BML CEO Mohamed Shareef Named First Maldivian Chair of Asian Bankers Association
- BML CEO Mohamed Shareef became the first Maldivian to chair the Asian Bankers Association, effective 31 July.
- Shareef previously served as ABA Vice Chairman from 2018 to 2020 and was reappointed in 2025.
- The appointment raises the Maldives' regional profile ahead of the ABA Conference BML hosts in September 2026.
Bank of Maldives CEO and Managing Director Mohamed Shareef has been appointed Chairman of the Asian Bankers Association, becoming the first Maldivian to lead the regional banking body.
The appointment took effect on 31 July and was made by the ABA Board under the Association’s Charter. It places a Maldivian banker at the head of an organisation that represents banks and banking associations across Asia.
Shareef has previously held leadership roles within the Association. He served as ABA Vice Chairman from 2018 to 2020 and was reappointed to the position in 2025.
“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 thanked Shareef for his continued commitment to the Association and said the Secretariat would support his work towards advancing the organisation’s objectives for member banks and the wider regional banking industry.
Founded in 1981, the ABA brings together banking leaders, regulators, policymakers and international financial institutions. Its work includes policy dialogue, professional development and the exchange of banking practices among member institutions.
The appointment gives the Maldives a higher profile in regional banking discussions and comes ahead of the ABA Conference, which Bank of Maldives will host from 1 to 3 September 2026.
