KUALA LUMPUR : The High Commission of Sri Lanka in Kuala Lumpur hosted its Annual Iftar Programme 2026 at the Chancery premises on 13 March with the participation of over 150 invited guests in a warm and inclusive atmosphere. The gathering brought together Sri Lankan Muslim and non-Muslim professionals, Malaysian Muslim friends, members of the Malaysian Indian community, business leaders, and representatives from organizations including the Malaysia–Sri Lanka Business Council (MSLBC), Federation of Malaysia Sri Lanka Organisation (FOMSO), Sri Lanka Muslim Professionals and Business Association (SLAMP), Malaysian Sinhalese Association, and Shashana Abiwurdi Wardana Society, along with members of the wider Sri Lankan and Malaysian communities.
The event was further enriched by the presence of respected religious leaders, reflecting Sri Lanka’s strong tradition of interfaith harmony. Among them were the Chief High Priest of Malaysia, Most Venerable Kirinde Sri Dhammarathana Mahanayake Thero, Venerable Olukarande Revatha Thero, and Sri Lankan Muslim religious leaders. Their presence highlighted the spirit of coexistence and mutual respect that continues to define Sri Lanka’s multicultural identity.
The programme commenced with the recitation of the Holy Quran, followed by a brief address on the significance of Ramadan and its values of compassion, generosity, and reflection. Prayers were offered for peace, unity, and prosperity. Addressing the gathering, Acting High Commissioner Mr. M. I. Mohamed Rizvi emphasized the importance of strengthening community bonds and encouraged the Sri Lankan community in Malaysia to support Sri Lanka’s economic development by promoting trade, tourism, and investment opportunities.
He also invited participants to engage Malaysian partners and investors in the upcoming Sri Lanka Expo 2026 to be held in Colombo in June, as a platform to strengthen business linkages. Representatives of SLAMP also addressed the gathering, highlighting the importance of collective responsibility in both community and national development.
The evening concluded with the breaking of fast followed by a traditional Sri Lankan dinner, showcasing authentic cuisine and cultural hospitality. The programme served as a meaningful platform to strengthen people-to-people ties and reaffirm the shared values of harmony, goodwill, and peaceful coexistence between Sri Lanka and Malaysia.
