Business
Walton installs 1155 Access Control devices in Sonali Bank for hassle-free office attendance
The Assent Access Control device of the country’s leading tech product manufacturer Walton is being used on various branches of the state-owned Sonali Bank.
Walton is installing a total of 1155 Access Control devices in 1080 branches of Sonali Bank across the country, said a press release.
The Walton access control devices, which are marketed in ASSENT brand packaging, are being used to ensure hassle-free office attendance and also make the HR-related activities of the bank more accurate and swifter.
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An agreement between Walton Digi-Tech Industries Limited and Sonali Bank was inked in this regard last August. According to the agreement, Walton is providing and installing access control devices in various branches of Sonali Bank across the country.
Technology products of Walton including access control devices are being used in various government and private organizations of the country which helps in saving foreign currencies along with contributing to employment growth and the development of the domestic technology manufacturing industry.
At present, 4 models of Assent access control devices are available in the market. Of which, the WAC11 model is priced at Tk 6,715, WAC22 model Tk 11,007 and the WAC33 model is available at Tk 12,282. Walton has also launched another new model WAC34 in the market.
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The Walton Assent access control devices are designed with all the latest features including fingerprint, card punch and password. Device respond is less than 0.5 seconds and has the storage capacity for 3,000 users and 70,000 records. These access control devices have the facility to integrate HRMS software, payroll, attendance reports etc. The devices are featured with exit button, door magnet, reader interface, and Wigand input.
Walton access control device is designed with an API system for integration with any other HRMS or ERP software. In addition, these devices can be used in parallel with the access control devices already in use in any organization.
JICA seminar on ‘Private Sector Contribution to the SDGs’ held
The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) Bangladesh recently organised a seminar on “Private Sector Contribution to the SDGs” in Dhaka.
The event brought together 24 Japanese companies, eight Bangladeshi financial institutions/investors, and eight local startups in a quest to forge impactful partnerships driving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through their business in Bangladesh, according to a press release.
Bangladeshi startups, Light of Hope, Moner Bondhu, Women in Digital, Bioforge, Drishti, Wreetu, Wander Women, and Leatherina, showcased their SDG contributions on crucial areas like education, healthcare, environment, and women's empowerment. JICA introduced these visionaries to Japanese companies and Bangladeshi financial institutions, fostering potential collaborations for future sustainable ventures, it said.
Five Japanese companies also presented their activities related to the social development and achievement of SDGs in Bangladesh.
Ichiguchi Tomohide, chief representative of JICA Bangladesh office shared that JICA acknowledges the importance of nurturing local business entities that can balance profit and SDGs achievement for the consistent economic advancement of Bangladesh and JICA is actively involved in fostering the development of future businesses in Bangladesh with initiatives such as JICA's accelerator program, known as JICA Ninja (Next Innovation with Japan) held in 2021 and the ongoing Product Market Fit (PMF) trial, said the release.
Farhad Reza, CEO of National Advisory Board for Impact Investment in Bangladesh streteched the role of impact investment to achieve SDGs.
This seminar, a cornerstone of JICA's SDGs Business Support Programme, signified a pivotal stride in fostering dynamic Japanese-Bangladeshi collaborations. It not only serves as a platform for innovative partnerships but also champions sustainable initiatives, driving the shared vision of advancing the SDG agenda in Bangladesh and beyond, it added.
HSBC-BRAC to work for digital transformation in microfinance sector
The Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation Limited (HSBC) in Bangladesh has recently entered into a partnership with BRAC.
The signing ceremony, held at BRAC Centre in Dhaka recently, marks a significant step towards digitising BRAC's collection and disbursement processes for greater efficiency, according to a press release.
Gerard Haughey, country head of Wholesale Banking at HSBC Bangladesh, and Arinjoy Dhar, senior director of Microfinance signed the agreement on behalf of their respective organisations.
Leveraging HSBC's cutting-edge solutions, BRAC aims to streamline the retrieval of loan payments on a substantial scale. Through direct fund pull instructions via HSBC’s corporate online solution, individual requests for repayments are eliminated. Simultaneously, BRAC can efficiently disburse loans in bulk to borrowers through HSBC’s online and Host-to-Host connectivity solutions, the release said.
"Digital transformation is critical to revolutionize the way we empower our clients digitally and to drive financial inclusion. Advancing digital inclusion amongst our clients will enable them to move from a cash-economy to a digital economy. BRAC has always been an early adopter of innovative solutions to improve access to financial services for low-income and unbanked populations.Ensuring convenience for the clients has always been our top priority,” said Arinjoy Dhar.
“This solution will benefit our clients with a seamless transaction experience and will enable them to spend more time in income generating activities. The successful implementation of this project will mark a significant milestone in our efforts to empower communities to access financial services through digital solutions,” he added.
