The medical profession needs to be further developed in continuation of the progress already made in the healthcare sector of the country, said National Professor Brig (Retd) Dr Abdul Malik.

Malik, also the founder and president of the National Heart Foundation, was speaking at the reception of National Professors Dr A K Azad Khan and Mahmud Hasan today.

The Association of Physicians of Bangladesh (APB) organised the reception at the Pan Pacific Sonargaon Hotel in Dhaka with the sponsorship of Incepta Pharmaceuticals Limited. A scientific session was also arranged there.

Addressing the programme as chief guest, Malik said, "We have made a lot of progress in providing medical care in the country. In this continuity, the medical profession needs to be further developed."

"At the same time, we all have to work honestly in the medical profession from our respective positions. We have to take care of the overall welfare of the people of the country," he added.

Malik said those who were given the reception here are both enlightened and compassionate people. The government has awarded them as National Professor in recognition of their efficiency and continuous efforts in the field of human health protection, he said.

"It is our great achievement. We have to remember that we have a lot of talent in the current generation. We have to give them the right direction."

Prof Kazi Deen Mohammad, president of Bangladesh College of Physicians and Surgeons, and Prof Dr ABM Abdullah, prime minister's personal physician, addressed the programme as special guests.

Prof Dr Syed Atiqul Haque made an introductory speech while Dr Shahajada Selim and Prof AHM Raushan described about Dr A K Azad Khan and Mahmud Hasan at the ceremony chaired by Prof Dr Muhammad Rafiqul Alam, president of the Association of Physicians of Bangladesh.

Prof Dr A K Azad Khan and Prof Mahmud Hasan have been appointed as National Professor for their unique contribution to medical services, medical education and research, said a press release.

Earlier in the day, a scientific session on 'Diabetic and Insulin: 1921 and Beyond' was held there. Prof Dr Zafar Ahmed Latif delivered the keynote speech. Prof Dr Farroq Pathan, Prof Kazi Tariqul Islam, Prof AHM Nazmul Hasan, Prof Khan Abul Kalam Azad and Prof Mir Jamal Uddin were present as the panel speakers.