United News of Bangladesh

The Centre for Policy Dialogue (CPD) on Wednesday urged the newly elected government to enforce strict macroeconomic discipline and fast-track structural reforms. It warned that without decisive policy action the ongoing recovery of Bangladesh’s economy could remain fragile amid persistent inflation, weak private investment and financial sector stress. Presenting a paper titled “Bangladesh Economy: Trends, Challenges, and Policy Priorities for the Newly Elected Government” at a roundtable held at BRAC Inn Centre in the city, CPD Executive Director Dr Fahmida Khatun said the country stands at a ‘critical juncture’ as it prepares for LDC graduation in November 2026 and navigates a post-election transition. Improved law and order seen key to cutting business costs: DCCI The event, titled “Looking into Bangladesh’s Development: Priority for the Newly Elected Government in the Short to Medium Term,” was organised by CPD. According to the presentation, real GDP growth declined to 3.49 percent in FY2025 from 4.2 percent in FY2024, reflecting macroeconomic pressures and subdued investment. However, growth rebounded to 4.50 percent in the first quarter of FY2026, up from 2.58 percent in the corresponding period a year earlier, indicating a gradual recovery in economic activity. Inflationary pressure has eased somewhat. Inflation fell to 8.66 percent in January 2026 from 9.7 percent in June FY2024, driven mainly by a slowdown in food inflation, which dropped to 7.79 percent. However, wage growth remained stagnant at 8.12 percent in January 2026, continuing to exert pressure on household purchasing power, it said. Private sector credit growth dropped to a record low of 6.10 percent in December 2025, underscoring persistent weakness in private investment. In contrast, net government credit growth surged to 32.19 percent in December 2025, reflecting increased reliance on bank borrowing to finance fiscal needs. Revenue mobilisation remains a major concern. In FY2025, the tax-to-GDP ratio fell to 6.78 percent and the revenue-to-GDP ratio to 7.81 percent. At the same time, the total debt-to-GDP ratio increased to 38.61 percent, driven by rises in both domestic and external debt. Besides, total revenue growth reached 17.74 percent during July-September FY2026, signalling a positive shift compared to the same period of the previous fiscal year.  Operating expenditure growth remained above 11 percent, while development expenditure showed volatility. The paper highlighted growing stress in the banking sector. The non-performing loan (NPL) ratio rose sharply from 12.56 percent in June 2024 to 35.73 percent in September 2025, largely due to the adoption of internationally aligned loan classification standards. Although the NPL ratio declined to 30.60 percent in December 2025 following extensive loan rescheduling, CPD warned that underlying governance weaknesses need urgent attention. Meanwhile, the advance-deposit ratio declined to 78.3 percent and the liquidity coverage ratio improved to 185.3 percent, indicating improved short-term liquidity conditions. Export performance weakened during July-January FY2026, recording a negative year-on-year growth of 1.93 percent, mainly due to a slowdown in readymade garment shipments. Import payments grew by 3.91 percent over the same period, driven primarily by higher imports of intermediate goods. However, remittance inflows stood at $19.43 billion during July-January FY2026, marking a robust 21.76 percent year-on-year increase. Foreign exchange reserves provided 5.6 months of import cover as of December FY2026, with gross reserves reaching $30.36 billion as of February 26. Fahmida outlined five broad policy priorities for the short to medium term— 1. Containing inflation: Ensure coordinated monetary and fiscal discipline, stabilise the exchange rate, address supply bottlenecks and expand targeted social protection. 2. Reviving private investment: Improve access to finance for productive sectors, invest in infrastructure and skills, ensure regulatory predictability and strengthen capital markets. 3. Strengthening fiscal discipline: Broaden the tax base, accelerate digitalisation of revenue systems, enhance tax administration and prioritise high-impact development spending. 4. Restoring banking sector confidence: Deepen financial sector reforms, resolve NPLs through time-bound strategies, safeguard the independence of the central bank and strengthen oversight and transparency. 5. Enhancing external resilience: Promote export diversification beyond readymade garments, provide targeted support to emerging sectors and proactively implement a smooth transition strategy ahead of LDC graduation. CPD said that sustained macroeconomic discipline, institutional reforms and policy consistency will be critical to restoring investor confidence, safeguarding stability and steering Bangladesh towards inclusive and resilient growth in the coming years.

