman Kamal, businessman and philanthropist Mintu Mahfuz and Md. Kawsar Hossain, student Brishti Khatun, Mishair Raihan Chowdhury, Mohammad Faizal, Fairiz, and cricketer Sheikh Zahid Ahmed were recognized.
Sumaiya Zafrin Chowdhury was awarded for her contribution to women’s empowerment, and Dr. Laila Nahar, Dr. Ahsanul Haque, Dr. Chaidur Rahman CAP, and Dr. Tariqul Islam were awarded for their contribution to education and research.
Representatives from the Malaysian Language and Literature Institute and companies such as MAISHA GROUP, CBL MONEY TRANSFER, NBL MONEY TRANSFER, and YOUTH HUB provided full support to make the seminar a success. The cover of the mother tongue issue of “Prabas” magazine, a publication of Bangla Press Club Malaysia, was also unveiled during the event.
The Bangla Press Club Malaysia aims to promote the Bengali language and culture, foster a sense of community among Bangladeshi expatriates, and highlight the achievements of Bangladesh and its people to the world.
Pavel Sarwar here, President, Youth Hub