nn interview: M.A. Sabur: A visionary businessman driving economic growth

M.A. Sabur (CIP) is a distinguished entrepreneur, philanthropist, and a key figure in Bangladesh’s industrial landscape. As the Chairman of Masco Group and a founding director of United Commercial Bank, he has significantly contributed to the country’s economic growth. He was recognised as a Commercially Important Person (CIP) in 2024 by the Government of Bangladesh for his contributions to the national economy.
In an exclusive interview with The New Nation, he shared insights into his business ventures, focusing on the Masco Group and its associated enterprises.
Under the leadership of M.A. Sabur, Masco Group is a 100 per cent export-orientated garment industry that has played a pivotal role in strengthening Bangladesh’s position as the world’s second-largest apparel exporter. Established in 1999, Masco Group has continuously expanded its operations, prioritising innovation, job creation, export growth, and product diversification.
Masco Group integrates cutting-edge smart technology to ensure high-quality garment production. The company has established multiple subsidiaries, specialising in knitting, dyeing, finishing, printing, embroidery, washing, and sewing thread production, allowing seamless fulfillment of client demands while maintaining superior quality standards, Sabur emphasised.
To optimise efficiency and productivity, Masco Group implements Kaizen, 5S, and other lean manufacturing techniques, reducing waste and enhancing output. The company also boasts a strong Research & Development (R&D) team dedicated to continuous innovation, ensuring customer satisfaction and staying ahead of industry trends, he stated.
Sabur said, ‘Currently employing approximately 20,000 workers, Masco Group plans to generate additional 5,000-7,000 jobs by the end of the year, demonstrating its commitment to economic development and employment generation.’
The group chairman reaffirmed the establishment of Masco Picasso Ltd by Masco Group, acknowledging the significance of garment aesthetics and introducing an ultra-modern printing and embroidery facility. Named after the legendary artist Pablo Picasso, this facility is one of the most advanced printing units in South Asia. The investment in high-end technology and state-of-the-art machinery ensures that Masco Picasso Ltd. meets international standards, providing superior quality products to the global market.
He is expanding his business ventures beyond the textile industry into the agricultural sector. In 2014, he founded Masco Dairy Enterprise with the aim of addressing the nutritional needs of children and the elderly people of the country. This initiative seeks to alleviate the shortage of cow’s milk while also creating employment opportunities.
‘Masco Dairy Enterprise is Bangladesh’s first digital cow farm, utilising advanced technology for milk extraction and real-time monitoring of cow health through mobile and computer systems. This innovation ensures pure and adulteration-free dairy products, promoting increased milk consumption for improved national nutrition.’ he elaborated. He shared his company’s commitment to sustainable and eco-friendly production practices. Only government-approved cattle feed is used, and farm employees receive professional training to maintain high-quality standards. Additionally, Masco Dairy Enterprise operates a bio-gas project that converts farm waste into energy, aligning with environmental sustainability goals.
The entrepreneur shared his achievement stories on the outstanding contributions of Masco Dairy Enterprise to industrial development, product manufacturing, and employment generation, which have been widely recognised. The company has received several prestigious awards, including the CIP (Industry) 2021 Award, the President’s Industrial Development Award 2019, and the National Productivity and Quality Excellence Award 2019 (Ministry of Industries). These accolades highlight the company’s dedication to excellence, sustainability, and economic contribution.
A recent milestone in Masco Group’s innovation journey is the inauguration of the “R&D Fabric Showroom” at the Mas
co Central Research and Development Centre. This facility underscores the company’s commitment to fabric innovation and sustainable fashion practices, enhancing textile technology to meet the evolving demands of the global fashion industry.
M.A. Sabur has successfully positioned Masco Group as a global leader in garment manufacturing while making significant contributions to Bangladesh’s agricultural and banking sectors. His visionary leadership, commitment to innovation, and emphasis on sustainability continue to drive Masco Group’s success.
With ongoing advancements in smart manufacturing, sustainable agriculture, and cutting-edge research, Masco Group is poised for further growth, solidifying its impact on Bangladesh’s economy and reinforcing its presence in the international market.
Sabur said, “Together with our dedicated employees and partners, Masco Group will continue to move forward towards a prosperous future.”