Bangladesh has lost one of its foremost visionaries and a pioneer of the insurance industry. Sheikh Kabir Hossain passed away on 14 February at the age of 84 following a sudden cardiac complication. He had been receiving treatment for age-related health issues at a private hospital in Dhaka, where he breathed his last.
Born in 1942, Sheikh Kabir Hossain was widely recognised as the first nephew of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the founding president of independent Bangladesh. His educational journey began at a primary school in Dhaka, culminating in postgraduate studies at the University of Dhaka. Throughout his academic and professional life, he embodied progressive thought, leaving an indelible mark on Bangladesh’s economic and insurance sectors.
Sheikh Kabir Hossain’s leadership in the insurance industry was transformative. In 2011, he was elected President of the Bangladesh Insurance Association (BIA), a position he held for 13 years until 2024. Under his stewardship, the sector witnessed unprecedented growth and modernisation. He introduced innovative policies and reforms that modernised the insurance landscape, expanded investment opportunities, and integrated advanced technology into the industry. In addition, he served as Chairman of both Sonar Bangla Insurance and Fareast Islamic Life Insurance, shaping corporate governance and strategic development.
His influence extended well beyond the insurance sector. Sheikh Kabir Hossain played pivotal roles in various national and international institutions, including the Private Universities Association of Bangladesh, the Bangladesh Red Crescent Society, and Lions Clubs International, where he served as an international director. His commitment to education, humanitarian service, and international collaboration had a profound societal impact.
A summary of his key positions and tenures is presented below:
| Position / Institution | Tenure / Description |
|---|---|
| Bangladesh Insurance Association (BIA) | 2011–2024, President |
| Sonar Bangla Insurance | Chairman |
| Fareast Islamic Life Insurance | Chairman |
| Private Universities Association of Bangladesh | Chairman |
| Bangladesh Red Crescent Society | Chairman |
| Lions Clubs International | International Director |
Sheikh Kabir Hossain’s vision and leadership not only modernised Bangladesh’s insurance sector but also spurred advancements in investment, technology, education, and social welfare. His legacy is a blueprint for innovation, ethical leadership, and civic responsibility.
Bangladesh mourns the loss of a sagacious and progressive leader. His perspective, humanitarian contributions, and dedication to the development of society and the insurance industry will remain an enduring source of inspiration for generations to come. Sheikh Kabir Hossain’s memory and teachings will continue to resonate in the spheres of both economic growth and social welfare.