Chief Adviser (CA) Professor Muhammad Yunus said his government is prepared to transfer power to elected representatives, with the election schedule already set.

Speaking at a meeting with Bangladeshi expatriates in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, Prof Yunus said efforts are underway to ensure that citizens living abroad can participate in the upcoming election.

“I hope this time you will have a new experience as voters. The Election Commission is making preparations to enable expatriates to vote,” he said.

He thanked Bangladeshi expatriates in Malaysia for their significant contribution to the country’s economy and stressed the importance of recognizing their efforts. 

CA noted that since taking office, the government has engaged with expatriates to hear their concerns and work towards resolving their issues.

Prof Yunus said quick action has been taken to address passport-related difficulties, and the ‘Nagorik Seba Bangladesh’ initiative is being introduced to deliver government services to expatriates. Plans are also in progress to develop a special mobile application to connect Bangladeshis living abroad on a single platform.

Acknowledging the role of expatriates in helping the country’s economy recover from a difficult period, he said the situation in Bangladesh has now improved significantly.

During the meeting, several issues faced by Bangladeshi expatriates in Malaysia were discussed. Expatriates’ Welfare and Overseas Employment Adviser Professor Asif Nazrul said talks have been held with Malaysian authorities to increase staffing at the embassy, introduce Graduate Plus visas for Bangladeshi students, regularize undocumented workers, and promote cooperation in trade and industry.

Foreign Affairs Adviser Md Touhid Hossain and Prof Asif Nazrul were also present at the event, which was attended by representatives from various professions, organizations, and businesses.

MSK/