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Driving digital growth with local innovation and inclusive connectivity

April 07, 2025 00:00:00


Techexpress Desk

In an era where digital transformation is reshaping societies across the globe, Banglalink is emerging as a key player in Bangladesh's journey towards becoming a digitally empowered nation.

Under the leadership of Golam Kibria, the Chief Digital Officer who brings nearly three decades of experience from global giants like Google and extensive work across South Asia, Banglalink is driving forward an ambitious agenda-rooted in innovation, inclusion, and empowerment.

Having served in diverse roles across the telecommunications, IT, and digital service industries, Kibria's return to Bangladesh marks more than a professional shift-it signals a broader commitment to nurturing local talent and building a sustainable, tech-forward ecosystem.

At the core of Banglalink's mission is the belief that connectivity alone is no longer sufficient.

Today, telecom operators must evolve into providers of complete digital lifestyles, and Banglalink is positioning itself at the forefront of that evolution.

Central to this transformation is the company's AI1440 and DO1440 strategies, designed to engage with customers every minute of the day-1,440 minutes of connection, care, and customization. "We are moving towards a future dominated by artificial intelligence," said Kibria.

Through these strategies, Banglalink is enhancing personalized, data-driven experiences using AI, catering to the modern digital-first user.

One of the flagship outcomes of this vision is RYZE, Banglalink's AI-powered productivity platform tailored to the youth of Bangladesh. Integrating tools like Summaryze, Grammaryze, Replyze, Rewryze, and CV Ryzer, RYZE aims to boost creativity, streamline professional tasks, and upskill the younger generation. It's a testament to Banglalink's dedication to empowering users-not just with services, but with capabilities.

This empowerment philosophy extends to Banglalink's investment in homegrown talent. Its key digital products-MyBL Super App, Toffee, and RYZE-are all developed by local engineers and innovators. "The digital acumen and creativity of our local talent are world-class," Kibria noted. These platforms reflect not only technical expertise but also a deep understanding of the Bangladeshi consumer landscape.

The transformation of the MyBL app into a comprehensive super app underscores Banglalink's broader ambition to touch every aspect of a customer's digital life. The app now integrates telecom services, healthcare, payments, education, and entertainment, catering to over 60,000 daily users.

Complementing this is Toffee, Bangladesh's first homegrown digital entertainment platform, which has become a cultural phenomenon with more than 7 million monthly users. From news to sports, from educational content to drama series, Toffee is helping democratize infotainment, reaching users anytime, anywhere.

But perhaps most significantly, Banglalink's digital drive is deeply inclusive. Recognizing the digital divide-especially the disparities between urban and rural areas, and between men and women-Banglalink is placing a sharp focus on empowering underserved communities. From ensuring affordable high-speed internet to promoting women's digital entrepreneurship, the company's strategy is rooted in the principle that no one

should be left behind.

In that context, the potential collaboration with Starlink to deliver satellite internet could be a game-changer. With internet penetration in rural areas still significantly lagging behind urban centres, satellite internet promises to bring connectivity to even the remotest corners of Bangladesh. This would not only bridge the digital divide but also unlock new economic opportunities for millions of people.

Banglalink's journey toward digital transformation is not just about adopting cutting-edge technology-it's about leveraging that technology to create meaningful, tangible impact in the lives of ordinary people. With a bold vision, strategic leadership, and a deep commitment to inclusivity, Banglalink is setting a strong example for what a digital operator in the Global South can achieve.

As Golam Kibria puts it, "It's not about being just another telecom company-it's about being a digital enabler for the future of Bangladesh." And with every innovation and every connection, Banglalink is moving one step closer to that future.


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