The Bangladesh High Commission in the Maldives has honored key organizations and individuals for their contributions to the welfare of Bangladeshi expatriates, marking both International Migrants Day and National Expatriates Day 2025 with a commemorative program and discussion session.

At the event, honorary crests were presented to the Maldives Red Crescent and the International Organization for Migration (IOM) in recognition of their role in promoting the rights, safety, and well-being of migrant workers in the Maldives, a press release issued by the High Commission said.

A documentary highlighting Bangladesh–Maldives bilateral relations was screened, followed by a cake-cutting ceremony led by Dr. Md. Nazmul Islam, Bangladesh’s High Commissioner to the Maldives.

In his remarks, High Commissioner Islam described expatriates as a driving force behind Bangladesh’s development, noting the economy’s reliance on remittances earned through migrant workers’ efforts. He outlined initiatives taken by the High Commission to protect expatriates’ rights and welfare, including assistance to those affected by fraud, exploitation, and workplace vulnerabilities.

He also said efforts were under way to facilitate the deployment of more skilled and trained Bangladeshi workers to the Maldives in line with labor market demand, urging expatriates to respect local laws and maintain harmony with the host society.

The award on behalf of the Maldives Red Crescent was received by its Vice President Hood Ibrahim and Treasurer Yaasha Shareef, while Uraiba Asif, IOM’s Representative in the Maldives, accepted the crest on behalf of the UN migration agency.

Ishaq Musa also received a special recognition award for his long-standing and ethical role as an employer of Bangladeshi workers. The High Commission cited his inclusive employment practices, including the appointment of a Bangladeshi person with disabilities who is unable to speak or hear, describing the gesture as an example of compassion, social responsibility, and respect for migrant workers’ dignity.

Md. Imran Hossain and Md. Omar Faruk Khandaker received certificates of appreciation for their contributions to expatriate journalism and community engagement.

During the program, representatives read out messages from Bangladesh’s Chief Adviser, the Adviser for Foreign Affairs, the Adviser for the Ministry of Expatriates’ Welfare and Overseas Employment, and the Adviser for Home Affairs.

Members of the Bangladeshi expatriate community, including Ahmad Mottaki, Khalilur Rahman, Sajjat Hossain, and Alamgir Shikder, also addressed the gathering, sharing their views on migrant welfare, solidarity, and community unity.