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BML CEO Mohamed Shareef Becomes First Maldivian Appointed As Asia’s ABA Chairman

Bank of Maldives CEO Mohamed Shareef has been appointed Chairman of the Asian Bankers Association, making him the first Maldivian to hold the prestigious regional post. Shareef assumed office on Friday, with BML also set to host the annual ABA conference in Malé this coming September.

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BML CEO Mohamed Shareef, addressing to shareholders in a previously held AGM - Photo: BMLofficial meeting -

Bank of Maldives CEO Mohamed Shareef has made history by becoming the first Maldivian appointed as Chairman of the Asian Bankers Association to lead regional banking collaboration.

Bank of Maldives (BML) CEO and Managing Director Mohamed Shareef officially assumed office as Chairman of the Asian Bankers Association (ABA) on Friday following a board decision.

The appointment marks the first time a Maldivian professional has been named to head the prominent regional banking body in its 45-year history.

The appointment marks the first time a Maldivian professional has been named to head the prominent regional banking body in its 45-year history.

Key Highlights and Career Timeline

  • Appointee: Mohamed Shareef (CEO & MD, Bank of Maldives).
  • Previous ABA Service: Served as Vice Chairman from 2018 to 2020, and re-appointed to the post in 2025.
  • Association Profile: Founded 45 years ago, representing major banks and financial institutions across Asia.
  • Upcoming Event: BML will host the annual ABA Conference in the Maldives from September 1 to 3, 2026.

Executive Statements

Expressing gratitude to the board, Shareef stated that serving in the role is a privilege and expressed his commitment to enhancing ties among member institutions to drive Asian banking growth.

ABA Secretary-Treasurer Dr. Dawson Chiu praised Shareef’s dedication to upholding association values, assuring the full support of the secretariat toward achieving regional financial development goals.

Regional Significance

BML noted that Shareef’s leadership at the ABA represents a major milestone for both the bank and the Maldives, significantly strengthening the nation’s presence in international financial governance.

Conference Host

The appointment comes as the Maldives prepares to host banking leaders and regulators from across the region for the 2026 ABA Conference scheduled for early September in Malé.

#Bank Of Maldives
#Asian Bankers Association