The first death anniversary of business leader Syed Manzur Elahi was observed on Thursday, recalling his contributions to Bangladesh’s industrial growth, financial sector development and social initiatives.
Syed Manzur Elahi died on March 12 last year at Gleneagles Hospital at the age of 83.
He was widely known as the driving force behind Apex Footwear Limited, helping build the company into one of Bangladesh’s leading footwear brands and a major exporter in the global leather industry.
He also played a role in strengthening the financial sector through his founding involvement in Mutual Trust Bank PLC and Pioneer Insurance Company Limited.
Syed Manzur Elahi served twice as an adviser to Bangladesh’s caretaker government in 1996 and 2001, overseeing ministries including communications, shipping, civil aviation and tourism, posts and telecommunications, and housing and public works.
He was the son of Sir Syed Nasim Ali, chief justice of undivided Bengal.
Syed Manzur Elahi began his professional career at British American Tobacco before entering the leather industry in Dhaka’s Hazaribagh area, a move that later led to the establishment of a footwear and leather enterprise.
He also supported education and civil society through his association with East West University, Sunbeams School, Manusher Jonno Foundation, Freedom Foundation and the Diabetic Association of Bangladesh.
Business leaders and associates said his work continues to inspire entrepreneurs and young leaders across Bangladesh.
