AICB Reaffirms Role In Shaping Future-Ready Bankers
KUALA LUMPUR, May 29 (Bernama) -- The Asian Institute of Chartered Bankers (AICB) has reaffirmed the growing importance of nurturing future-ready and ethical banking and finance professionals, amid rising challenges in cybersecurity, data privacy, sustainable finance, and the accelerating pace of digital transformation and fintech.
In a statement, AICB said it had recently held its 8th Chartered Banker Conferment Ceremony, honouring banking professionals who exemplify the highest standards of professional excellence and lifelong learning in an increasingly complex financial environment.
The event was held under the theme “Charting the Growth of Finance”.
Bank Negara Malaysia Governor Datuk Seri Abdul Rasheed Ghaffour, who delivered the special address at the ceremony, said Malaysia has made significant investments in developing talent for its financial sector.
“Over the years, we have built a comprehensive ecosystem of talent affiliates offering training, certification, and forward-looking guidance on the skills needed by the financial industry.
“I also wish to highlight the important role of financial institutions in complementing these efforts through their respective learning and development academies,” he said.
While acknowledging that the financial services sector benefits from a strong talent development ecosystem, he stressed the need for more collective action to future-proof the workforce.
AICB chairman Tan Sri Azman Hashim said he was deeply honoured by the recognition received at the event.
“This award reflects the collective progress we have made as an industry in championing ethical professionalism in banking.
“Banking transcends numbers — it is about trust, stewardship and purpose. I hope this inspires more professionals to embrace continuous learning and lead with integrity in shaping the future of finance,” he said.
AICB chief executive Edward Ling said that in today’s environment, professionalism and upskilling in banking are no longer optional but essential.
“At AICB, we are committed to expanding our growing community of over 800 Chartered Bankers in the next two years, empowering the industry with future-ready capabilities.
“Through our robust education programmes, Future Skills Framework, and thought leadership in areas such as digital innovation and sustainable finance, we aim to equip members with the critical skills and professional foundations needed to navigate and innovate the future of banking and finance,” he said.
The ceremony also recognised Central Bank of the Philippines governor Eli M Remolona Jr with the AICB Honorary Fellowship — one of the Institute’s highest distinctions.
“This prestigious award acknowledges Governor Remolona’s transformative contributions to ASEAN banking integration, effective policymaking, and talent development in the financial sector,” AICB said.
Fourteen distinguished industry leaders were conferred the Fellow Chartered Banker (FCB) status, including RHB Bank Bhd group managing director and group chief executive officer, AICB council member Datuk Mohd Rashid Mohamad.
AICB said 71 members received the Chartered Banker (CB) designation, while more than 500 attained Associate Chartered Banker status.
The ceremony also celebrated recipients of the Excellence and Corporate Awards.
“Attended by over 480 guests, including members of the AICB Council and C-suite executives, the 8th Chartered Banker Conferment Ceremony reaffirmed AICB’s role in building a resilient, ethical, and future-ready banking workforce for Malaysia and the region,” it said.
AICB added that as banking continues to evolve, it remains committed to professionalising and upskilling the workforce through its education offerings.
“Its flagship Chartered Banker qualification, developed in partnership with the United Kingdom’s Chartered Banker Institute, sets the gold standard in banking professionalism. AICB also offers specialist certifications in areas such as digital transformation, financial crime prevention and sustainable finance,” it added.
-- BERNAMA
