Vietnamese Ambassador to Malaysia Đinh Ngọc Linh (right) presents a Certificate of Merit to Trần Thi Chang (left), President of the Malaysia-Việt Nam Friendship Association, at the ceremony. VNA/VNS Photo

KUALA LUMPUR - The Malaysia-Việt Nam Friendship Association (MVFA), in coordination with the Vietnamese Embassy in Malaysia, held a ceremony in Kuala Lumpur on October 20 to celebrate the 10th founding anniversary of the women's union and the 8th anniversary of the Vietnamese language club in this Southeast Asian country.

The event attracted the attention of thousands of Vietnamese women living and working in Malaysia, with a highlight being a forum on “Protecting the rights and legal interests of Vietnamese women and children in Malaysia.”

In her opening remarks, MVFA President Trần Thị Chang noted that about 30% of more than 30,000 overseas Vietnamese people in the country are Vietnamese women married to local people. Most of these women are hardworking and successful, contributing positively to local society. However, many face unfortunate circumstances due to a lack of legal knowledge and language barriers.

When experiencing domestic violence, or being deceived, these women often suffer in silence or do not know how to protect their legal rights, thus MVFA invited lawyers and officials responsible for these issues in Malaysia to participate in the forum and address their questions. It also offered an opportunity to raise awareness among the attendees, helping them feel more confident and better integrate into local society, Chang added.

Other issues including domestic violence, labour exploitation, and sexual abuse in the workplace were also touched upon at the forum.

According to Hirdawati Mohd Isa, the police chief responsible for women and children's protection, Vietnamese women facing such issues should report to the nearest police station to receive protection and support from Malaysia's legal authorities.

Vietnamese Ambassador Đinh Ngọc Linh praised MVFA's initiative in organising the event, elaborating that it helped strengthen confidence and cohesion among women members and the Vietnamese community in Malaysia.

The diplomat said he hopes that MVFA will continue to promote its role in social activities, fostering connections and building a sustainable community while promoting gender equality.

He also affirmed that the embassy will always support and accompany MVFA as the Vietnamese community abroad is an integral part of the nation. VNS