The High Commission of Sri Lanka in Kuala Lumpur proudly hosted its Annual Iftar Programme on Friday, 14th March 2025, at the High Commission premises, marking a joyous occasion of communal harmony and fellowship. The event brought together around 200 distinguished guests, including members of the Sri Lankan Muslim community, Malaysian Muslim friends, representatives from the Malaysian Sinhalese Association, Sri Lankan Workers Welfare Association, the Malaysia-Sri Lanka Business Council, Malaysian-Indian Muslim friends, Sri Lankan Ulamas, and prominent Malaysian business figures.
The event commenced with the National Anthem of Sri Lanka, followed by the recitation of the Holy Quran (Kirath) by Al-Qari Mohamed Hameed Shafathullah (Al-Hashimi), the Imam from Al-Deeniya Mosque, City One Plaza, Malaysia. A sermon on the significance of Ramadan was delivered by Dr. Mohamed Shafeen Mohamed Ashath (PhD) in Comparative Religion from the International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM).
The President of the Sri Lankan Muslim Professionals and Business Association, Malaysia (SLAMP), Prof. (Dr.) Mohammad Ismath Ramzy, Universiti Malaya (UM), delivered a speech, expressing gratitude to the High Commission for organizing the Annual Iftar Programme. He highlighted the importance of such events in fostering unity among all Sri Lankan communities.
Acting High Commissioner Mohamed Rizvi appreciated the contributions of the Sri Lankan Muslim community to Sri Lanka’s export sector and sought their assistance in connecting with high-end and potential investors in Malaysia to collaborate with the High Commission in creating new opportunities. He also requested their support in promoting Sri Lankan tourism among the Malaysian community, emphasizing that people-to-people connections are a great asset in bridging the tourism sector.
The event concluded with the Maghrib prayers, followed by a delightful spread of Sri Lankan Muslim Iftar meals, including the renowned Ceylon Milk Tea and Ceylon Biryani.
As part of Public Diplomacy initiatives, the High Commission organizes major community events such as Vesak, Deepavali, Christmas, and Iftar, promoting community integration and unity among all Sri Lankans. These efforts aim to foster tolerance, compassion, and goodwill among diverse communities.