Malaysia's Bank Islam Lifts Two Global Islamic Finance Awards

JAKARTA, Oct 1 (Bernama) -- Bank Islam Malaysia Bhd has lifted two awards from the Global Islamic Finance Awards (GIFA) 2016, including the prestigious Best Wholesale Banking Award. Its Chief Strategy Officer, Hizamuddin Jamalluddin was awarded the 'Upcoming Personality in Islamic Finance (Leadership) 2016' for his exceptional contributions to the bank. Bank Islam and another three prominent institutions were considered for the category and the decision was based on a number of factors, including in GIFA Methodology. The award also acknowledges the efforts of the bank's Managing Director Zukri Samat, in transforming the bank into one of the major players in the Islamic financial industry. Its Deputy Chief Executive Officer, Khairul Kamarudin said the award was a major milestone for the bank and another step in the right direction for it to become a major regional player in transforming the Islamic financial landscape for the better. "We are honoured to have been recognised for our work. Being the global leader in Islamic banking has been our goal and we have been making remarkable and noticeable progress towards our aspiration. "This award is also a tribute to all Bank Islam staff for the team effort demonstrated and their perpetual commitment, as well as their shared vision to ensure that we are on track to attain our goals," he told Bernama after the awards presentation ceremony here Friday. Despite the challenging market environment, Khairul said Bank Islam continued to grow its financing and deposit, especially in investment account portfolio, which grew to RM3.3 billion as at June 2016. The bank has also manoeuvred its business into the green technology sector, underscoring its support for the government’s initiatives in promoting green technology projects as it vastly contributes to the sustainability of the country economically, socially and environmentally. -- BERNAMA