PUTRAJAYA, Aug 12 — Bangladesh looks forward to Malaysia’s support in its rebuilding efforts as the country returns to normalcy following last year’s student uprising.
Chief Adviser of Bangladesh’s government Dr Muhammad Yunus said the country is now progressing on the right path.
He also expressed appreciation to Malaysia and Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim for their support during the country’s challenging time.
Speaking in a joint news conference with Anwar today, the Nobel Prize laureate recalled that after he resumed office last year, Anwar became the first foreign leader to visit Bangladesh.
Describing Anwar as a friend in need, Yunus said:
“It was a wonderful feeling to find a friend to come in time of need when we were desperately looking for support somewhere. Because we have no idea which way we are moving.
“We are happy to have that and we strengthen our resolve to make sure Bangladesh is moving in the right ways.”
He added that since he headed the government, steps have been taken to put the country back in order.
“We are happy we restored order in the country, we restored the economy, the institutions and functions.
“Now we are ready for elections that will be held in February to create a new government. So we need a lot of support. We are looking to Malaysia’s support, always,” Yunus said.
Concerning the meeting with Anwar today, the Chief Adviser also expressed his optimism and Bangladesh’s readiness to work together with Malaysia, bilaterally and multilaterally.
Yunus, who is currently on a three-day official visit here, also invited Malaysia's business community to invest in Bangladesh, which he described as holding “tremendous opportunity.”
Bangladesh is also seeking help from Malaysia, particularly as the current chair of Asean, in addressing issues of Rohingya refugees in the country.
“So we need all the help we can get. And Malaysia is a good friend,” he said.
In 2024, Malaysia-Bangladesh trade rose 5.1 per cent to RM13.35 billion (US$2.92 billion).
Bangladesh is Malaysia’s second-largest trading partner and export destination in South Asia, with key exports including petroleum products, palm oil, and chemicals, while imports comprise textiles, footwear, petroleum products, and manufactured goods.
Diplomatic relations between the two countries began in 1972, following the independence of Bangladesh from Pakistan in 1971.
