Habib, reverently known as H.M.,
was the prodigy of Mohamedali Habib, the philanthropist, who founded Habib Bank
Ltd in 1941.
H.M was born on April 6th 1936. A
financial wizard, he followed in the footsteps of his father to build on the
Habib Empire in banking, with branches worldwide.
He had 60 years of banking
experience and was known for his razor sharp business acumen.He was considered
the main Architect of Habib Bank AG Zurich.
In 1974, post nationalization of
Banks in Pakistan, he, along with his elder brother and cousin, started
building Habib Bank AG Zurich, which was founded in Switzerland in the year
1967.
During the last four decades,
under the leadership of H.M., Habib Bank AG Zurich has grown to a substantial
sized bank; According to the "Banker" magazine of Financial Times,
England (July 2013 Issue). Habib Bank A.G Zurich is ranked as the 129th
soundest bank of the world and enjoys a ranking of 573rd amongst the top 1000
banks in the world. All this could only be possible with the grace of Allah.
Through H.M's relentless and uncanny ability to "run" with
opportunity, the bank attained the growth and reputation it has. Very few
people can achieve what H.M. achieved in his lifetime. A beacon of light, a
pillar of support for the Habib Family, he was larger than life. A generous,
patient, humble and benevolent individual; His generosity earned him the title
of "Raja Seth" among his employees. He was father not only to his
children, but also to other poor families in Pakistan and overseas. Like his
father, he championed social causes; his charitable works included education
(abroad and local), marriages, feeding and building houses for the poor.
He loved flying planes and
founded the All Pakistan Aero Modeling Association of Pakistan in 1959, of
which he was the President. The latter was recognized by the Federation
Aeronautique International (FAI) in 1961. His Association was upgraded as an
"Active Member" in 1999 by the FAI.
In 1959, he secured the first
position in World championship of A2 Model Gilders (along with his younger
brother), putting Pakistan on the map. His glider was called "Raza".
A passionate man, with a zest for
living and well known for his generosity of spirit among his colleagues and
friends. He was sought by one and all for his sincere and genuine advice in all
aspects of life.
He passed away suddenly on 4th
September 2013 in London. He was 77 years old. He always wanted to
"go" in his shoes and it seems Allah granted his wish.
On H. M. Habib the Banker, Pakistan Post is issuing a Commemorative Postage Stamp of Rs.8/-denomination on April 6, 2014.
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