The SOHOM Coffee Morning, hosted by Madam Pandora Chowdhury, spouse of H.E. Mr. Md Shameem Ahsan, High Commissioner of Bangladesh to Malaysia was held at Bangladesh House on 24 February 2025.
Along with the members of the SOHOM (Spouses of the Heads of Missions in Malaysia), Lady Officers and Spouses of the Officers of Bangladesh High Commission were in attendance.
The Coffee Morning commenced with the welcome remarks by Madam Pandora Chowdhury. She warmly welcomed the distinguished members of SOHOM. Themed on the “Geographical Indication (GI) Products of Bangladesh”, Madam Pandora Chowdhury highlighted the unique geographical origin, traditional craftsmanship, and cultural significance of the Bangladesh’s GI products.
Later, H.E. Mr. Md Shameem Ahsan, High Commissioner of Bangladesh to Malaysia, addressed the gathering. In his speech, the High Commissioner commended the role of SOHOM in facilitating greater understanding and cultural exchanges among the communities. He touched on the current socio-economic-political transformation in Bangladesh including the July/August student-led mass uprising that paved the way for formation of the interim government under the leadership of Nobel Laureate Professor Muhammad Yunus. It followed a video on Vibrant Bangladesh and a power-point presentation by Ms. Labiba Khastagir, depicting the stunning achievements of Bangladesh in various sectors and its rich culture and heritage.
The ladies of the Bangladesh High Commission in Malaysia presented a majestic fashion show, “Wrapped in Tradition, Draped in Style”, highlighting diverse types of Bangladeshi sarees. A colourful dance performance was made by “Nrittyam”, a Bangladeshi dance troupe in Kuala Lumpur, portraying different types of wedding rituals. A Baul Song, an intangible cultural heritage of UNESCO from Bangladesh, followed it which was rendered by Ms. Farhana Chowdhury. Later, the guests were taken for a tour at the GI Products Corner where GI products were on display, most of which were brought from Bangladesh.
The products included, among others, Muslin from Dhaka, Jamdani Saree, Rajshahi Silk, Tangail Saree, Bangladesh Hilsa, Kataribhog Rice from Dinajpur, Kalijira Rice of Bangladesh, Shotoronji of Rangpur, Rasgolla of Gopalganj, Nakshi Kantha of Jamalpur, Khejur Gur (Date Molasses) of Jessore, Sada Mati (The White Clay) of Bijoypur, Shitalpati of Bangladesh, Rosmalai from Cumilla, Tiler Khaja of Kustia and Tulshimala Rice Sherpur.
Following the vibrant performances and projections, SOHOM and Mission ladies participated in a saree draping segment where with the help of High Commission ladies, the SOHOM ladies put on the sarees. The splendid display of Saree projected much enthusiasm and thrills among them as some guests also joined to have their first saree experience. There was a SOHOM raffle draw, and the lucky winners received traditional Bangladeshi gifts. Later, all joined the SOHOM family photo session. Ms. Farhana Ahmed Chowdhury, Minister (Political) of the Bangladesh High Commission conducted the event.
In closing, Madam Pandora Chowdhury sincerely thanked all for their gracious presence.
At the end, the invited guests were served with delicious traditional Bangladeshi cuisines.
