Bangladesh’s first RMG museum will open on August 14

The country’s first readymade garment (RMG) museum is set to open on August 14 at the BGMEA headquarters in the capital, Dhaka.

Faruque Hassan, president of the Bangladesh Garment Manufacturers and Exporters Association (BGMEA), has urged members to donate archival material and objects relating to the readymade garment business in a letter issued on Sunday.

“Initially, we are planning to collect, preserve and display the history, archives, and objects like commercial documents, copies of old L/C or any other commercial documents, pictures, audio-visuals, sewing machine or other machines, sample copies of the garment produced, accessories, spares in the early 1980s,” he urged in the letter.

He also requested members to donate letters, fax, telex, diary, presentation, or any other relevant documents that have historical Value. Moreover, he also urged donations of office machines or equipment like typewriters, computers, fax machines, biography of the industry pioneer, and any other collectibles pertinent to the history of the RMG industry and information, stories, etc worth preserving.

“If you have whatsoever mentioned above, you may kindly consider donating to our industry’s very own museum. The name and details of the contributor will be duly mentioned. By contributing and volunteering to establish the museum, you will not only help us preserve our glorious history but also would make proper use of the resources under your possession,” the letter read.

He also said that the RMG industry has been a major driver of Bangladesh’s economy for 40 years, facing challenges but emerging stronger and now it’s the second-largest garment exporter in the world, employing millions.

“The history of the RMG industry is not well-known, with many stories and memories lost. It is important to preserve this history so future generations can learn about the challenges and triumphs of the industry,” the letter added.

The museum would house exhibits that showcase the history of the industry, from its humble beginnings to its current position as a global leader.

“It would also be a place where people could come to learn about the contributions of the pioneers of the RMG industry and the sacrifices that have been made to make the industry what it is today. I believe an RMG Museum would be a fitting tribute to the industry’s history and preserve its legacy for future generations. I urge you to support its establishment at BGMEA,” he added.

Regarding the museum, BGMEA Vice-President Shahidullah Azim told Dhaka Tribune that they are working to make it happen on the due date.

“The museum will tell the story of the journey, challenges, prospects, and current situation of our RMG sector, the largest export earner of the country. The journey of the RMG industry to where it is today was not an easy one. It has gone through many ups and downs to get to the present situation, becoming a multi-billion-dollar industry,” he added.

Basically, the main purpose of this museum will be to highlight the history of that journey, he added.

Courtesy: Dhaka Tribune