BIAC and SAGE Mediation collaborate to Promote ADR through MoU

Bangladesh International Arbitration Centre (BIAC) and Sage Mediation have recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at enhancing collaboration and promoting Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) practices in Bangladesh and Singapore.
The MoU, signed by Mr. Muhammad A. (Rumee) Ali, Vice Chairman of BIAC, and Mr. Aloysius Goh, CEO of SAGE Mediation, marks a significant step in enhancing cross-border cooperation in the field of mediation and arbitration. Both parties emphasized the importance of transforming this MoU into actionable initiatives to address the increasing demand for swift and effective dispute resolution.
During the signing ceremony, Mr. Rumee Ali highlighted BIAC’s ongoing efforts to promote ADR in Bangladesh through a variety of initiatives, including training programmes, seminars, roundtable discussions, international arbitration contests for young students, and the engagement of expert mediators and arbitrators to resolve disputes efficiently. Despite the challenges faced in embedding ADR practices, particularly mediation, in the country, BIAC continues to raise awareness and foster ADR practices in both public and private sectors.
Mr. Goh agreed on the need for proactive steps and revealed that both parties had set an informal goal to complete 10 mediations by Bangladeshi mediators by September 2026. The discussion also included plans for the International Mediator Accreditation Programme (IMAP), where experienced mediators from Singapore will conduct training sessions in Bangladesh. Upon completing the programme, participants will become accredited mediators for both Bangladesh and Singapore, enhancing the pool of qualified professionals in both nations.
The ceremony concluded with a shared commitment to fostering ADR and mediation practices across borders, ensuring timely and effective dispute resolution in the region.
Key representatives from SAGE, including Ms. Samantha Lek, Senior Assistant Director; Mr. Venkatesh Narasiah, Senior Consultant; Mr. Mehernosh Shapoorjee, Senior Consultant; Mr. Gordon Ang, Global Operations Manager; and Ms. Christabelle Tan, Assistant Registrar, along with representatives from BIAC, including Ms. Priyanka Roy, Senior Counsel; Ms. Moyee Mina Haque, Assistant Counsel; and Ms. Rawnak Jahan, Barrister-at-law & Panel Mediator, shared valuable insights on how both organizations can collaborate to further promote mediation practices in their respective countries.