M Matiul Islam, recognized as a prominent figure in the financial industry, has passed away at 95 years old. His family confirmed his peaceful passing in a statement released today, expressing their deep sorrow and emphasizing his enduring legacy of love, wisdom, and profound influence on those around him.
The funeral prayer, namaz-e-janaza, is scheduled to take place at Azad Mosque in Gulshan following the Jummah prayers tomorrow. Islam’s career commenced in the Pakistan Civil Service in 1952, culminating in his appointment as finance secretary in 1972 post-Bangladesh’s liberation. He was tasked with the challenging responsibility of revitalizing the country’s financial landscape and overseeing the nationalization of the banking sector.
Throughout his illustrious career, Islam held various significant roles, including serving as the Ministry of Industries secretary, alternate executive director at the World Bank, and leading positions at the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), both in Vienna and as the country director in India. His academic achievements include graduating top of his class with a BCom degree from Dhaka University, followed by a Master’s in Public Administration from Harvard University.
In recognition of his exceptional contributions, M Matiul Islam was honored with the “Lifetime Achievement Award” by DHL and The Daily Star in 2011. Furthermore, the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Bangladesh (ICAB) bestowed upon him a lifetime achievement award in 2021.