BML CEO Shareef Appointed Chairman of Asian Bankers Association

Mohamed Shareef, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of Bank of Maldives (BML), has been appointed Chairman of the Asian Bankers Association (ABA), becoming the first Maldivian to lead the regional banking body.

The appointment was made by the ABA Board in accordance with the Association's Charter and takes effect on 31 July 2026.

Shareef brings significant experience to the role, having previously served as ABA Vice Chairman from 2018 to 2020, during which he contributed to advancing the Association's strategic priorities and strengthening collaboration among member banks across Asia. He was reappointed Vice Chairman in 2025, reflecting the continued confidence of member institutions in his leadership.

"I am deeply honoured by the confidence and trust placed in me by the Board and member banks of the Asian Bankers Association. It is a privilege to serve the Association in this capacity, and I look forward to working closely with the Board, Secretariat, and member institutions to further strengthen regional collaboration and support the continued development of Asia's banking industry." Shareef said.

ABA Secretary-Treasurer Dr. Darson Chiu congratulated Shareef on assuming the Association's leadership, expressing appreciation for his continued commitment to the ABA's mission. He also assured Shareef of the Secretariat's full support in advancing the Association's objective of promoting the growth and development of its member banks and the broader banking industry across the region.

Established in 1981, the Asian Bankers Association is one of Asia's leading regional banking organisations, representing banks and banking associations from across the continent. The ABA provides a platform for banking leaders, policymakers, regulators and international financial institutions to foster policy dialogue, professional development, and the exchange of industry best practices.

Shareef's appointment marks a historic milestone for both Bank of Maldives and the Maldives, strengthening the country's representation in regional banking leadership and underscoring the confidence placed in his experience by the Association's member banks.

Bank of Maldives will also host the 2026 Asian Bankers Association Conference from 1 to 3 September 2026, bringing together banking leaders from across Asia in the Maldives.