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BUSINESS • 29/09/2025 07:55 PM

Labuan IBFC Makes Global Financial Index Debut, Drives Islamic Digital Innovation

LABUAN, Sept 29 (Bernama) -- Labuan International Business and Financial Centre (Labuan IBFC) achieved a milestone with its maiden inclusion in the Global Financial Centre Index (GFCI), cementing its reputation as a growing international financial hub.

Labuan Financial Services Authority (Labuan FSA) director general Affendi Rashdi said Labuan IBFC ranked 60th among 120 international financial centres worldwide, placing it among the top 16 global centres projected to grow in significance over the next two to three years.

“This is a strong starting point that reflects our growing global prominence. Labuan IBFC has been recognised for its high reputational advantage and as a relatively deep international specialist centre,” he said at Labuan IBFC’s 35th anniversary celebration today.

Affendi highlighted that Labuan IBFC is now home to nearly 5,000 companies, including more than 800 licensed entities from 124 countries. 

Its digital financial services sector continues to expand with over 100 providers in digital banking, insurtech, crypto asset trading and exchanges.

In Islamic finance, Labuan IBFC has cemented its position as an innovator through the Islamic Digital Asset Centre (IDAC), which has pioneered asset tokenisation and shariah-compliant securities worth US$1.5 billion.

“Labuan IBFC’s leadership in Islamic finance innovations is blending well with our national digital aspirations, aligning with the 13th Malaysia Plan and the National Blockchain Roadmap 2021–2025,” Affendi said.

He also noted the centre’s socio-economic contribution to Labuan, from employment creation to professional growth and retail business support.

Looking ahead, Affendi said Labuan FSA is finalising its next five-year roadmap to deepen niche sectors, foster intra-ASEAN linkages, and complement national efforts in fintech and investment schemes.

“As we look ahead, let us remain bold in our aspirations and unwavering in our commitments. Together, we will shape the next chapter of Labuan IBFC as sustainable, inclusive, and future-ready,” he said.

-- BERNAMA

 

 

 

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