Bangladesh High Commissioner to the United Kingdom Abida Islam has said Prime Minister Tarique Rahman envisions a nation built on economic and social inclusion, with the ambitious goal of transforming Bangladesh into a trillion-dollar economy. A cornerstone of this strategy is the ‘Family Card’ scheme, which she cited as a prime example of social inclusion designed to advance women’s rights. The High Commissioner emphasised that the government, led by Tarique Rahman, is firmly committed to upholding democracy, the rule of law and human rights through its vision for an inclusive nation. Speaking at a panel titled ‘Bangladesh Election: What Next?’, the High Commissioner explained that the ‘Bangladesh First’ policy focuses on maintaining friendly relations with all nations while strictly safeguarding Bangladesh’s sovereignty and national interests. She said the government is dedicated to implementing meaningful changes to improve the lives of all Bangladeshis, said the Bangladesh High Commission in London. The High Commissioner pointed out that on reforms there are many similarities between the BNP’s election manifesto and the July Charter. She described the country’s recent national parliamentary election as a definitive milestone in its democratic history. The discussion, organised by the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA), took place on Tuesday in a committee room of the British Parliament. Chaired and moderated by British MP Apsana Begum, the panel featured distinguished speakers, including Baroness Winterton, UK Trade Envoy for Bangladesh, Chietigj Bajpaee, Senior Research Fellow for South Asia at Chatham House; and Sohela Nazneen, Senior Research Fellow at the Institute of Development Studies (IDS). The event was attended by prominent figures, including former Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn, MP Rupa Huq, as well as leading journalists and human rights activists. Baroness Winterton congratulated Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on his new role, affirming the UK’s eagerness to strengthen trade relations. Reflecting on her recent visit to the country, she said Bangladesh’s immense growth potential is best achieved within a stable democratic environment. Regarding the repatriation of assets allegedly laundered from Bangladesh to the UK, Baroness Winterton confirmed that the British government is providing active support on the matter. Given the political climate, Chietigj Bajpaee said, the BNP’s electoral victory was widely anticipated.  

Finance Adviser Dr Salehuddin Ahmed on Monday said that Bangladesh’s economy remains largely stable despite significant challenges, emphasising that sustained reforms, stronger institutions and political commitment from the next government are key for long-term growth. “The economy was at the verge of collapsing. We are managing the situation, but the challenges are real and require careful and consistent policy support,” he said. Speaking at a discussion meeting in the capital titled ‘Macroeconomic Insights: An Economic Reform Agenda for the Elected Government’ held at a hotel in the capital this afternoon, he said the country has managed to maintain overall macroeconomic stability amid multiple domestic and global pressures. He, however, warned that the challenges remain serious and should not be underestimated. The Policy Research Institute of Bangladesh (PRI) and Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) of the Australian Government jointly organised the event. Presided over by Chairman of the PRI Dr. Zaidi Sattar, Dr KAS Murshid, Former Director General of Bangladesh Institute of Development Studies (BIDS), Clinton Pobke, Deputy High Commissioner, High Commission of Australia to Bangladesh, spoke as special guests. Dr Ashikur Rahman, Principal Economist, PRI, made the keynote presentation.Dr Fahmida Khatun, Executive Director, Centre for Policy Dialogue (CPD), Dr M Masrur Reaz, Chairman and CEO, Policy Exchange Bangladesh (PEB), spoke as distinguished panelists. Dr Salehuddin noted that Bangladesh has shown resilience in the face of post-pandemic disruptions, geopolitical tensions, energy price volatility and tighter global financial conditions. He said prudent macroeconomic management