Syed Manzur Elahi, Chairperson BoT of EWU and Visionary Business Leader Passes Away
Mar 12, 2025
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Syed Manzur Elahi, a revered business leader, philanthropist, and esteemed public servant, who peacefully departed on 12 March 2025, morning at a hospital in Singapore at the age of 83. Mr. Elahi, born in 1942, was a titan of Bangladeshi industry, leaving an indelible mark on the nation’s economic landscape. He was the Chairperson of the Board of Trustees at East West University, the founding Chairman of Mutual Trust Bank PLC, and the Chairman of Apex Group, a leading conglomerate he established from scratch.
Educated at St. Xavier's College, Kolkata, and the University of Dhaka, where he earned a Master's degree in Economics, Mr. Elahi began his career at British American Tobacco. However, his innate entrepreneurial drive led him to establish Apex Group, which became a vital contributor to Bangladesh’s economic growth. Beyond his business acumen, Syed Manzur Elahi was a dedicated public servant. He served as an Advisor to the Caretaker Government of Bangladesh in 1996 and 2001, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to national development. He also held prominent leadership positions in organizations such as the Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Dhaka University Alumni Association, further solidifying his dedication to public service.
Mr. Elahi has left behind a son, a daughter, and grandchildren. His Janaza prayer will be held on 13 March (Thursday) 2025 at EWU Premises at 10.30 am and Gulshan Azad Masque after the Zohr prayer. He will buried at the Banani graveyard. The East West University community mourns the loss of their esteemed Chairperson. Prof. Dr. Mohammed Farashuddin, Chief Adviser of the University and a close friend of Mr. Elahi, expressed his deep sorrow, stating, "Manzur was a visionary and compassionate individual, always dedicated to the progress of our country and its people. Losing a person of his calibre is an immeasurable loss for the East West University family. We pray for the eternal peace of the departed soul."
