TOAB Election Panel Hosts Sufi Night to Promote Unity in Tourism Sector

A panel contesting the upcoming election of the Tour Operators Association of Bangladesh (TOAB) organised a cultural and networking event titled “Sufi Nights and Dinner” in Dhaka on Saturday, aiming to promote unity and cooperation within the country’s tourism industry.

The event, hosted by the TOAB Ogragami Oikkojot panel at a convention hall in Nayapaltan, brought together TOAB members, tourism stakeholders and industry representatives in what organisers described as an effort to strengthen professional ties ahead of the association’s election.

The programme featured Sufi music performances, informal discussions and a dinner reception. Participants exchanged views on the current state of Bangladesh’s tourism industry and its future prospects, while highlighting the importance of collaboration among stakeholders.

Speaking at the event, panel leader and presidential candidate Dr Taslim Amin Shovon, along with other panel members, stressed the need for a strong, united and sustainable tourism sector. They emphasised the importance of experienced leadership, transparency and collective efforts to support the industry’s continued growth.

Organisers said the tourism sector had reached a stage where inclusive development and responsible leadership were essential to addressing challenges and unlocking new opportunities.

They described the gathering as more than a social event, saying it served as a platform for fostering stronger relationships among tourism professionals and promoting a message of unity beyond differing views.

Among those present were former TOAB presidents Taufiq Uddin Ahmed and Faridul Haque, Bangladesh Outbound Tour Operators Association (BOTOA) President Syed Golam Mohammad, Travel Canvas Editor Syed Golam Kader, and BOTOA founding president Rezaul Ekram (Raju), who is also Executive Director of the Bangladesh Foundation for Tourism Development (BFTD).

The event was moderated by senior journalist and TravelBangla.com Editor Pranab Saha, while overall coordination was carried out by TOAB Ogragami Oikkojot chief coordinator Chowdhury Hasanuzzaman Rony and deputy coordinator Abdullah Al Kafi.