has helped the country navigate a difficult period without slipping into a deeper crisis. Referring to inflationary pressure, balance of payments constraints and fiscal stress, the adviser said such issues are not unique to Bangladesh. “Many countries are going through similar problems. What matters most is how we respond through reforms and institutional strengthening,” he added. He said the interim government has prioritised stabilising the macroeconomy, maintaining fiscal discipline, managing foreign exchange pressures and ensuring that essential economic activities continue without major disruption. “We have tried to take balanced decisions so that the economy continues to function while also protecting vulnerable groups,” he said. Highlighting revenue mobilisation as a major concern, Dr Salehuddin pointed out that Bangladesh’s tax-to-GDP ratio remains very low compared to peer economies. He said this limits the government’s ability to finance development and public services. “It is extremely difficult to run a modern state with such a low level of revenue collection,” he said, stressing the need for comprehensive tax reforms, expansion of the tax base and improved compliance. The adviser also underscored institutional weaknesses and poor coordination among agencies as key barriers to reform implementation. “We write reports and make recommendations, but implementation remains the hardest part,” he observed, adding that strengthening institutions is far more challenging than drafting policies. He said without strong and accountable institutions, even well-designed policies fail to deliver the expected outcomes, emphasising the need for political consensus to carry forward meaningful reforms. Dr Salehuddin described the banking sector as one of the weakest areas of the economy, citing governance problems, high levels of non-performing loans and lack of accountability as factors that have eroded public confidence over the years. “These problems have accumulated over a long time. Fixing them will require time, strong oversight and political courage,” he said. On public expenditure, he stressed the importance of prioritisation, noting that limited resources require careful selection of projects and spending areas. “Everything cannot be done at once. We must decide what matters most for the country and move forward accordingly,” he said. The adviser said the government has tried to avoid populist measures and instead focus on maintaining stability and ensuring long-term sustainability. “Policy-making is never easy. Every decision involves trade-offs,” he added. He acknowledged that public expectations from the government remain high but warned that unrealistic expectations can create additional pressure. “Economic recovery and reform require patience, consistency and continuity,” he said. Dr Salehuddin also highlighted the importance of private sector development, saying entrepreneurs, like farmers, are hardworking and capable but need proper incentives, access to finance and a predictable policy environment to invest and expand. “The government must support productive investment and create conditions where businesses can grow.” He noted that Bangladesh has made significant progress over the years in poverty reduction, infrastructure development, export growth and improvements in social indicators, adding that these achievements provide a strong foundation for future advancement. Looking ahead, he said the next elected government will have to focus on deep structural reforms, strengthening governance, improving revenue collection, restoring discipline in the financial sector and enhancing policy coordination. “The next government must take tough decisions. There is no alternative to reform if we want sustainable growth and stability,” he said. Expressing optimism, the finance adviser said Bangladesh has the capacity to overcome its current challenges. “We have resilient people, a hardworking workforce and strong potential. With the right policies and political commitment, we can move forward.” He urged all stakeholders to act in the broader national interest and support necessary reforms, saying the country’s future depends on collective efforts rather than any single government or group.  

