Chief Adviser to the interim government Prof Muhammad Yunus today sought Malaysia’s support in Bangladesh’s bid to join the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean).

He sought the support during a meeting with Malaysian High Commissioner Haznah Md Hashim at the State Guest House Jamuna.

Bangladesh can be a bridge between Asean and Saarc, said the chief adviser.

In response, the Malaysian high commissioner stated that Malaysia, which is set to chair Asean next, would convey Yunus’s request to the relevant authorities. She also expressed Malaysia’s willingness to collaborate with the Yunus-led interim government.

“We trust in you. We wish you all the best,” she said.

The chief adviser emphasised Bangladesh’s strong ties with Malaysia and recalled his personal connections with Malaysian leaders, including Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim and former prime minister Mahathir Mohamad.

“Let’s work together to further strengthen our relationship,” he said.

Yunus also noted that at least seven Malaysian universities have Yunus Centres, promoting his social business ideas and his “three zero concepts.”

During the meeting, Hashim raised concerns about tax issues affecting Malaysian companies in Bangladesh, particularly Robi Axiata, which pays 50 percent of its revenue in taxes.

She highlighted that Malaysian investments in Bangladesh exceed $5 billion, with further interest in sectors like education.

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