Adviser to the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting Mahfuj Alam has expressed his intention to turn the Bangladesh Film Development Corporation (BFDC) into a fully-fledged composite film city. Highlighting its central location and existing infrastructure, he said BFDC holds immense potential to house all aspects of filmmaking—ranging from shooting and editing to dubbing and post-production—under one roof.

Mahfuj, who was appointed as adviser in late February, made the remarks on Tuesday (April 8) during a visit to the BFDC premises. 

Accompanied by the organisation's managing director, he toured various shooting floors and interacted with officials and staff.

Later, addressing a gathering at the Zahir Raihan Auditorium, the adviser described his visit as part of his routine responsibilities at the ministry.

Mahfuj Alam assumed his advisory role at the ministry in late February this year. During Tuesday's visit, he also stopped by several offices within the BFDC premises, including the Directors' Guild and the Artistes' Association.

At the Artistes' Association, the adviser was greeted with flowers by veteran actress Anwara. Prominent industry figures such as actors Nayeem, Aliraj, Subrata, Rumana Islam Mukti, and Shiba Shanu were also present during the exchange.

"There are several departments under the ministry located here at BFDC. The purpose of my visit was to assess their operations. I spoke to a number of individuals during my visit and observed that there are many challenges. The officials and employees working here also have several demands. I came in person to better understand what is happening and how things are being managed," he said.

Highlighting the untapped potential of the BFDC, the adviser stated, "BFDC holds immense potential. Located in the heart of Dhaka, this expansive space is equipped with the kind of facilities generally available in any national-level film city. The concept is composite—where shooting, editing, dubbing, and all other services are available under one roof. From editing to pre-production and post-production—everything should be consolidated in one location."

Mahfuj Alam expressed his commitment to transforming the BFDC into a composite film city during his tenure. "If we can make BFDC a profitable venture, it would be possible to ensure all payments and incentives for officials and staff from its own revenue. That is my sole objective for BFDC. I hope everyone associated with the organisation will extend their cooperation in this effort," he added.

During his speech, Mahfuj Alam also touched upon an ongoing project at the BFDC. "There is a project currently underway at BFDC, and another one is in progress at the Kabirpur Film City. From these two sites, we will try to resolve the existing issues. We aim to ensure proper utilisation of resources, create more work opportunities for everyone, and make it easier for filmmakers and producers to operate. The goal is to facilitate the production of quality films in Bangladesh," he said.

At the Zahir Raihan Auditorium, alongside the adviser, BFDC Managing Director Masuma Rahman and actor Nayeem also addressed the audience.

In her speech, Masuma Rahman said, "Every official and employee here is equally important—both to the adviser and to me. On the adviser's assurance, I promised you all that within six months, we will show a change in our circumstances."

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"It is disheartening for both of us that we must repeatedly rely on the ministry to secure salaries, bonuses—even by taking loans. I assured the adviser on your behalf that if we are given just a bit of support, we will be able to elevate him to a position of honour," she concluded.