Bank of Maldives (BML) Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director Mohamed Shareef has been appointed Chairman of the Asian Bankers Association (ABA).
This marks the first time a Maldivian has been appointed to the position. In line with a decision by the ABA Board, Shareef officially assumed the role on 31 July 2026.
Shareef has previously served in the ABA's leadership, holding the position of Vice Chairman from 2018 to 2020. During his tenure, he contributed to advancing the association's strategic objectives and worked to strengthen collaboration among member banks across the region. In recognition of his leadership and contributions, he was reappointed to the leadership team in 2025.
Commenting on his appointment, Shareef said he was deeply honoured by the confidence placed in him by the ABA Board and its member banks. He described it as a privilege to serve the association in this capacity and said he looked forward to working closely with the Board, the Secretariat and member institutions to strengthen cooperation among banks and support the continued development of Asia's banking industry.
BML said ABA Secretary-Treasurer Dr Darsan Chiu welcomed Shareef's appointment and acknowledged his commitment to advancing the association's objectives. Dr Chiu also assured him of the Secretariat's full support in achieving the association's goals and promoting the growth and development of the banking sector across the region in collaboration with member banks.
Established in 1981, the Asian Bankers Association is the leading regional organisation representing banks and banking associations across Asia. Its primary role is to enhance policy dialogue and capacity building by bringing together banking leaders, policymakers, regulators and international financial institutions. The association also facilitates the sharing of best practices with member institutions to help address emerging challenges in the banking industry.
According to BML, Shareef's appointment is a significant achievement for both the Bank of Maldives and the Maldives. The bank said the appointment would further strengthen the Maldives' representation in regional banking leadership and reflects the confidence ABA member banks have in Shareef's experience and leadership.
This year's ABA Conference is scheduled to be held in the Maldives from 1 to 3 September and will be hosted by the Bank of Maldives.