Sakh Maulenkulov: The Mining Visionary Who Shaped Kazakhstan's Industry and Kentau's Legacy

Sakh Maulenkulov, a prominent figure in Kazakhstan’s mining industry, was born on 15 June 1926. His career spanned decades, leaving a lasting impact on the sector, the city of Kentau, and its people. Maulenkulov began his working life at 15 as an apprentice electrician at the Khantagy processing plant. During World War II, he contributed to lead production at the Achisay mine and its processing plant.

He studied at Shymkent Mining and Metallurgical College and later at the Kazakh Mining and Metallurgical Institute. His career advanced steadily, leading to roles as director of the Aralsulfat enterprise and head of a department in the South Kazakhstan Council of National Economy.

In 1972, he became director of the Achpolymetall mining and processing plant. Under his leadership, it grew into one of the Soviet Union’s leading non-ferrous metallurgy enterprises. By the mid-1980s, the plant employed around 11,000 people from 26 ethnic backgrounds.

In 1980, he rescued people from a burning school in Kentau, showcasing his bravery. After retiring, he remained active, writing books and founding the Köp Jasy ('Long Life') society. Maulenkulov passed away in 2017. His legacy lives on through his books, the mines and quarries he helped develop, and the city of Kentau. His contributions to industry and community remain widely recognised.