Syed Manzur Elahi, the esteemed Chairman of Apex Group and a pioneering figure in Bangladesh’s industrial landscape, passed away at the age of 83 in Singapore this morning. His death, attributed to age-related complications, marks a significant loss for the country’s business sector.
Elahi, who was also the founding chairman of Mutual Trust Bank PLC (MTB), died around 7:30 am while receiving treatment. According to Syed Almas Kabir, former President of BASIS and Elahi’s nephew, his weakened immune system due to age contributed to complications from lung and stomach infections.
A trailblazer in the leather and footwear industries, Elahi played a vital role in shaping Bangladesh’s economic landscape following the country’s independence. He founded Apex Tannery, laying the groundwork for one of Bangladesh’s most successful business ventures. His vision led to the creation of Apex Footwear, which opened doors for Bangladesh in the global shoe export market. By adopting rigorous Japanese quality control standards, Elahi positioned the nation as a competitive player in the international footwear industry. His commitment to quality and innovation helped Bangladesh secure a foothold in global markets, particularly in Europe, where he established important partnerships with Italian footwear magnate Adelchi.
Under Elahi’s leadership, Apex Footwear emerged as a key player in Bangladesh’s leather goods and footwear exports, pioneering efforts to attract international buyers and enhance the country’s standing in the global supply chain. His contributions significantly bolstered the economy and created numerous job opportunities.
In recognition of his outstanding achievements, Elahi received several prestigious awards, including the “Business Executive of the Year 2000” from the American Chamber of Commerce (AMCHAM), Bangladesh, and the “Business Person of the Year 2002” award. His influence extended beyond the business realm, serving as an advisor to the Caretaker Government of Bangladesh in both 1996 and 2001, underscoring his commitment to national development.