Bangladesh’s economic growth is expected to rebound to 4.7 percent in both FY26 and FY27 following a recent slowdown but the economy continues to face mounting macro-financial challenges, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has said. The IMF’s assessment came after its Executive Board completed the Article IV Consultation for Bangladesh recently. The authorities have consented to the publication of the Staff Report prepared for the consultation, it said on Thursday. According to the IMF, Bangladesh’s GDP growth slowed to 3.7 percent in FY25 from 4.2 percent in FY24 and 5.8 percent in FY23, reflecting production disruptions during the popular uprising, a tighter policy mix, and sluggish private investment. Inflation, though easing from double-digit levels earlier in FY25, remained elevated at 8.2 percent year-on-year in October. The IMF noted that tax revenue collection weakened significantly in FY25, with the tax-to-GDP ratio falling sharply. However, the fiscal deficit was contained due to under-execution of capital and social spending. Foreign exchange reserves have started to rebuild, supported by improvements in the current account balance. Looking ahead, the IMF said the economy is expected to recover gradually over the medium term, provided policies are implemented to mobilise tax revenue and address financial sector vulnerabilities. Growth is projected to gradually accelerate to around 6 percent over the medium term, while inflation is expected to remain high at 8.9 percent in FY26 before easing to around 6 percent in FY27. However, risks to the outlook remain tilted to the downside, mainly due to potential delays or inadequacies in policy implementation, reversals in exchange rate reforms, and weakening fiscal discipline, the IMF warned. In its Executive Board assessment, IMF Directors acknowledged the interim authorities’ efforts to stabilise the economy following the 2024 uprising and ahead of upcoming national elections. At the same time, they stressed that Bangladesh faces serious macroeconomic and financial challenges, including weak revenue mobilisation, banking sector vulnerabilities, incomplete implementation of the new exchange rate framework, and persistently high inflation. The Directors emphasised the need for decisive and sustained policy actions, noting that bold fiscal and financial reforms are essential to restore macroeconomic stability and support long-term development. They also highlighted that full ownership of the IMF-supported programme by the new administration would be critical, along with early engagement with IMF staff and efforts to secure stakeholder support. On fiscal policy, the IMF urged the authorities to undertake ambitious tax reforms, simplify the tax system, and strengthen tax administration and compliance. The Directors also underscored the importance of rationalising subsidies, prioritising growth-enhancing investments, improving public financial and investment management, and strengthening social safety nets to promote inclusive growth. Improving the financial viability of energy state-owned enterprises was also flagged as a priority. The IMF further stressed the urgent need for a credible banking sector reform strategy aligned with international standards. This should include comprehensive asset quality reviews of systemic and state-owned banks, estimates of undercapitalisation, clearly defined fiscal support, and legally robust restructuring and resolution plans. Strengthening risk-based supervision, governance, and balance sheet transparency was also emphasised. On monetary policy, the Directors agreed that maintaining a tight policy stance is necessary to rebuild foreign exchange reserves and reduce inflation. They stressed the importance of fully and consistently implementing exchange rate reforms and allowing greater exchange rate flexibility, while cautioning against unsecured liquidity support to weak banks. Monetary policy, they said, should remain tight until inflation is firmly on a downward trajectory. The IMF also underscored the need for comprehensive structural reforms to unlock Bangladesh’s economic potential as it prepares to graduate from least developed country (LDC) status. Priority areas include strengthening governance and transparency, enhancing anti-corruption and AML/CFT frameworks, ensuring central bank autonomy, creating jobs—particularly for the youth—and promoting export diversification. Continued reforms under the Resilience and Sustainability Facility (RSF) were seen as key to building climate resilience and mobilising climate finance.        

Inward remittances to Bangladesh have crossed the $2 billion mark in the first 18 days of January, signaling the possibility of just the third time inward remittances cross $3 billion in a month. According to the Bangladesh Bank, expatriate Bangladeshis sent $2.04 billion in the first 18 days of the new year. This figure marks a significant surge compared to the same period of last year, which saw an inflow of $1.20 billion representing an increase of approximately $833 million year-on-year. The central bank officials are optimistic that January could challenge previous milestones. Currently, the highest monthly remittance in Bangladesh's history stands at $3.29 billion, recorded in March of the FY2024–25, driven largely by Eid festivities. Read More: Bangladesh sees $1.12bn in remittances in first 10 days of January The second-highest record was recently set in December of FY2025-26, which saw an inflow of $3.22 billion, overtaking the previous runner-up record of $2.97 billion from May last year. The central bank data revealed that the highest remittance of $3.29 billion was received in March of the FY2024-25, which was a record. The total remittances in the entire fiscal year (FY2024-25) stood at $30.33 billion—26.8 percent more than the previous year. Financial analysts suggest that the stability of the exchange rate and streamlined banking channels are contributing to this robust growth in foreign exchange inflows.

