Former DG of Science Museum Emphasizes Strict Enforcement of Laws
Mohammad Munir Chowdhury, former Director General of the National Museum of Science and Technology, has stressed the importance of integrity and ethical conduct in business, warning that without these values, business ventures are bound to collapse. He criticized certain unethical business practices, stating that some traders, driven by personal gain, are amassing wealth at the expense of public interest, living lavish lifestyles while disregarding societal well-being.
Speaking at a session titled "Facilitating Business and Investment Activities," held at the Bangladesh Trade and Tariff Commission on Tuesday, October 22, 2024, Mr. Chowdhury highlighted the necessity for regulatory bodies, including the Tariff Commission, to ensure the availability of unadulterated food and to curb excessive profiteering through strict oversight and discipline.
He underscored that, despite tariff exemptions, if product prices do not decrease, stakeholders—including consumers, businesses, and public bodies—must collaboratively investigate and resolve the root causes of such issues. Addressing the larger public health concerns, he called for stronger enforcement of laws to prevent the production and distribution of chemically adulterated and substandard food products. He advocated for exemplary punitive measures through the Bangladesh Standards and Testing Institution (BSTI) and mobile courts.
Additionally, Mr. Chowdhury urged the elimination of bribery and harassment in government offices and called for the arrest and prosecution of corrupt officials. He also recommended promoting the production of rice bran oil as a healthier alternative to soybean oil, while also considering tariff reductions on olive and other plant-based oils, noting that scientific research supports the health benefits of olive oil. To encourage sustainable agricultural practices, he suggested that the Ministry of Agriculture devise favorable policies to expand olive cultivation in the country, particularly in the hilly regions.
Highlighting the environmental impact of rice production, Mr. Chowdhury warned of groundwater depletion due to excessive water usage. To address this, he suggested encouraging the consumption of alternatives such as potatoes, citing Bangladesh's significant potato production, while emphasizing the need for better and more affordable cold storage facilities.
Mr. Chowdhury also emphasized the role of science and technology in ensuring food safety, calling for the involvement of young scientists and innovators to improve the quality of food and medicine. Given the complexity, cost, and time involved in laboratory testing for food quality and environmental pollution, he advocated for the adoption of technologies from the Fourth Industrial Revolution to streamline these processes. He concluded by stressing that beyond enacting laws and policies, all stakeholders—government institutions, businesses, and consumers—must remain resolute in their commitment to enforcing and adhering to these regulations.
The session was inaugurated by Dr. Moinul Khan, Chairman (Secretary) of the National Trade and Tariff Commission, and was attended by government officials and representatives from the business community.
