Bhatkal: Prominent community leader, former President of Anjuman Hami-e-Muslimeen, and a key figure associated with several educational and social organisations, S.M. Syed Khalilur Rehman passed away in Dubai at the age of 86 after a brief illness. He was laid to rest at Al Qusais cemetery.
Hailing from Bhatkal’s culturally rich Nawayat community, Syed Khalil was a source of inspiration and pride for his hometown. He was among the first chartered accountants from Bhatkal, earning widespread respect for his financial expertise and leadership.
Khalil ventured to Gulf in 1978, where his dedication and commitment played a crucial role in the success of the Galdari Company in Dubai over three decades.
Beyond his business accomplishments, Syed Khalil was deeply committed to social service, education and media. As a strong advocate of girls’ education, he worked tirelessly to establish and support many institutions that provide opportunities for the underprivileged.
During his tenure as President and General Secretary of Anjuman Hami-e-Muslimeen, Mr. Khalil played a transformative role in elevating the organisations’ educational institutions to new heights. He was instrumental in establishing numerous schools and colleges in Bhatkal and the surrounding areas. Following his demise, several educational institutions, including all Anjuman institutions, the renowned Jamia Islamia seminary, Shams English Medium School, Naunihal Central School, Ali Public School, Madrasa Islahul Banaat and Ideal English medium school Kumta declared a day of mourning.
He was a founding member of Dubai chapter of The Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) serving as its chairman from 1987 to 1994.
He served as general manager of Khaleej Times, chairman of Maadhyama Publications, Mangalore which publishes Vartha Bharathi and Sahil Online Bhatkal, a web-based news platform. He was a trustee of several media companies in both Dubai and India.
His passing away is marked as the end of an era for expatriates from India in the UAE and beyond.
