Islamabad:A book titled Syed Babar Ali, A Centennial Tribute, documenting the life and contributions of renowned industrialist, educationist and philanthropist Syed Babar Ali, was launched in Islamabad on Saturday as part of celebrations marking his 100th year.
The book, authored by Muhammad Azfar Ahsan, was launched at a ceremony organised by the Corporate Pakistan Group and Nutshell Group, attended by prominent figures from public life, literature, policymaking and the business community.
Speakers paid rich tribute to Syed Babar Ali for his contributions to Pakistan's industrial development, education, literature, arts and institution-building, describing him as a visionary whose work has had a lasting impact on the country.
Renowned poet and intellectual Iftikhar Arif highlighted Syed Babar Ali's contributions to languages, literature, calligraphy and traditional knowledge, saying his services in preserving Pakistan's cultural and literary heritage were widely underappreciated.
Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb recalled beginning his professional career with Packages Group under Syed Babar Ali's mentorship. He described him as an institution in himself, praising his intellect, vision and extraordinary perspective.
Federal Minister for Climate Change and Environmental Coordination Senator Dr Musadik Malik recalled his interaction with Syed Babar Ali in the 1980s and described him as a rare visionary who recognised opportunities that others could not see. He said Ali's vision extended from industrial development to sustainability.
Former Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee General Zubair Mahmood Hayat said that while the world had many individual success stories, very few people had established lasting institutions on such a scale. He credited Syed Babar Ali with establishing numerous enduring institutions.
Former Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Sohail Aman (2015-2018) highlighted Syed Babar Ali's contributions to economic development and education, particularly the establishment of Lahore University of Management Sciences (LUMS), which he described as an internationally recognised institution.
Chairman Pakistan Mercantile Exchange Nadeem Karamat termed Syed Babar Ali one of the architects of Pakistan's financial landscape, recalling his longstanding engagement with the World Bank, International Finance Corporation and Bank of America.
CEO of Planetive Ayla Majid shared her experiences at LUMS and interactions with Syed Babar Ali, saying his contributions were deeply embedded in Pakistan's industrial and academic landscape.
The book's author, Muhammad Azfar Ahsan, recalled how the idea of writing the tribute emerged in connection with Syed Babar Ali's 100th birthday in June. He said Ali's philosophy had always been to learn from others and expressed gratitude to all those who contributed to the publication.
Ahsan said the book aimed to inspire the younger generation through the life, vision and achievements of Syed Babar Ali.