BML CEO Shareef appointed chairman of Asian Bankers Association

Mohamed Shareef, CEO and Managing Director of Bank of Maldives (BML), has been appointed Chairman of the Asian Bankers Association (ABA), becoming the first Maldivian to hold the position. His appointment takes effect on 31 July 2026 and was made by the ABA Board in accordance with the Association’s Charter.

Shareef brings extensive leadership experience within the ABA. He served as Vice Chairman from 2018 to 2020, contributing to the Association’s strategic priorities and helping strengthen collaboration among member banks across the region. He was reappointed Vice Chairman in 2025, reflecting continued confidence in his leadership.

Commenting on his appointment, Shareef said: “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.”

In response to Shareef’s acceptance of the ABA leadership position, ABA Secretary-Treasurer Dr. Darson Chiu expressed appreciation to Shareef for his continued commitment to the ideals of the Association, and assured him of the Secretariat’s strong support in his efforts to achieve ABA’s objective of promoting the further growth and development not only of its member banks but of the whole banking industry of the region.

Established in 1981, the Asian Bankers Association is a leading regional organisation representing banks and banking associations across Asia. It serves as an important platform for banking leaders, policymakers, regulators, and international financial institutions, promoting policy dialogue, professional capacity building, and the exchange of best practices among member institutions.

Shareef’s appointment marks a significant milestone for both Bank of Maldives and the Maldives, strengthening the country’s representation in regional banking leadership and reflecting the confidence placed in his experience by the Association’s member banks. Bank of Maldives will host this year’s ABA Conference from 1 to 3 September 2026.