Samson H. Chowdhury set standard of honesty, integrity in business: speakers

Samson H. Chowdhury, the visionary founder of Square Group, was remembered on Saturday as a pioneering business leader who set the highest standards of honesty and integrity in Bangladesh’s private sector.

Speakers at a commemorative discussion marking his 100th birth anniversary said Samson H. Chowdhury was a rare example of an entrepreneur who placed the country’s economic development and ethical values above personal gain or political considerations.

The event, jointly organised by the Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MCCI) and the daily Bonik Barta, was held at the Samson H. Chowdhury Centre, Dhaka Club.

Mahbubur Rahman, president of ICC Bangladesh (ICCB), said Samson H. Chowdhury worked tirelessly to build a private-sector-led economy rooted in transparency and fair competition.

“Leaders like Samson Chowdhury focused on improving the business environment for the greater good of the nation rather than pursuing narrow self-interests,” he said.

Mr. Rahman highlighted Samson H. Chowdhury’s contributions to Bangladesh’s healthcare and pharmaceutical sectors through the local production of raw materials.

He also recalled Samson H. Chowdhury’s vision behind establishing Square Hospital, initially planned as a joint venture with a Singapore-based group, though the idea was later shelved.

Former Commerce Minister Amir Khasru Mahmud Chowdhury praised Samson H. Chowdhury as a model of ethical entrepreneurship.

“Many believe it’s impossible to grow a business without external support or political connections. Samson Chowdhury proved otherwise,” he said, adding that Samson H. Chowdhury’s wife, Anita Chowdhury, played a significant role in his success.

Former NBR Chairman M.A. Majid shared his experiences working with Samson H. Chowdhury, describing him as one of Bangladesh’s most consistent and highest taxpayers – a reflection of his belief in corporate responsibility.

He recalled an incident during a caretaker government when Square Group won a government project fairly.

“Despite winning on merit, Samson personally met the chief adviser and declined the contract because his son was serving as a government adviser at the time,” Mr Majid said, calling it a powerful demonstration of ethics in action.

The former NBR chairman also noted that Samson H. Chowdhury often advised policymakers to create a facilitative environment for businesses and guided him on solving issues such as HS Code complexities, which continue to challenge businesses today.

Former MCCI President C.K. Hyder shared a personal memory that reflected Samson H. Chowdhury’s character.

“On a flight to Seattle for a WTO conference, Samson Chowdhury gave his sweater to a fellow passenger who was cold and stopping in Frankfurt. It was a small act, but it showed the depth of his kindness,” Mr Hyder recalled.

Mahfuz Anam, Editor of The Daily Star, said Samson H. Chowdhury’s integrity was not limited to his business dealings.

“As a founder of Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB), he believed even small compromises with corruption could grow to undermine an entire system,” Mr Anam said.

He added, “Samson never relied on political favors. He showed that ethical practices and success can go hand in hand.”

Sanchia Chowdhury, Samson H. Chowdhury’s granddaughter, highlighted his forward-thinking mindset and openness to innovation.

“He always embraced new technologies and gadgets,” she said, recalling that he was the first Bangladeshi entrepreneur to introduce an Effluent Treatment Plant (ETP) in the garment sector.

“Many thought it was a wasteful expense at the time,” she noted.

“But in 2009, the government recognised our factory for its environmentally friendly practices, proving his foresight.”

Syed Nasim Manzur, Managing Director of Apex Footwear, spoke about Samson H. Chowdhury’s dedication to quality.

“One of our Italian partners was amazed to see the aquaculture facilities inside Square’s factories, built solely for workers’ welfare,” he said.

Tapan Chowdhury, Samson H. Chowdhury’s son and Managing Director of Square Pharmaceuticals, said his father’s values shaped not only Square Group but also his own career in business and trade leadership.

He recounted how Samson H. Chowdhury once raised his voice during a phone conversation with Finance Minister Shah AMS Kibria, frustrated that the government had changed a key policy without consulting business leaders.

“This showed how deeply he cared about creating policies that were fair and transparent,” Mr Tapan said.

MCCI President Kamran T. Rahman and Bonik Barta Editor Dewan Hanif Mahmud also paid tribute to Samson H. Chowdhury’s enduring contributions.

The session was moderated by Barrister Nahid Kabir, with Lalon songs performed by Dolly Mondol – a favorite of Samson H. Chowdhury – bringing a personal touch to the evening.

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