Bangladesh’s medium-term economic outlook has improved, with growth expected to strengthen steadily over the next two fiscal years, according to the World Bank’s latest Global Economic Prospects report. The report revised up its projections for Bangladesh, forecasting economic growth of 4.6 percent in FY25-26, rising further to 6.1 percent in FY26-27. The upward revision reflects strengthening private consumption amid easing inflationary pressures, alongside expectations of higher industrial activity and investment. Reduced political uncertainty following the general election and anticipated structural reforms by the new government are also expected to support industrial expansion and faster public spending, said the report. Compared with the World Bank’s June projections, growth for FY 26-27 has been revised up by 0.3 percentage points, driven largely by Bangladesh and better-than-expected performance in several other economies. Read More: World Bank approves $1.16 billion for Bangladesh At the global level, the World Bank noted that the economy is proving more resilient than previously anticipated despite trade tensions and policy uncertainties. Global growth is projected to ease to 2.6 percent in 2026, before edging up to 2.7 percent in 2027, largely due to stronger than expected growth in major economies, particularly the United States. However, it warned that the 2020s could become the weakest decade for global growth since the 1960s if current trends persist. Global inflation is expected to decline to 2.6 percent in 2026, reflecting softer labour markets and lower energy prices. Indermit Gill, World Bank Group’s Chief Economist, said slower growth combined with record public and private debt levels could strain finances and credit markets. The report emphasised the need for governments to liberalise investment and trade, rein in public consumption, and invest in technology and education to avoid stagnation and rising unemployment. Growth in developing economies is projected to slow slightly to 4 percent in 2026 from 4.2 percent in 2025, before picking up to 4.1 percent in 2027. Read More: Government seeks World Bank, IFC support for ongoing, future programmes: Finance Adviser Low-income countries are expected to record stronger growth, averaging 5.6 percent over 2026–27, supported by firm domestic demand, recovering exports, and moderating inflation. Despite this, per capita income growth in developing economies will remain insufficient to narrow the gap with advanced economies, projected at just 3 percent in 2026, about one percentage point below the 2000–2019 average. The report also highlighted rising fiscal pressures in developing countries, with public debt reaching its highest level in more than 50 years. M Ayhan Kose, Deputy Chief Economist of the World Bank, said restoring fiscal credibility through well-designed fiscal rules is crucial but requires strong institutions, credible enforcement, and sustained political commitment.

Bangladesh’s economy is ending the year on a divided note, with hard-won stability in the external sector offset by a deepening crisis of confidence at home, as weak investment, soaring bad loans and political uncertainty continue to restrain growth. Analysts say decisive policy actions have helped calm foreign exchange markets and rebuild reserves, but the broader economy remains trapped in a cycle of high inflation, tight credit and a fragile banking system, delaying any meaningful recovery. The taka has strengthened markedly after touching Tk132 per US dollar under the previous administration, now trading near Tk122.  Authorities have tightened oversight on money laundering and intensified action against illegal hundi networks, driving more remittances through formal channels. Remittance inflows grew 27 percent in the last fiscal year and remained robust at more than 17 percent through November 2025, according to economist Mamun Rashid.  As a result, he said, net foreign exchange reserves have rebounded sharply, rising from a precarious $17 billion to nearly $28 billion, with gross reserves exceeding $32 billion. The stronger reserve position has allowed the government to clear a significant portion of its external liabilities, easing pressure on the balance of payments and improving Bangladesh’s standing with international lenders and investors. Bangladesh economy under pressure despite signs of gradual rebound: Report Yet the gains on the external front contrast sharply with mounting stress within the domestic banking system.  As governance failures of the previous government come into clearer view, non-performing loans have surged to unprecedented levels, said Dr Zahid Hussain, former chief economist of the World Bank’s Dhaka office. Bad loans, which stood at Tk1.82 lakh crore at the end of the Awami League’s tenure, have ballooned to Tk6.44 lakh crore in just 15 months — an increase of Tk4.63 lakh crore.  