Afghan-Born Doctor Honored Among Austria’s Finest

By Wakeel Attock 

In Vienna, a city renowned for its medical tradition, an Afghan doctor has become a symbol of excellence and perseverance. Abdul Razaq Malyar, a physician who has spent more than half a century in the service of medicine, was recently awarded the Aesculap Award by the Vienna Doctors’ Association (Ärztekammer Wien) — one of Austria’s most distinguished honors in the medical field.

The award, given this year to only three doctors across the entire country, recognizes decades of commitment to patient care and the advancement of medicine. For Malyar, the recognition is not only a personal milestone but also a moment of pride for the Afghan diaspora community in Austria and beyond.

Born in Afghanistan, Malyar built his medical career in Vienna, where he earned multiple diplomas — in microbiology, surgery, general medicine, family medicine, and emergency medicine. Over the years, he has combined scientific expertise with mentorship, training countless young physicians who later went on to open their own practices. His colleagues describe him not only as a skilled doctor but also as a teacher and guide who has shaped the medical careers of many.

Earlier this year, the University of Vienna honored him with the title of “Golden Doctor,” a rare accolade given to physicians whose careers have left a lasting impact on the medical community. Yet for Malyar, achievements have never been limited to the hospital or classroom. He also serves as a medical adviser to the Austrian President, providing counsel at moments when expertise and discretion are most needed.

Equally important has been his role in building bridges between cultures. Malyar founded an association of Afghan doctors in Vienna, uniting medical professionals from Afghanistan under one umbrella to demonstrate their contributions to Austrian society. In a city where more than 180 nationalities live side by side, his initiative has shown that Afghan doctors are not only part of the diaspora but also integral to the social and medical fabric of the host country.

For the Afghan diaspora in Vienna, his recognition carries profound symbolic weight. In a time when Afghanistan is often associated with conflict and crisis, Malyar’s story reflects a different narrative — one of resilience, achievement, and service to humanity. His awards are seen not just as personal accomplishments, but as collective victories for a community that has struggled to assert its place in the diaspora while maintaining ties to its roots.

With over fifty years devoted to medicine, Abdul Razaq Malyar embodies a legacy that bridges two worlds. His journey from Kabul to Vienna, from student to mentor, and now to one of Austria’s most celebrated doctors, offers both inspiration and pride. As the Afghan diaspora community in Vienna celebrates his achievements, they also hold him up as a reminder: that despite adversity, Afghan diaspora continue to contribute, excel, and leave their mark on the host country. 

Afghan poet Wakeel Attock previously served as the director of culture for the eastern provinces of Laghman and Nooristan. 

 Note: The contents of the article are of sole responsibility of the author. Afghan Diaspora Network will not be responsible for any inaccurate or incorrect statement in the articles.