“Bank Rakyat Urged to Explore New Opportunities to Strengthen Islamic Finance Role : PM Anwar”

KUALA LUMPUR: Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has called on Bank Rakyat Malaysia to explore new business opportunities and strengthen its role in delivering a more competitive and sustainable financial model for the benefit of the public.

In a post on social media platform X, the prime minister said the cooperative bank must carry out its founding mandate with greater courage and vision while adapting to changing economic conditions.

He also noted that senior executives, including Ahmad Shahril Mohd Shariff, are reviewing the institution’s 2025 financial performance and its strategic direction for the coming years.

Anwar expressed appreciation for Bank Rakyat’s strong governance and financial position, saying its continued stability reflects discipline and commitment in managing public trust and resources.

He added that discussions also focused on strengthening the Islamic banking and finance system, which remains a key pillar of Malaysia’s financial ecosystem.

“The principles of justice, compassion, and inclusiveness must continue to be the core in expanding the role of Islamic finance, in line with the MADANI aspiration,” he said.

The prime minister emphasized that Malaysia’s Islamic finance sector should continue evolving to remain relevant and competitive while staying true to its ethical foundations and social responsibility goals.