Zarif Faiaz

Bangladesh, Dhaka

Sub-Editor, Tech and Startup at The Daily Star (Bangladesh)

Journalist, researcher, and comms expert based in Bangladesh. Bylines in @AJEnglish, @Diplomat_APAC, @dailystarnews, @DhakaTribune. RT ≠ endorsement.

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Articles

Key considerations for getting bancassurance

1 week ago | thedailystar.net | Zarif Faiaz

In Bangladesh, bancassurance is gradually becoming a popular and convenient way for customers to purchase insurance products through their banks. This service allows individuals to access both life and non-life insurance policies directly from their trusted banking institutions, often alongside their regular banking transactions.
Why it’s wise to start insurance at an early age

1 week ago | thedailystar.net | Zarif Faiaz

Starting insurance early is one of the smartest financial decisions a person can make—especially in Bangladesh, where insurance penetration remains low while the need for financial protection is rising. Early adoption not only safeguards against unforeseen risks but also brings long-term financial advantages that grow in value over time. One major benefit of starting young is the cost advantage.
Disinformation campaigns target women and minorities in Bangladesh: Study

2 weeks ago | thedailystar.net | Zarif Faiaz

In the lead-up to Bangladesh's January 2024 general elections, Facebook became a digital battlefield—not just for political rhetoric, but for the insidious spread of gender-based disinformation. A comprehensive study by the Tech Global Institute has shed light on how coordinated networks exploit social media platforms to disseminate gendered abuse, disproportionately targeting women and marginalised communities in Bangladesh.
Rewriting the future: Bangladeshi innovation in home appliances

3 weeks ago | thedailystar.net | Zarif Faiaz

The domestic appliance sector in Bangladesh is no longer playing catch-up with global markets, in many cases, it is leading them. Over the past decade, local brands like Walton and Jamuna have redefined what consumers can expect from their refrigerators, air conditioners, and other essential household devices. Their innovations go far beyond simple energy efficiency or cosmetic upgrades.
Too old to hire? The quiet bias keeping skilled professionals out of jobs

3 weeks ago | thedailystar.net | Zarif Faiaz

In a world that prizes innovation and adaptability, one would assume experience is a critical asset. Yet, for many older professionals, particularly those over 50, the job market tells a different story—one where decades of service are quietly disregarded in favour of youth. Age discrimination, or ageism, in the workplace remains a pervasive but often under-acknowledged issue globally, and Bangladesh is no exception. Ageism does not wear a name tag.
The skills premium: how AI became essential for marketers

1 month ago | thedailystar.net | Zarif Faiaz

The marketing world is undergoing a seismic transformation. As generative artificial intelligence (gen AI) matures from a technical novelty into a strategic necessity, marketing professionals are being forced to adapt at a pace unprecedented in recent memory.
The colonial legacy in our digital infrastructure

1 month ago | thedailystar.net | Zarif Faiaz

How Bangladesh and the Global South remain trapped in digital dependence The history of colonialism is often understood as a physical phenomenon: the subjugation of nations, the extraction of resources, and the imposition of foreign systems of governance. However, in the 21st century, colonialism has evolved into something more subtle yet equally pervasive—digital colonialism.
Oppo A5 pro: Tough on drops, easy on the wallet

2 months ago | thedailystar.net | Zarif Faiaz

We recently got our hands on the Oppo A5 Pro, the latest addition to Oppo's budget-friendly lineup — and what stood out straight away wasn't the sleek design or the big battery (though both are there). It was the feel. The solid, slightly weighty build gave the sense that this phone was made to take a hit — and, as it turns out, it was. Over the past few days, we've been testing the A5 Pro across everyday conditions — and deliberately dropped it more than once. Here's our review.
How to build a positive work culture in your office

2 months ago | thedailystar.net | Zarif Faiaz

The culture cure In today's competitive business landscape, fostering a positive work culture, boosting employee morale, and enhancing team cohesion are not just desirable—they are essential for organisational success. Companies that prioritise these elements often experience increased productivity, reduced turnover, and a more engaged workforce.
Honouring women leaders driving change

Mar 8, 2025 | thedailystar.net | Zarif Faiaz

The Daily Star and UNDP present the fifth edition of Nirbhoya, celebrating five extraordinary women who are leading transformation in their communities through resilience, innovation, and empowerment. Nazrul Islam Ritu made history as the first elected chairperson from Bangladesh's hijra (third gender) community, transforming the Trilochanpur Union Parishad in Jhenaidah with inclusive leadership.