“HSBC has continued to invest in innovative cash management solutions across its international network, ensuring a robust and secured digital banking platform for its clients. We are confident that this solution will assist BRAC to achieve their short term and long term goals more efficiently and facilitate their digitalisation journey. Similarly, this HSBC proposition will pave the way for digitalisation for the microfinance industry of Bangladesh,” said Gerard Haughey.
Islami Bank bags Mastercard Excellence Award 2023
Islami Bank Bangladesh PLC has earned the “Excellence in Mastercard Prepaid Business (Domestic) Award 2022-2023” at the Mastercard Excellence Award 2023.
Abul Faiz Muhammad Kamaluddin, Deputy Managing Director of the Bank received the award from Atiur Rahman, former Governor of Bangladesh Bank in a function held at Radisson Blu Dhaka Water Garden Hotel recently, said a press release.
Read: BGMEA provides financial support to family of deceased garment worker
Helen LaFave, Charge d’Affaires at the US Embassy, Syed Mohammad Kamal, country manager, Mastercard Bangladesh, Md. Sharafat Ullah Kahan, director of Payment Systems Department at Bangladesh Bank, Nazim Uddin Talukdar; Mohammad Manzurul Haque, senior vice presidents, Md. Osman Gani Vice-president A.N.M. Tawhidul Islam, and Assistant vice presidents of Islami Bank were present, among others on the occasion, reads the release.
Kamran T Rahman elected MCCI president
Kamran Tanvirur Rahman has been elected as the president of the Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Dhaka (MCCI) for the year 2024.
The members of the Board of Directors unanimously elected him at the first meeting of the new Board held November 19, which was confirmed at the 119th Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the MCCI held on Thursday, according to a press release.
Kamran is the chairman and Managing Director of Kapna Tea Company Limited and Pubali Jute Mills Limited. He is also the chairman of Bangladesh Tea Association (BTA) for 2023-2025.
Kamran is an Independent director of Advanced Chemical Industries Limited (ACI) and its subsidiary companies. Mr. Rahman was the Senior Vice-President of Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Dhaka (MCCI) in 2022 and 2023. He was also the Vice-President of MCCI in 2013. He was the President of Bangladesh Employers’ Federation (BEF) in 2007-2009 and 2017-2021.
Kamran Rahman was a member (Employers’ Group) of the Governing Body of the International Labour Organization (ILO), Geneva, Switzerland for the terms, 2009-2012, 2012-2014 and 2014-2017.
Habibullah N Karim was elected as the new senior vice-President of the MCCI for the year 2024, the release said.
Karim is the MD and CEO of Technohaven Company Limited. He was also the president of Bangladesh Association of Software and Information Services (BASIS) in 2008-2009 and 2002-2003. He was the vice-President of Bangladesh Employers’ Federation in 2019-2021. He is also the immediate past Chairman of the International Blockchain Olympiad as well as the Co-founder and Coordinator of Blockchain Olympiad Bangladesh, it added.
Simeen Rahman was elected as the new MCCI vice president for the year 2024.
Simeen is the Group CEO of Transcom Limited. She is a board member of all companies under Transcom Group and presides over them with operational and management control. Transcom Limited is also a stakeholder in Mediaworld Limited (Publishers of the country’s leading English language newspaper - The Daily Star), Reliance Insurance Limited, National Housing Finance PLC, IDLC Finance Limited and Pubali Bank PLC, the release also said.
Simeen Rahman is also the MD and CEO of certain Transcom subsidiaries including the Eskayef Pharmaceuticals Ltd and Transcom Beverages Ltd. (Exclusive franchise of PepsiCo Beverages).
BGMEA President calls upon Gloria Jeans to increase souring garments from Bangaladesh
BGMEA President Faruque Hassan has called upon Gloria Jeans, a Russian high street retail giant, to consider expanding its sourcing of garments from Bangladesh, especially high-value and non-cotton items.
The BGMEA president made the call during a meeting with Moyeen Ahmed, regional general manager for Bangladesh and India at Gloria Jeans.
Also read: BGMEA provides financial support to family of deceased garment worker
The latter paid a courtesy visit to Faruque Hassan, president of Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA).
During the meeting, they discussed various mutual interests, with a focus on strengthening the collaborative relationship between Gloria Jeans and the Bangladeshi garment industry.
Faruque Hassan provided an insightful overview of the initiatives of Bangladesh’s garment industry to enhance manufacturing capabilities, particularly in the production of high-end products such as manmade fiber and technical textile-based garments.
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He highlighted the ongoing efforts of BGMEA to promote eco-friendly processes and the adoption of a circular economy model in the RMG industry of Bangladesh.
Gloria Jeans, a prominent Russian high street retail giant, has been actively sourcing garments from Bangladesh.
Also read: LafargeHolcim and BGMEA sign Mou for sustainable waste management
Realme offers discounts on smartphone display replacements
Realme has brought a “Screen Discount” offer for users, which can be availed of from authorised service centres. Discounts for display replacement for selected smartphone models are available under this offer.
