The popular community infotainment programme Palonger Hata (Voice of Palong), which amplifies the voices of Rohingya refugees and host community members, has reached a significant milestone with the broadcast of its 400th episode.
To mark the occasion, a special celebration was held on Monday afternoon at a farm premises in Kutupalong, Ukhiya.
The event began at 1:00 pm and was attended by Maphia Mukta, Project Officer and Trainer at DW Akademie; Producer Jisan Pal; Mohammad Shahidul Islam, Deputy Director of Young Power in Social Action (YPSA); Assistant Director Jishu Barua; Cox’s Bazar Focal Person Mohammad Harun; Finance and Admin Officer Mohammad Morshedul Haque; and Project Manager Shihab Jishan. Regular listeners of Palonger Hata were also present at the celebration.
Speakers at the event said Palonger Hata is more than just a radio programme—it serves as a shared information and communication platform for both the Rohingya refugee population in Kutupalong and the surrounding host communities.
The initiative serves as a participatory platform, addressing issues related to health, education, livelihoods, the environment, social cohesion, and humanitarian assistance in simple, accessible language. These stories illuminate the joys and struggles of both communities.
They further noted that one of the programme’s greatest strengths is the direct participation of refugees and residents.
By allowing people to share their own stories, challenges, and aspirations, the programme has fostered trust and connection among listeners.
This participatory approach has not only helped disseminate life-saving information but has also strengthened social harmony and mutual understanding.
Abdul Hamid, a resident of Faliapara, who attended the event, said, “The achievement of 400 episodes of Palonger Hata proves that when marginalized voices are given the right platform, they can play a meaningful role in driving positive social change.”
During the celebration, participants expressed hope that Palonger Hata would further diversify its content, increase youth participation, and continue to strengthen community journalism.
Cox’s Bazar Life Report
Photo: Courtesy
