Thursday, 21st May 2026
Khabor Wala Desk
Published: 24th February 2026, 12:51 PM
Sheikh Kabir Hossain, a towering figure in Bangladesh’s insurance sector and former President of the Bangladesh Insurance Association (BIA), passed away on 14 February at the age of 84. He had been receiving treatment at a private hospital in Dhaka and had long battled age-related health complications.
Born in 1942, Mr Hossain was a first cousin of the late Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, the founding father of Bangladesh. He completed his postgraduate studies at the University of Dhaka, laying the educational foundation for a career that would leave an indelible mark on the country’s financial landscape.
A visionary leader, Mr Hossain was first elected President of the BIA in 2011 and remarkably held the position for 13 consecutive years. During his tenure, he oversaw significant reforms and modernization initiatives that strengthened Bangladesh’s insurance industry, helping it adapt to global standards and expand access to financial protection for individuals and businesses alike.
In addition to his leadership at BIA, Mr Hossain chaired prominent insurance firms including Sonar Bangla Insurance and FarEast Islamic Life Insurance, guiding them through periods of growth and strategic innovation. His influence extended beyond the insurance domain: he also served as Chairman of the Association of Private Universities of Bangladesh and the Bangladesh Red Crescent Society, demonstrating a deep commitment to education, humanitarian work, and civil society. Furthermore, he was appointed International Director of Lions Clubs International, reflecting his engagement in global service initiatives.
Colleagues and contemporaries remember him as a visionary reformer whose strategic insight, dedication, and ethical leadership profoundly shaped both the insurance sector and wider social development initiatives in Bangladesh.
| Year | Position / Organisation | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1942 | Birth | Born in Bangladesh; first cousin of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman |
| – | Education | Completed postgraduate studies, University of Dhaka |
| 2011 | President, Bangladesh Insurance Association | Held the post for 13 years; led sector reforms |
| – | Chairman, Sonar Bangla Insurance | Oversaw corporate growth and strategic planning |
| – | Chairman, FarEast Islamic Life Insurance | Advanced company operations and market presence |
| – | Chairman, Association of Private Universities of Bangladesh | Promoted higher education initiatives |
| – | Chairman, Bangladesh Red Crescent Society | Engaged in humanitarian and social work |
| – | International Director, Lions Clubs International | Represented Bangladesh in global service activities |
Sheikh Kabir Hossain’s death marks the end of an era for Bangladesh’s insurance and civil society sectors. His legacy continues to inspire leaders in finance, education, and humanitarian service.
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