Al-Arafah Islami Bank has launched a nationwide financial assistance programme for fishermen affected by the annual fishing ban, distributing Tk 7.9 million to 784 beneficiaries across the country. The initiative aims to support fishing communities during the restriction period and strengthen the Bank’s corporate social responsibility efforts, said a press statement.
The inauguration took place in Cox’s Bazar, where Managing Director and CEO Mohd Rafat Ullah Khan officially launched the programme. Deputy Managing Director Md Fazlur Rahman Chowdhury and District Fisheries Officer Nazmul Huda attended as special guests. As part of the rollout, 131 fishermen received Tk 10,000 each through the Bank’s Cox’s Bazar Branch and 50 through the Teknaf Branch.
Speaking at the ceremony, Mohd Rafat Ullah Khan said the Bank is committed to the welfare of communities and remains focused on improving the living standards of marginalised and working-class citizens. “Supporting fishermen during the fishing restriction period is an important component of our CSR activities. We will continue our humanitarian and welfare-oriented initiatives in the future,” he said.
Other senior officials present included Delwar Hossain, General Secretary of the Fishing Boat Owners Association; Md Manzurul Alam, Senior Executive Vice President; ANM Faisal Kabir, Regional Head of Chattogram Region; Md Mizanur Rahman, Senior Assistant Vice President; and other executives of the Bank. The programme was presided over by Md Faridul Alam, Manager of Cox’s Bazar Branch, and attended by over 100 family members of beneficiaries.
Under the nationwide programme, financial support will also be provided through Hatia Branch for 146 fishermen, Shoronkhola Branch for 125, Alipur Branch for 100, Mathbaria Branch for 109, Banaripara Branch for 58, and Patharghata Branch for 65, ensuring extensive coverage of affected communities.
The initiative reflects Al-Arafah Islami Bank’s strategy to combine financial services with social impact, helping vulnerable sectors navigate seasonal economic challenges while reinforcing the Bank’s position as a responsible corporate entity.
