Growing Ties between Bangladesh and Malaysia: A New Era of Cooperation
KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 21 (Bernama) — Bangladesh’s High Commissioner to Malaysia, Md. Shameem Ahsan, highlighted the growing bilateral ties between Bangladesh and Malaysia during the 25-year celebration of International Mother Language Day and Martyrs’ Day.
A Model of Peaceful Coexistence
Ahsan acknowledged Malaysia as a model of peaceful coexistence among diverse linguistic communities and expressed optimism about further strengthening ties between the two nations. He recalled Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s visit to Bangladesh last October, where he met with Bangladesh’s Chief Adviser Dr. Muhammad Yunus, describing it as a pivotal moment for enhancing collaboration in various sectors, including information and communications technology (ICT), connectivity, and the halal industry.
Fostering People-to-People Ties
He stressed the importance of fostering people-to-people ties and noted Malaysia as a good model of peaceful coexistence of many language groups, demonstrating how countries with cultural diversity can be a unifying force rather than a divisive one. "Malaysia is a good example of how diversity can be a unifying factor. Language can serve as a powerful tool in fostering peace, harmony, and inclusivity," he said.
International Mother Language Day
Ahsan emphasised the deep historical and global significance of International Mother Language Day, highlighting its origins in the sacrifices made during the 1952 Language Movement in Bangladesh. He reminisced about how university students in then-East Pakistan (now Bangladesh) staged a peaceful protest to demand recognition of Bengali as one of the state languages. "The blood they shed for the right to our mother tongue ultimately transformed Bangladesh into an independent country. We have been observing this day with solemnity, as it is a day of sacrifice," he said.
Global Significance
Ahsan also mentioned Bangladesh’s pivotal role in gaining international recognition for the observance, with the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) declaring February 21 as International Mother Language Day in 1999. In 2008, the United Nations (UN) General Assembly further acknowledged the importance of International Mother Language Day through the Culture of Peace Resolution. "The importance of this declaration extends beyond Bangladesh. It applies to all nationalities and language-speaking communities worldwide. It reinforces the right of every individual, in every corner of the world, to speak their mother tongue," he added.
Event Details
The event in Kuala Lumpur saw participation from representatives of 12 different countries and was attended by the guest of honour, the Undersecretary of the South and Central Asia Division from Malaysia’s Foreign Ministry, as well as other dignitaries. The event also featured a panel discussion, a documentary screening in celebration of International Mother Language Day, and multilingual cultural performances by diplomatic missions and cultural organisations in Kuala Lumpur.
Call to Action
As the world commemorates International Mother Language Day, the High Commissioner urged the global community to protect endangered languages and promote linguistic diversity. The event called on Bangladeshis, especially those in the diaspora, to continue passing down their linguistic heritage to future generations.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the growing ties between Bangladesh and Malaysia, as well as the global significance of International Mother Language Day, serve as a reminder of the importance of promoting linguistic diversity and protecting endangered languages. As we move forward, it is crucial that we continue to foster people-to-people ties and promote a culture of peace, harmony, and inclusivity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the significance of International Mother Language Day?
A: International Mother Language Day is a significant day that commemorates the sacrifices made during the 1952 Language Movement in Bangladesh and recognizes the right of every individual to speak their mother tongue.
Q: What is the role of Bangladesh in gaining international recognition for the observance of International Mother Language Day?
A: Bangladesh played a pivotal role in gaining international recognition for the observance, with UNESCO declaring February 21 as International Mother Language Day in 1999, and the UN General Assembly further acknowledging its importance in 2008.
Q: What is the significance of Malaysia as a model of peaceful coexistence?
A: Malaysia is a good model of peaceful coexistence, demonstrating how countries with cultural diversity can be a unifying force rather than a divisive one. Language can serve as a powerful tool in fostering peace, harmony, and inclusivity.