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Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus has stressed that his post-uprising interim government is prioritizing peace, stability and sweeping reforms ahead of power transfer to elected people's representatives.
Addressing a special convocation Wednesday at Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) where he was conferred upon Honorary Doctorate in Social Business, the chief adviser reaffirmed his pledge to hold a free, fair and transparent general election in February 2026 "so that power is handed over to the true representatives of the people."
Dr Yunus called for deeper cooperation between Bangladesh and Malaysia and reaffirmed his government's commitment to building a just, inclusive, and democratic Bangladesh.
Speaking before an audience of scholars, students, diplomats, and dignitaries, the Nobel laureate said he accepted the honour not just for himself but "on behalf of the people of Bangladesh, whose courage, strength and hope continue to guide my way forward."
He reflected on the youth-led uprising in July-August 2024 that ended what he described as a "fascist regime" in Bangladesh. "Hundreds of students and youths gave their lives for a better future-a future where everyone can live with dignity, free from intimidation, discrimination, and injustice," he told the audience at the academia.
He outlined his administration's economic vision that focuses on entrepreneurship, education, technology, and closer cooperation with international partners. "To build a stronger and resilient Bangladesh, we need big changes in our economy," he noted, adding that wealth concentration must be tackled to ensure inclusive growth.
The founder of microfinance-major Grameen Bank shared his "Three Zeros" vision-zero net carbon emissions, zero wealth concentration to end poverty, and zero unemployment through widespread entrepreneurship, and propounded how to get to the goals.
"The world doesn't need more employees -- it needs entrepreneurs, problem-solvers, and dreamers who will create new opportunities -- not only for themselves but for many others," he told students.
Dr Yunus recounted the beginnings of his microfinance work with a handful of women in rural Bangladesh, which grew into a global movement lifting millions out of poverty. He stressed that poverty is not caused by a lack of talent but by systems that deny people fair chances. Praising Malaysia as a "trusted friend," he highlighted decades of cooperation in trade, education, innovation, and people-to-people links. He expressed interest in expanding ties into new sectors such as semiconductors, the halal economy, renewable energy, and entrepreneurship.
"As Bangladesh steps into a new era, we want to deepen our cooperation with Malaysia," he said, adding that both countries could become a model for sustainable development and social progress through stronger collaboration in education, research, and investment.
Addressing students directly, Dr Yunus urged them to "dream big, think boldly, and work accordingly," reminding them that their generation holds the key to reshaping the world through technology, creativity, and social responsibility.
"Real success is not just about what you achieve for yourself, but also about how you help others rise with you."
He closed by reaffirming his "renewed commitment to strengthening the bonds between our two great nations" and thanked UKM for its longstanding engagement with social-business initiatives through its Yunus Social Business Centre.
mirmostafiz@yahoo.com