Although deposit inflows have improved slightly, liquidity remains strained, prompting banks to adopt an ultra-cautious lending approach that has left even established businesses struggling to access credit. Political uncertainty ahead of the national election has further dampened sentiment, pushing both local and foreign investors into a wait-and-see mode.  Private sector credit growth has collapsed to a record low of 0.67 percent, down from 9.1 percent a year earlier, stalling job creation and business expansion. Bangladesh economy rebounds strongly in latter half of FY25: WB Compounding the problem is a persistent erosion of confidence, with sporadic mob violence and targeted attacks on institutions unsettling the business community, economists say. In its battle against inflation, the central bank has maintained a contractionary monetary stance for four consecutive years, driving interest rates sharply higher — from around 8–9 percent to as much as 12–18 percent. While headline inflation has eased from a peak of 11.66 percent to 8.29 percent, the relief has yet to reach most households. Stagnant wages and elevated food and energy prices have depleted savings among low-income families, pushing many deeper into debt. The outlook for exports remains cautious. Imports of raw materials used in export-oriented industries fell 14 percent, raising concerns about weaker shipments in the months ahead. At the same time, higher imports of industrial machinery point to some investment in future capacity, offering a limited source of optimism. Bangladesh economy grows faster in September as PMI rises to 59.1: Report Economists also warn that IMF-backed tax increases have added to consumer pressures, while revenue mobilisation continues to fall short of targets. Looking ahead, policymakers face twin challenges: ensuring political stability during the election period and pushing through long-delayed banking sector reforms.  Analysts say the real economic payoff from recent stabilisation efforts will only materialise if the transition to a new government is smooth and investor confidence is decisively restored.    

The October reading of the Bangladesh Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) gained 2.7 points from the previous month to post a faster expansion rate at 61.8. This latest PMI reading was attributed to a faster expansion rate for all the key sectors of agriculture, manufacturing, construction and services. “The latest PMI readings indicate that the overall Bangladesh economy continued to expand, primarily driven by favourable crop conditions and expectations of a good harvest in the agricultural sector,” said Dr M Masrur Reaz, Chairman and CEO, Policy Exchange Bangladesh.                                                                                        Other sectors of the economy also posted faster expansion rates, going into the final quarter of the year, with monthly growth in exports and inflation gradually waning, he said on Sunday (9th November 2025). Read more: Economic Affairs Committee okays import of crude oil Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MCCI), Dhaka and Policy Exchange Bangladesh (PEB) released the Bangladesh Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) October report on Sunday. The PMI is a pioneering initiative that aims to offer timely and accurate insights into the country's economic health to help businesses, investors and policy makers make informed decisions. It was developed by MCCI and Policy Exchange, with support from the UK Government and technical support from Singapore Institute of Purchasing & Materials Management (SIPMM). The agriculture sector posted its 2nd month of expansion, and at a faster rate. The sector posted faster expansion readings for the indexes of new business, business activity, and input costs, and the employment index reverted to an expansion reading. The order, however, backlogs index posted a faster contraction rate. Read more: Govt laid foundation for promising new chapter in Bangladesh-US relations: Shafiqul Alam The manufacturing sector posted its 14th month of expansion, and at a faster rate. The sector posted expansion readings for the indexes of new orders, new exports, factory output, input purchases, finished goods, imports, input prices, employment, and supplier deliveries. The order backlogs index recorded a more rapid decline. The construction sector posted its 2nd month of expansion, and at a faster rate. The sector posted expansion readings for the indexes of new business, construction activity, employment, and input costs. The order backlogs index posted a slower contraction rate. The services sector posted its 13th month of expansion, and at a faster rate. The sector posted expansion readings for the indexes of new business, business activity, employment, and input costs. The order backlogs index reverted to an expansion reading after recording 2 months of contraction readings. In terms of the future business index, slower expansion rates were recorded for all key sectors of agriculture, manufacturing, construction and services. Read more: Economy must move beyond narrow wealth accumulation: Prof Yunus

Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus on Monday said they must move towards an economy that places human well-being, social justice and environmental stewardship above the narrow accumulation of wealth. "This is not a utopian ideal. It is a necessary evolution. And at the heart of this new economy lies social business," he said, adding that social business is not a niche concept, it is a fundamental principle that business can and must exist to make a difference, not just a profit. Prof Yunus made the remarks while delivering the keynote speech at UN high-level event on "Social Business, Youth and Technology" at UN Headquarters in New York. It began humbly, with a one-dollar loan but today it has grown into a global movement, he mentioned. "From healthcare and renewable energy to education and even sports social businesses are showing that it is possible to tackle the world’s most pressing challenges while remaining economically sustainable," Prof Yunus said. UNGA: Prof Yunus, political leaders in New York  He said they are living proof that another world is within reach—a world where commerce serves humanity, where growth includes everyone and where profit is measured not only in financial returns but in lives improved, communities strengthened and our planet healed. "Our current civilization is on a self-destructive path—one defined by endless extraction, consumption and accumulation. We are endangering the very planet that sustains us," he said. To change course, Prof Yunus said they must build a new civilization—one motivated not by greed but by a shared commitment to solve human and planetary challenges. In this new world, he said, wealth must be shared, not concentrated. "Power held in too few hands weakens the whole of society." And business must be redefined, not as a vehicle for personal profit, but as an engine for social good, Prof Yunus said. Bangladesh fully prepared for fair, peaceful election in February: Prof Yunus tells US "This is the promise of social business. And this is how we will truly achieve the Sustainable Development Goals," he said. But this new civilization will not be built by the same minds that created the old one, Prof Yunus said, adding that it will be designed and driven by young people—the architects of the future. "Unlike previous generations, shaped by outdated systems, today’s youth see what could be, not just what is. Their imagination is limitless. And as I often say: 'Where imagination leads, innovation follows.' If we can imagine it, it can happen. If we don’t, it never will," he said. Prof Yunus said, "That’s why we must encourage young people to channel their creativity into social business—where real, sustainable solutions to climate change, unemployment, poverty and inequality are born." At this pivotal moment, Prof Yunus, called on the youth of the world to lead, not tomorrow, but today. "Dream boldly, but act deliberately. Change doesn’t have to start big." Brink of a New Technological Era Prof Yunus said they stand at the brink of a new technological era—one defined by artificial intelligence, big data, renewable energy and other transformative innovations. These tools have the power to reshape industries, societies and the very fabric of human progress, he said. "But their promise is paired with profound responsibility. Will these technologies become a blessing for humanity—or a source of harm? The answer is not yet written," Prof Yunus said. He said it will be determined by the choices they make today and by the values they instill in tomorrow’s leaders—especially their youth. "It is they who must step forward and guide these tools toward the common good. When directed responsibly, technologies like AI, blockchain and the Internet of Things can dramatically accelerate our progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals," he said. Coupled with the principles of social business—where profit is reinvested into purpose—they can revolutionize sectors from digital health and education to renewable energy and sports, he said. Imagine AI-powered diagnostics reaching remote villages, blockchain ensuring transparency in aid distribution or IoT optimizing clean energy use in underserved communities, Prof Yunus said. "This is not science fiction—it is the future we can build. But we must also confront the real risks: privacy breaches, algorithmic bias, cybersecurity threats, and the potential to deepen inequality," he said, adding that technology is a tool—and like any tool, its impact depends on the hands that wield it. "That’s why we need more than technical innovation—we need ethical innovation. We need leaders who ask not only “Can we do it?” but “Should we do it?”. We need systems—like social business—that align technological advancement with social justice, equity, and environmental stewardship." The future of technology must be shaped not by ambition alone, but by conscience, Prof Yunus said. "Not by competition, but by collaboration. Not for the few, but for all. Let us ensure that this new technological era becomes an era of empathy, equity, and shared progress," he said. Prof Yunus speaks of a world of  "three zeros": Zero Net Carbon Emissions, Zero Wealth Concentration to End Poverty and Zero Unemployment by unleashing creativity in all.  "I also emphasise on the Zero Waste and have been a part of the UN Secretary General’s 'zero waste initiative'. This is not a dream. It is already becoming reality," he said. That’s why, Prof Yunus said, they are encouraging young people everywhere to form 3-Zero Clubs—spaces where individuals become 3-Zero people. A 3-Zero person commits to living sustainably, minimizing waste and embracing social entrepreneurship. "They strive to contribute nothing to global warming, nothing to wealth inequality, and nothing to unemployment," Prof Yunus said. As more join this movement, these clubs grow into 3-Zero families, 3-Zero villages, 3-Zero cities—and one day, a 3-Zero world. "It starts with a single step. But together, those steps can change the world. I have always believed this forum is more than a place for speeches—it is a place for inspiration," Prof Yunus said. "In these turbulent times, true transformation lies in our unity. If we join hands—harnessing the power of social business, the energy of youth and the potential of technology—we can untangle even the most complex global crises," he said. Architects of New Wave "Let us become the architects of a new wave—a world built on justice, sustainability and hope. A world where our collective dreams ignite a new dawn for all of humanity," he said. Today, more than ever, that future stands at a crossroads, Prof Yunus  said. "Wildfires of climate change scorch the earth. The chasm of inequality grows deeper. Conflicts rage and the struggle for justice and peace tests our very humanity. These crises are not isolated. They are intertwined—threads of a fragile tapestry, each pulling at the other, shaping the whole of our existence," he said. What they need urgently is renewed multilateral diplomacy, deeper international cooperation, and collective commitment to sustainable development, Prof Yunus said. Many countries, including Bangladesh, are preparing to graduate from LDC status amid severe challenges. For Bangladesh, this includes hosting 1.3 million forcibly displaced Rohingyas, managing repeated climate shocks, and navigating global economic turbulence. "In such a context, reducing UN budgets or shrinking official development assistance would be counterproductive. Instead, the world must redouble efforts to expand international support, provide technical assistance, and ensure a just transition for nations facing heightened vulnerability," he said. The persistent shadow of global conflict continues to threaten peace and stability worldwide. These are not isolated tragedies—they ripple across borders, disrupting economies, endangering food security and shattering human lives. "In the face of such interconnected crises, we cannot resort to old solutions. What we need now—urgently—is renewed multilateral diplomacy and deeper international cooperation," Prof Yunus said. "These conflicts do more than immediate harm; they also undermine our shared vision for a sustainable future," he said. As an advocate for the Sustainable Development Goals, Prof Yunus has long believed that these goals cannot be fully realized within our current global system—a system still dominated by the relentless pursuit of profit over people. "Under these conditions, the path to the SDGs can indeed appear bleak," he said. "But I am not here to dwell on the gloom. I am here to propose a shift—a transformation of the system itself," Prof Yunus mentioned.  

Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus has acknowledged the significant contributions of Bangladeshi expatriates in boosting the national economy through remittances, thanking them for helping the country recover strongly. Speaking at an interaction with members of the Bangladesh community in Malaysia on Tuesday evening, Prof Yunus highlighted the interim government's efforts to enhance services for expatriates. He listened to their concerns and assured them that the issues raised would be addressed. Expatriates’ Welfare and Overseas Employment Adviser Dr Asif Nazrul, Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain also spoke at the event. Bangladesh High Commissioner to Malaysia Shameem Ahsan conducted the session. Prof Yunus invites Malaysian investors to tap growing opportunities in Bangladesh Prof Yunus also discussed opportunities for expatriates to participate in the upcoming election, hinting at a “new experience” for them in the voting process. Foreign Affairs Adviser Hossain reiterated the government's commitment to promptly addressing expatriate issues, urging workers to ensure they have proper documentation before arriving in Malaysia to avoid legal and administrative complications. “We can’t help you without proper documents,” he said, while recognising their vital role in sustaining Bangladesh’s economy through remittances. Dr Nazrul echoed the sentiments, expressing gratitude for the expatriates’ contributions and pledging continued government efforts to support them.