Dhaka:The Malaysia-Bangladesh Tourism, Arts and Cultural Network (MBTACN) was launched at Alliance Fran§aise de Dhaka, aiming to enhance tourism cooperation, cultural exchanges, and connectivity between Malaysia and Bangladesh.
According to United News of Bangladesh, the network was inaugurated under the slogan 'Bridging People. Celebrating Culture. Inspiring Tourism,' and seeks to connect stakeholders from various sectors including tourism, culture, arts, education, healthcare, business, and youth.
Hazwan Hasnol, Charg© d'Affaires of the High Commission of Malaysia in Dhaka, highlighted the significance of MBTACN as a bridge between the tourism initiatives of both nations, encouraging Malaysians to explore Bangladesh and vice versa. He noted the relevance of Visit Malaysia 2026, now extended to 2027, as a platform to showcase Malaysia's diverse culture and attractions.
Hasnol also discussed Bangladesh's tourism highlights like the Sundarbans, Cox's Bazar, and other cultural and natural attractions. Additionally, he mentioned Malaysia's Year of Medical Tourism 2026, emphasizing the country's world-class medical services and international healthcare standards.
The ceremony featured prominent figures such as Barrister Mutasim Billah Faruqui, CEO of the Bangladesh Tourism Board, and Syed Yahya Syed Othman, a founding member of MBTACN, who joined virtually. Fran§ois Chambraud, Director of Alliance Fran§aise de Dhaka, and Abu Sufian, Executive Chairman of MBTACN, also played key roles in the event.
Organisers stated that MBTACN aims to promote a variety of activities including cultural festivals, exhibitions, and educational partnerships, fortifying the long-standing relationships between the two countries through broader institutional cooperation.
Speakers at the event expressed optimism that MBTACN would serve as a lasting platform for fostering tourism cooperation, cultural exchange, and stronger ties between Malaysia and Bangladesh.