Sk. Bashir Uddin Receives the ‘Best Business Person of the Year’ Award at the 22nd DHL-The Daily Star Bangladesh Business Awards
AkijBashir Group is proud to announce that its Managing Director, Mr. Sk. Bashir Uddin, has been awarded the ‘Best Business Person of the Year’ at the 22nd DHL-The Daily Star Bangladesh Business Awards. This recognition highlights his impactful leadership, drive for excellence, and dedicated efforts to advance business innovation and social responsibility in Bangladesh.
A Legacy of Excellence and Innovation
Sk. Bashir Uddin, son of the late Sk. Akij Uddin, established the AkijBashir Group following the division of the Akij Group among the founder’s sons. Today, AkijBashir Group operates as a diversified conglomerate with 18 business units spanning ceramics, particle board, tableware, bathware, jute, packaging, tea plantations, and glass. With operations in three countries and exports to over 25 nations, the group continues to uphold the high standards associated with the Akij name while pushing new boundaries in each industry.
Under his leadership, AkijBashir Group has created employment opportunities for 26,000 people. Sk. Bashir Uddin prioritizes setting up manufacturing units over trading, believing it significantly contributes to the nation’s economic growth and job creation.
Balancing Business Growth with Sustainability
As a forward-thinking business leader, Sk. Bashir Uddin has implemented several initiatives that combine business growth with environmental responsibility. AkijBashir Group actively adopts sustainable practices across its operations, recognizing the environmental impact of industrial processes and striving to align with global sustainability goals, such as achieving net-zero carbon emissions.
The group focuses on energy efficiency, renewable energy integration, water conservation, and innovative manufacturing processes, including the use of biomass for energy needs. Sk. Bashir Uddin’s notable contributions include the development of a patented jute retting process that enables cultivation twice a year while significantly reducing water dependency. In addition, his focus on sustainable product development, such as manufacturing particle boards from tree branches instead of solid wood, has contributed to reducing deforestation by nearly 5%. These efforts highlight his dedication to creating a positive environmental impact while driving business growth.
Promoting Inclusivity Through Design
Sk. Bashir Uddin’s commitment to social responsibility is evident in his inclusive product innovations and community initiatives. He introduced braille-embossed tiles to support the visually impaired, installing them free of charge in hospitals across Bangladesh, which has earned international recognition as a model for inclusive design. Beyond this, Sk. Bashir Uddin has also launched initiatives to empower third gender communities, including programs aimed at providing employment and social integration opportunities for third-gender individuals, enabling them to live respectful and independent lives.
A Leader Driven by Values
Mr. Sk. Bashir Uddin’s leadership is grounded in the values imparted by his father: integrity, quality, and innovation. He views business as a means to foster growth, serve society, and make a difference. This award recognizes his impactful contributions to the business world and the community, encouraging others to adopt ethical business practices and pursue sustainable innovation.
The AkijBashir Group congratulates Mr. Sk. Bashir Uddin on this significant achievement and looks forward to more success under his thoughtful leadership.
The DHL-The Daily Star Bangladesh Business Awards aim to honor business leaders for their impact on the economy and society. This year’s awards were given in four categories: Business Person of the Year, Outstanding Woman in Business, Enterprise of the Year, and Best Financial Institution of the Year.
