Malaysian students share harrowing experiences in Bangladesh

The recent violent protests in Bangladesh have left a significant impact on the Malaysian students who were studying there. The situation escalated to such an extent that the Malaysian government had to step in to evacuate its citizens. This article delves into the harrowing experiences of these students, the challenges they faced, and the subsequent evacuation operation.

The protests in Bangladesh erupted over the reimposition of quotas on government jobs, which many students perceived as discriminatory. What started as peaceful demonstrations quickly spiraled into violent clashes, resulting in a nationwide curfew and a significant loss of life. According to reports, more than 100 people have been killed since the riots began.

Mohd Haziq Syahmi, a 33-year-old Malaysian medical student, described the terrifying atmosphere near his university. "Many were killed. Seven people were shot in my area. We were so scared," he recounted. The escalating violence made it impossible for students to access basic necessities. "Our money was depleting fast because we couldn’t withdraw from the ATMs. Food prices were skyrocketing and the locals were talking about an impending food crisis," he added.

Struggles with Communication and Safety

The situation was further exacerbated by an internet blackout that left students unable to communicate with their families or seek help. Syazanna Amira, a 28-year-old medical student, shared her experience of being cut off from the outside world. "The internet was cut off and we did not have WiFi for six days," she said. Despite these challenges, the students managed to contact the Malaysian High Commission in Dhaka, which played a crucial role in their eventual evacuation.

Syazanna also mentioned the grim scenes she witnessed on her way to the airport. "We saw burnt buses along the way to the Malaysian High Commission building in Dhaka and the airport," she said. The presence of military personnel and tanks added to the sense of fear and urgency among the students.

The Evacuation Operation

The Malaysian government, in coordination with the Bangladeshi authorities, organized a chartered AirAsia flight to evacuate the students. A total of 123 Malaysians, including 80 students, were flown back to Malaysia. Home Minister Saifuddin Nasution Ismail emphasized the importance of psychological support for the returning students, many of whom appeared visibly traumatized.

Fatihah Fadli, another Malaysian medical student, described the relief she felt upon returning home. "I’m so relieved to be back home," she said. The students were greeted by their families at Kuala Lumpur International Airport, where emotions ran high as they reunited after the ordeal.

Ongoing Support and Vigilance

While the majority of the students opted to return, some chose to stay back in Bangladesh to complete their studies. The Malaysian High Commission continues to monitor the situation closely and has urged those remaining to stay vigilant and maintain regular communication with the embassy.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim assured the public that the government is committed to the safety of its citizens abroad. "We will evacuate all of our students amid the worrying protests in Bangladesh," he stated, highlighting the government's proactive stance in ensuring the well-being of its nationals.