Bangladesh seeks 100 global partners for PS Mahsud centenary

Dhaka: Bangladesh has launched an international tourism partnership campaign to mark the 100^th anniversary of historic paddle steamer PS Mahsud in 2028, seeking to bring 100 tour operators and tourism organizations into a global promotional network.

The initiative, titled “100 Years, 100 Global Partners,” was unveiled on November 3 at the Bangladesh Tourism Board Pavilion during World Travel Market (WTM) London 2026. Ambassador Muhammad Abdul Muhith, Bangladesh’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, formally launched the campaign at the exhibition venue, ExCeL London.

The ceremony was attended by Borhan Uddin, executive director of River and Green Tours, the company operating the vessel, and managing director of NRB Vistara Limited. Officials from the Bangladesh High Commission, members of the non-resident Bangladeshi community and other participants from Bangladesh also attended.

Built in 1928, PS Mahsud is regarded as one of the country’s historic paddle steamers and a symbol of its river-based heritage. Its centenary is expected to provide an opportunity to introduce international travelers to Bangladesh’s river cruising, cultural traditions and heritage tourism offerings.

Under the theme “Bangladesh – The Riverine Soul of South Asia” and the message “PS Mahsud: 100 Years on the River,” the campaign will run through a yearlong program of promotional activities, industry networking and destination marketing ahead of the 2028 celebration.

Paddle steamer PS Mahsud

Organizers aim to involve international tour operators, travel agencies, destination management companies, tourism associations and other industry stakeholders. The planned network is intended to develop commercial relationships, create new travel opportunities and raise Bangladesh’s profile as a destination for authentic river and heritage experiences.

Speaking at the launch, Borhan Uddin emphasized the role of international cooperation in promoting the country’s river tourism potential and connecting local tourism businesses with overseas markets. He invited travel companies worldwide to participate in the initiative and join the centenary celebrations.

River and Green Tours is leading the campaign in association with NRB Vistara Limited. The organizers hope the partnership will help establish stronger links between Bangladesh’s tourism sector and international travel businesses.

The campaign also seeks to use the historic vessel’s anniversary as a platform to highlight the country’s waterways as a distinctive tourism asset. By combining river journeys with cultural and heritage experiences, the initiative aims to expand the range of tourism products presented to international visitors.

With the centenary approaching in 2028, the organizers are encouraging global industry partners to take part in the campaign and contribute to promoting Bangladesh’s riverine heritage.