Malaysian students offered choice to continue studies locally or return to Bangladesh, says minister

The recent unrest in Bangladesh has placed Malaysian students studying there in a precarious situation. Following violent protests triggered by a court decision to reinstate the quota for public sector jobs, the Malaysian government took swift action to ensure the safety of its citizens. As a result, 123 Malaysians, including 80 students, were evacuated from Bangladesh on a special flight on July 23, 2024, under the directive of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.

Higher Education Minister Datuk Seri Zambry Abd Kadir announced that these students now have the option to continue their studies in Malaysia or return to Bangladesh if conditions allow. "We will assess their current situation and the options they prefer, whether they want to continue their studies locally. However, we also need to consider their qualifications, status, and the subjects they are taking," he said during an engagement session at the World Conference on Islamic Thought and Civilisation (WCIT) 2024.

The ministry is committed to supporting the students without causing undue stress. This includes offering counseling and organizing meetings with ministry officers to help students understand their positions and make informed decisions about their academic futures. "We aim to support the students through this challenging time," Zambry emphasized.

Since July 1, thousands of students in Bangladesh have been protesting the court's decision to reinstate the public sector job quota, which had been abolished in 2018. The protests have resulted in over 130 deaths, prompting the Malaysian government to take decisive action to evacuate its citizens. The Higher Education Ministry, in cooperation with Wisma Putra, continues to monitor the safety of students who chose to remain in Bangladesh. These students are advised to maintain communication with the High Commission of Malaysia in Dhaka for updated information and necessary support.

The evacuated students are now faced with a significant decision. For those who choose to continue their studies in Malaysia, the ministry will facilitate their integration into local educational institutions. This process will involve assessing their academic qualifications and ensuring that their chosen subjects align with the curriculum offered by Malaysian universities.

On the other hand, students who wish to return to Bangladesh once the situation stabilizes will be supported in their transition back. The ministry will continue to engage with these students to ensure they have the necessary resources and support to resume their studies safely.

The recent evacuation underscores the Malaysian government's commitment to the safety and well-being of its citizens abroad. The Higher Education Ministry's proactive approach in offering flexible study options and providing comprehensive support highlights its dedication to ensuring that students can continue their education without unnecessary disruption.