DHAKA, Aug 28, 2024 (BSS) - Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus today sought Malaysia’s support for Bangladesh to become a member of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).

He sought the support when Malaysian High Commissioner in Dhaka Haznah Md Hashim paid a courtesy call on him at the State Guest House Jamuna here.

“Bangladesh can be a bridge between ASEAN and SAARC,” Chief Adviser’s Press Wing quoted Prof Yunus as saying.

During the meeting, Hashim said Kuala Lumpur was going to be the next chair of ASEAN and she would convey Professor Yunus’s message to the Malaysian authorities regarding the ASEAN membership.  

She said Malaysia would work with the Prof Yunus-led Interim government. “We have trust in you. We wish you all the best,” she said.

The chief adviser said Bangladesh has a very good relationship with Malaysia and recalled his friendship with Malaysian leaders, including Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim and former Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad.

“Let’s give our best to enhance relationship,” Prof Yunus told the Malaysian envoy.

He said at least seven Malaysian universities have Yunus Centre, promoting social business ideas he champions and his three zero concepts.

The high commissioner, who is leaving Bangladesh after tenure of four years, raised tax issues being faced by Robi Axiata and other Malaysian companies, saying some 50 percent of Robi’s revenue is paid as taxes.  

She said Malaysian companies, including several owned by its sovereign funds, have invested more than US$5 billion in Bangladesh and those are now willing to invest more, including in education.

Hashim said a second Malaysian car manufacturer has signed an agreement with a Chittagong-based company for distributing and assembling cars.  

The Malaysian envoy said Kuala Lumpur could be a desired destination for medical tourism, saying the Bangladeshi people can take essential medical treatment in the country at affordable prices.