Information and Broadcasting Minister Zahir Uddin Swapan has said that cybersecurity has become one of the country’s most important security priorities, arguing that protecting digital systems now carries greater significance than safeguarding traditional assets.
Speaking at the inauguration of Bangladesh Ansar and Village Defence Party (VDP)’s new media platform, ‘Prantik Konthoshor’, at the organisation’s headquarters in Khilgaon on Wednesday, the minister mentioned that the nature of security has changed significantly with the rapid growth of digital technology.
He said, "The traditional idea of protecting valuables stored in a Sindhuk, a classic Bengali strongbox, has been overtaken by the need to defend computer networks from cyberattacks.”
According to him, securing digital infrastructure is now more important than protecting even extensive physical borders.
Swapan also said, "Modern conflicts are no longer fought solely with conventional weapons, and communication extends far beyond the exchange of voices.”
Referring to the cyber theft involving Bangladesh Bank’s foreign currency reserves, he stated that the incident demonstrated how digital manipulation can threaten national security and financial stability.
The minister praised Bangladesh Ansar and VDP for adopting modern technology and introducing a digital communication platform designed to engage its workforce of around six million members.
“The initiative reflected forward-looking leadership and showed an understanding of the country’s changing technological environment,” he added.
According to Swapan, the newly launched Prantik Konthoshor platform is expected to contribute to the government’s broader information management strategy by strengthening digital communication and public engagement.
He also commended the force for embracing digital transformation instead of relying on conventional approaches, describing the shift as an example of effective institutional adaptation.
Highlighting the pace of technological change, the minister further added that organisations and individuals must continue updating their knowledge and skills to remain relevant.
He warned that today’s modern practices could quickly become outdated if institutions fail to keep pace with innovation.
Swapan expressed hope that the Ansar and VDP initiative would serve as a model for other government organisations seeking to strengthen their digital communication capabilities.
State Minister for the Road Transport and Highways Division and Railways Ministry Habibur Rashid attended the ceremony as the special guest, while Major General Abdul Motaleb Sazzad Mahmud, Director General of Bangladesh Ansar and VDP, presided over the event. Senior officials of the force were also present.
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