Mr ANOULACK CHANTHIVONG (Macquarie Fields—Minister for Better Regulation and Fair Trading, Minister for Industry and Trade, Minister for Innovation, Science and Technology, Minister for Building, and Minister for Corrections) — Vale Dr Md. Rafiqul Islam. I am deeply saddened by the passing of respected community leader Dr Md. Rafiqul Islam. Dr Islam was a notable member of our local Bangladeshi community who contributed extensively to our local area. Dr Islam helped establish the Bangla School Inc Bardia in 2021, alongside his wife, Shawkat (Milie) Islam. Dr Islam served as President of the Bangla School Inc Bardia for many years. Dr Islam will be remembered for his dedication and service to our community. Dr Islam was also former President of Bongobondhu Parishab Australia. An intelligent, generous and kind-hearted man, Dr Islam contributed enormously to our community and will be greatly missed. A true pillar of the community, Dr Islam's thoughtful guidance and leadership helped shape and strengthen us all. I pay my respects and offer my deepest condolences to Dr Rafiqul Islam's wife Shawkat (Milie) Islam, their daughters Rumana and Rehnuma, grandchildren and extended family. May Dr Md. Rafiqul Islam rest in eternal peace.
11 November 2026

