We are the Dawoodi Bohra community of Malaysia
The Malaysian Dawoodi Bohras’ forefathers manifested a similar tenacity when they first arrived in Malaya from Gujarat in 1850. Extant records remark upon the Dawoodi Bohras as seasonal traders during the early 1900s with the largest settlement in Klang followed by Penang. From humble beginnings where community members lived above their small retail stores in Penang to flourishing culturally and economically in their new homeland, they have made a name for themselves in Malayan society.
Staying true to their unique Islamic and Indian cultural roots, embracing values of their new home, adhering to family life, engaging in businesses and hoping for a prosperous future even through times of war and hardships, the Dawoodi Bohras have carved out a unique legacy in Malaysia.
“The foundations of a building ought to be in accordance with the kind of structure one intends to build. The Petronas Towers in Malaysia are at present the highest Twin Towers in the world and its foundations, the deepest.”
– His Holiness Syedna Mufaddal Saifuddin
The iconic 88-storey Petronas Twin Towers is the most recognisable landmark in Malaysia, and it symbolises strength, courage, and the country’s modernity. The Malaysian Dawoodi Bohras’ forefathers manifested a similar tenacity when they first arrived in Malaya from Gujarat in the 1850s. Extant records show the Dawoodi Bohras as seasonal traders during the early 1900s with the largest settlement in Klang followed by Penang.
From humble beginnings where community members lived above their small retail stores in Penang to flourishing culturally and economically in their new homeland, they have made a name for themselves in Malayan society.
The 51st Dai, His Holiness Dr Syedna Taher Saifuddin was the first Dai to visit the country in 1953 where he met with community members and visited their homes and business establishments in Klang, Penang, Kuala Lumpur and Alor Setar. His son and successor, the 52nd Dai His Holiness Dr Syedna Mohammed Burhanuddin visited the country twice, in 1979 and 1997.
During both visits, His Holiness was warmly received by various dignitaries including the Sultan of Kedah, Prime Minister Tunku Abdul Rahman and the Governor of Penang, among others. He was also invited to speak at cultural events and visited community members’ homes and business setups. The current leader, His Holiness Syedna Mufaddal Saifuddin visited the country in 2018 where he inaugurated the community’s newly built masjid in Kuala Lumpur, the community’s first masjid in the city.
Today, Malaysia is home to more than 170 Dawoodi Bohra families who have made advancements both in business and professional careers, coming to the forefront in establishments that once recruited them. Community members are also leading professionals in the fields of law, medicine, engineering and the IT sector.
You are invited to contact us for more information on the Dawoodi Bohra community in Malaysia and to arrange a visit to see our masjid.
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