Rokia Afzal Rahman was a visionary business leader with more human quality, said Md Saiful Islam, president of the Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MCCI), the leading business chamber of the country.

"Her foresightedness was unparallel," Islam told The Daily Star over the phone as he recalled his memories with Rokia Afzal Rahman.

Rahman, who passed away today, was also the president of the MCCI for two terms.

"She had the value and respect for people, which is rare nowadays. She had no hidden agenda," Islam said.

Rahman played a very vital role to portray the country's progresses to the world during the celebration of the MCCI's 110 years of anniversary a few years ago. She was the president of the MCCI when the anniversary was celebrated.

Former Indian President APJ Abdul Kalam came to Dhaka to attend the programme as the chief guest.

"During the celebration of the 110th anniversary, Rokia Afzal Rahman sent a very strong message to the world about the country's achievements."

"During Covid-19, we came to realise that we need to work beyond the border. She used to think like this," Islam said.