Saturday
1st Aug 2026
Dhivehi Edition
Bank of Maldives (BML) CEO and Managing Director Mohamed Shareef, Photo: TMJ
Bank of Maldives (BML) Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director Mohamed Shareef has been appointed Chairman of the Asian Bankers Association (ABA), becoming the first Maldivian to lead the regional banking body in its 45-year history.
According to BML, Shareef officially assumed the role following a decision by the ABA Board. He previously served as the Association's Vice Chairman from 2018 to 2020, during which he contributed to advancing its strategic priorities and strengthening collaboration among member banks across Asia.
The bank said Shareef's appointment follows his reappointment to the leadership position in 2025, reflecting the confidence placed in his leadership and experience.
Commenting on his appointment, Shareef thanked the ABA Board and its member banks for their trust. He said it was a privilege to serve the Association and pledged to work closely with the Board, Secretariat and member institutions to strengthen cooperation and support the continued development of Asia's banking industry.
ABA Secretary-Treasurer Dr. Darson Chiu welcomed Shareef's appointment, praising his longstanding contributions to the Association. He expressed confidence that Shareef's leadership, together with the Secretariat and member institutions, would help advance the organisation's strategic objectives and further regional cooperation.
Established 45 years ago, the Asian Bankers Association is the region's leading banking organisation representing banks and banking associations across Asia. The Association works with policymakers, regulators and international financial institutions on banking policy, capacity building and the sharing of industry best practices.
BML said Shareef's appointment is a significant milestone for both the bank and the Maldives, strengthening the country's representation in regional banking leadership. The ABA's annual conference is scheduled to be held in the Maldives from September 1 to 3 this year, hosted by Bank of Maldives.