Syed Abdul Rahman Alsagoff


Syed Abdul Rahman Alsagoff was an Arab businessman in the spice trade, and philanthropist who settled in Singapore. He was a descendant of the Islamic Nabī Muhammad.

Personal life

Alsagoff was born in Hadhramawt, in present-day Yemen, Arabian Peninsula. He was Muhammad's thirty-third direct descendant, and had a son called 'Ahmad'. His residence in Singapore, described as "unusual", was located along Java Road.

Career

Alsagoff arrived in Singapore in 1824, alongside his son. As such, Alsagoff is cited as the "first member of the Alsagoff Family to settle in Singapore". Trading mainly spices, his son later established the Alsagoff Company in 1848. Alsagoff was successful in his career, and "dominated the spice trade in the region". He also promoted the welfare of other people.