Users can avail of discounts of up to 50 percent on smartphone display replacement. Customers can enjoy this offer at any service centre located around the country. Before visiting any particular outlet, customers are advised to check the availability of the display of certain models, according to a press release.
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To know about Realme service centre locations, customers can visit the following website: "https://www.realme.com/bd/support/services."
This offer is valid for the following models: realme 9 Pro 5G, realme 9i, realme C33, realme C21Y, realme C25-Y, realme C31, realme narzo 50A Prime, realme C35, realme C30, realme C25s, realme 8 5G, realme 6i, realme GT Neo2, realme C21, realme C20, realme narzo 50, realme 7i, realme C15 Qualcomm Edition, realme C17, realme C25, realme narzo 30A, realme C30s, realme narzo 20, realme C11, realme 5i, realme 7 Pro, realme 8, realme GT Master Edition, and realme C3.
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It is mentioned that this offer is valid for Realme’s official smartphones only. There is also an opportunity for the customers to use realme authorised collection points to send their devices to the realme authorised service centre, said the release.
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This offer began on November 13 and will remain valid until February 29, 2024.
Taxpayers’ number should reach one crore considering individual income: NBR Chairman
Up to 35 lakh people submit annual tax returns in the country even though the number should reach more than one crore given the individual income, said NBR Chairman Abu Hena Md Rahmatul Muneem on Thursday.
The number can be raised if the people having taxable income come forward as their responsibility to the country, he said. Tax officials cannot force everyone to submit income tax returns.
Muneem was speaking at a seminar on income tax returns, held at the NBR Building in Agargaon.
He said that many consider submitting income tax returns as a burden. Sometimes taxpayers feel that the government is collecting taxes unfairly.
“We want to maintain a good relationship with the taxpayers. We don’t want to scare taxpayers. We trust taxpayers, but taxpayers also have to keep that trust on us,” he added.
The NBR Chairman said TRP has been appointed to increase the number of income tax return filing. They will help the taxpayers on behalf of NBR.
“You will pay taxes to build a prosperous Bangladesh. Infrastructural development, including roads are getting the benefit of tax money. People should understand that,” he said.
Attorney General Abu Mohammad Amin Uddin was present as the chief guest at the seminar. Member of the tax policy department Shams Uddin Ahmed presented the keynote paper on 'New Income Tax Law and Tax Compliance in the seminar.
END/UNB/AI/F
US Embassy inaugurates 2nd cohort of 'Academy for Women Entrepreneurs' in Bangladesh
Stephen F. Ibelli, Public Affairs Counselor at the US Embassy, on Thursday inaugurated the second cohort of the Academy for Women Entrepreneurs (AWE) program at the EMK Center in Dhaka.
AWE, a global initiative led by the US Department of State, provides enterprising women with the knowledge, professional network, and foundational materials essential for launching and expanding successful businesses.
In collaboration with BRAC University’s Center for Entrepreneurship Development, US Embassy Dhaka is deeply committed to supporting young aspiring women entrepreneurs, promoting small and medium enterprises (SMEs), and nurturing local women business leaders, especially those from historically underrepresented communities, said the Embassy.
As a flagship program promoting entrepreneurship through increased trade, AWE aligns seamlessly with the US Strategy of Global Women’s Economic Security, which envisions a world where women and girls from diverse backgrounds can fully, meaningfully, and equally contribute to and benefit from global economic growth and prosperity, according to the US Embassy.
The second cohort of the AWE program is set to empower 90 participants from three distinct geographic locations: Dhaka, Chattogram, and Sylhet.
Participants from Chattogram and Sylhet will join sessions at the EMK Center virtually through Zoom.
The program's goal this year is to recruit participants from historically underrepresented, indigenous, and minority communities, as well as women aged 20-45 who have traditionally been excluded from participation in formal training programs.
As a US government exchange initiative, AWE connects women with American learning and expertise, fostering stronger ties among women entrepreneurs across diverse American and Bangladeshi markets.
The AWE Program is in collaboration with Arizona State University’s Thunderbird School of Global Management (ASU) and the Freeport-McMoRan Foundation, the creators of DreamBuilder—a no-cost online learning platform.
This platform imparts fundamental business skills from a US perspective and offers access to soft-skills training to enhance participants’ overall business acumen.
BGMEA provides financial support to family of deceased garment worker
Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA) has come forward with financial assistance to support the family of a readymade garment worker who died recently.
BGMEA President Faruque Hassan handed over the assistance cheque of Tk 5 lakh to the family of Md. Jalaluddin.
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BGMEA Senior Vice President S M Mannan (Kochi) and Vice President (Finance) Khandoker Rafiqul Islam were also present at the cheque handover ceremony held at the BGMEA Complex on Tuesday, a press release said.