Bank of Maldives (BML) CEO and Managing Director Mohamed Shareef has been appointed Chairman of the Asian Bankers Association (ABA), becoming the first Maldivian to hold the position in the association’s history.
BML said Shareef officially assumed the role on Friday following a decision by the ABA Board.
Shareef previously served as ABA Vice Chairman from 2018 to 2020, where he contributed to advancing the association’s strategic objectives and strengthening cooperation among regional member banks. BML said the board reaffirmed its confidence in his leadership by appointing him as Chairman.
Speaking on his appointment, Shareef thanked the ABA Board and its member banks for their trust.
“It is an honor to serve ABA as Chairman with my experience. My hope is to further strengthen relationships between member banks and work closely with the Board, Secretariat and member associations to support the continued progress of Asia’s banking industry,” he said.
ABA Secretary Treasurer Dr. Darson Chiu praised Shareef’s commitment to the association’s principles and pledged full support for the organization’s development goals and the advancement of the regional banking sector.
Established 45 years ago, the Asian Bankers Association is one of Asia’s leading organizations representing banks and banking associations. It promotes policy dialogue with banking leaders, regulators, policymakers and international financial institutions while supporting capacity building and the sharing of best practices among its members.
BML described Shareef’s appointment as an important milestone for both the bank and the Maldives, saying it further strengthens Maldivian representation in regional banking leadership.
The bank also announced that the 2026 Asian Bankers Association Conference will be held in the Maldives from September 1 to 3.
