Bank of Maldives (BML) Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director Mohamed Shareef has been appointed Chairman of the Asian Bankers Association (ABA), becoming the first Maldivian to hold the organization's top leadership position.

Shareef formally assumed the chairmanship on July 31, 2026, following a decision by the ABA Board. His appointment marks a significant milestone for Maldivian representation in regional banking leadership.

The BML chief has previously held a senior position within the association, serving as Vice Chairman from 2018 to 2020.

During that period, he was involved in efforts to advance the ABA's strategic priorities and strengthen cooperation among banks across Asia.

He returned to the association's leadership team in 2025.

Following his appointment, Shareef said he looked forward to working with the ABA Board, Secretariat and member institutions to deepen cooperation and contribute to the continued development of Asia's banking sector.

ABA Secretary-Treasurer Dr. Darsan Chiu welcomed Shareef's appointment and highlighted his contribution to the association's work, while expressing the Secretariat's support for his tenure.

Founded in 1981, the Asian Bankers Association brings together banks and banking organizations from across Asia.

The regional body promotes dialogue between financial institutions, policymakers and regulators, while supporting capacity building and the exchange of industry practices.

Shareef's appointment is expected to increase the Maldives' visibility within the region's banking sector and strengthen its participation in discussions on the future of Asian finance.

The appointment comes ahead of the 2026 ABA Conference, which will be hosted by BML in the Maldives from September 1 to 3, bringing regional banking representatives to the country.