"Your succession to the post of the prime minister and also as the leader of the nation is a clear manifestation of trust and confidence of the people of Malaysia in your able leadership," she said in a message to her Malaysian counterpart.

Khaleda expressed her confidence that the people of Malaysia would be able to continue development under the wise guidance of Ahmad Badawi.

"I sincerely believe the fraternal relations and the friendly ties between our two countries will be further consolidated during your tenure to the mutual benefit of our two peoples," she said.

The Bangladesh prime minister wished Badawi good health and happiness, as well as continued peace, progress and prosperity of the Malaysian people.

Khaleda Zia also sent a farewell message to former Malaysian prime minister Mahathir Bin Mohamad on his retirement.

"On behalf of the government and the people of Bangladesh, I bid you farewell with a heavy heart, as you voluntarily relinquish the office of the prime minister of Malaysia," she said.

Khaleda praised Mahathir saying that he had contributed in building a nation where people from different religions, races and cultures were living together in peace and harmony.

"Indeed, you have given your people a strong sense of nationhood, a new vision and a sense of pride to be a Malaysian."

She said the world community and the Muslim ummah will always remember the contributions of Mahathir to the cause of peace and friendship, fraternity and uplift of the Muslim ummah.

The prime minister said the wise leadership and bold decisions of Mahathir will always be "a source of inspiration for us."

She wished good health, happiness and long life of Mahathir, and peace, progress and prosperity of Malaysian people.