Three-day international security, safety expo opens in Dhaka

DHAKA, September 17: A three-day international expo showcasing the latest technologies and solutions in security, occupational safety, health and fire protection began in Dhaka yesterday.

The second edition of the International Security Expo and Occupational Safety, Health and Fire Expo-2026 was inaugurated at the International Convention City Bashundhara (ICCB) in the capital.

The event, jointly organised by technology products and services provider i-Station Limited and the Bangladesh Computer Society (BCS), will continue until September 19.

The expo brings together local manufacturers, suppliers, importers, software and cybersecurity entrepreneurs and businesses with international security and safety technology companies, creating opportunities for technology exchange and business partnerships.

Speaking at the inaugural ceremony, Bangladesh Hi-Tech Park Authority Managing Director Md Fazlur Rahman said such an international event could contribute to strengthening the country's overall security system.

He said the expo was not merely a platform for displaying technology but also an opportunity to raise awareness, build networks and strengthen public-private partnerships in security and safety.

Rahman also called on foreign security and safety technology companies to invest in Bangladesh's hi-tech parks.

BCS Secretary General Muhammad Monirul Islam said the country's rapid digitalisation and industrialisation required greater attention to security, workplace safety and preparedness for emergencies.

"Security is no longer limited to protecting buildings or physical assets. It also includes the protection of people, information, digital systems, businesses and critical infrastructure," he said.

He described investment in security and safety as an investment in people, businesses and the country's future, adding that the expo would facilitate knowledge sharing and create new business connections between local and international companies.

i-Station Managing Director Madhu Sudan Saha said the expo would showcase the latest technologies and products in security and safety management.

As the use of smart and connected technologies is expanding in institutions and infrastructure management, the expo would help organisations learn about modern security solutions and strengthen their existing systems, he said.

The inaugural session was chaired by BCS Vice President Md Wahidul Hasan Dipu.

He said the growing pace of digitalisation, industrialisation and urbanisation was increasing the importance of security and workplace safety.

Investments in fire safety, emergency preparedness and modern security technologies should be viewed as investments in business continuity and sustainable growth rather than simply as costs, he said.

He also identified smart surveillance, cybersecurity, fire safety, access control and integrated security systems as areas with significant potential in Bangladesh.

However, he said a shortage of skilled manpower, inadequate awareness, inconsistent application of international standards and the cost of technology remained major challenges.

Oshi Foundation Chairperson Saki Rezwana and Fire Service and Civil Defence Deputy Director (Dhaka) Md Saleh Uddin also spoke at the event.

BCS Joint Secretary General Md Ahsanul Islam Naushad, Treasurer Abul Hasan, Director Md Iqbal Hossain, members of the association, leaders of different ICT organisations and technology businesses from several countries were also present.

Following the inaugural ceremony, the guests visited different exhibition stalls.

According to the organisers, around 150 leading brands from 10 countries and more than 500 security and safety professionals are taking part in the three-day event.

The exhibitions feature security cameras, smart monitoring systems, cybersecurity technologies, smart software solutions, fire safety technologies, personal protective equipment (PPE), occupational health and safety equipment and other security-related products and services.

Two seminars on security, workplace safety, technology use and the future of the industrial sector will also be held during the expo.

The organisers said the seminars would provide opportunities for experts and industry stakeholders to exchange knowledge and experience and develop business networks and partnerships.

Visitors can attend the exhibitions free of charge, but online registration is required.