Kuala lumpur: Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus today highlighted the dangers of wealth concentration, asserting that it leads to discrimination and injustice. Speaking at a special convocation ceremony at University Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM), Prof Yunus emphasized the necessity for an inclusive economy where wealth is distributed fairly, allowing everyone to live with dignity and purpose.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the special convocation was organized to award Prof Yunus an honorary doctorate in recognition of his groundbreaking work in social business. During his speech, he introduced his Three Zero vision: zero net carbon emissions, zero wealth concentration to eliminate poverty, and zero unemployment by promoting entrepreneurship across all sectors. Prof Yunus expressed confidence that this vision could pave the way for a better world.
Prof Yunus underscored the urgency of adopting new economic models focused on social business, sustainability, and prioritizing people over profit. He criticized the current systems, noting that continuing with the same approaches will yield the same unsatisfactory results. Prof Yunus argued that economic growth must be inclusive, benefiting the many rather than a privileged few.
Discussing the long-standing relationship between Bangladesh and Malaysia, Prof Yunus praised the strong ties built on mutual respect, cultural exchange, and shared progress. He highlighted Malaysia’s role as a trusted ally in Bangladesh’s development, particularly in human resources and technological advancement. Prof Yunus called for deepening cooperation in emerging sectors like the semiconductor industry, halal economy, renewable energy, and entrepreneurship.
Prof Yunus also reflected on his personal journey, from his work as an economist to founding Grameen Bank and promoting microfinance and social business. He argued that poverty results from systemic failures rather than a lack of talent or ambition, emphasizing the need for systems that empower the poor. Prof Yunus shared how microfinance became a global movement, demonstrating that poverty can be eradicated.
Addressing the youth, Prof Yunus urged them to become job creators rather than job seekers, highlighting the importance of entrepreneurship in sectors like healthcare, education, farming, and technology. He encouraged young people to create opportunities that benefit their communities and contribute to global change.
Earlier in the day, Prof Yunus received an honorary doctorate degree from UKM’s chancellor, marking a notable recognition of his contributions to social business and economic inclusion.