A lifetime of lifting people out of poverty

Each of the organisations founded by Sir Fazle Hasan Abed is dedicated to the welfare of people, said National Professor Anisuzzaman yesterday.

“His [Sir Abed] immense contribution is launching a philanthropic organisation, and to support that endeavour he founded several others,” Prof Anisuzzaman said at the qulkhwani of Sir Abed -- founder of Brac, one of the world’s leading development organisations.

While commemorating his great contribution to society, Prof Anisuzzaman further said, “Despite being showered with major honours and recognition at home and abroad, he remained modest till the end.”

Sir Abed’s qulkhwani was held at Gulshan Central Mosque after Asr prayers, according to a press release.

Nobel laureate Dr Muhammad Yunus, Foreign Minister AK Abdul Momen, eminent jurist Dr Kamal Hossain, former finance minister AMA Muhith, renowned economist Rehman Sobhan, lawmaker AKM Rahmatullah, businessman Abdul Awal Mintoo, media personality Shykh Seraj, among others, were present at the qulkhwani.

Foreign Minister Momen said Sir Abed’s demise is an irreparable loss for the country.

“His contribution towards educating and helping the underprivileged become self-sufficient around the world will keep him alive,” said Momen.

On behalf of family members, Sir Abed’s son-in-law and Brac’s Executive Director Asif Saleh expressed his gratitude to all.

“He used to listen to everyone attentively. He gave emphasis to personal problems of family members and colleagues and tried to resolve those,” said Saleh.

He led by example, Brac’s executive director said, adding, “Throughout his life he thought about the development of the people who are lagging behind.”     

Sir Abed breathed his last on December 20 in Dhaka. He was laid to rest on Sunday at Banani graveyard.