Feature

Flashback to some key events this year

The new Government
With the promise of change and building a better future, the new government was formed by Awami League on the 16th of February. The Prime Minister of Bangladesh gave the slogan of making a Digital Bangladesh by 2021.

The demise of the king of pop

The world cried at one of the biggest losses in the music world, and probably one of the biggest losses for humanity on the 25th of July. The legendary king of pop Michael Jackson - "The greatest entertainer who ever lived" (Motown Records founder Berry Gordy eulogizes) - suffered from cardiac arrest at his home in Hombly Hills, Los Angeles, California. His death triggered an outpouring of grief around the world, creating surges of internet traffic and causing sales of his music to soar.

AILA hits the nation
Aila struck Bangladesh on May 25, 2009 putting coastal people in severe danger. About half a million people had to leave their homes and go to temporary shelters when huge tidal waves came crashing with the 100 kmph (60 mph) wind. But not everyone could move to safety timely. It is estimated that, by far, about 200 people are dead, 1,120 people are still missing and 200,000 people are trapped in water. The misery of the affected people knows no bound. They don't have water to drink, as most of the sources of fresh sweet water have been washed away by Aila, let alone food to eat. Even if the water goes away soon, people are confused about how they will get back on their feet, as they have lost their houses, cattle and boats.

Bangladesh cricket teams' recent victory
Bangladesh won its first five-day test match in the 35th Test match the country has ever played since receiving the Test Status, beating visiting Zimbabwe. It means Bangladesh achieved its first victory earlier than New Zealand, who had to wait for 45 matches and, in the more leisurely atmosphere of cricket in the middle of the last century, 26 years. Bangladesh soon went on win their first test series against West Indies at the home-ground of their Caribbean opponents.

Day light saving

The federal government's decision to introduce DST in Bangladesh was made to address the country's energy shortages, particularly in the summer period. This arrangement aimed to save energy by reducing artificial lighting in the evening.