CIMB Islamic Named World’s Best Islamic Bank 2026

PETALING JAYA: CIMB Islamic Bank Berhad (CIMB Islamic) was named the World’s Best Islamic Bank 2026 at the Euromoney Islamic Finance Awards 2026, making it the first Malaysian bank to receive this prestigious global recognition since the award was introduced.

The recognition reinforces CIMB Islamic’s position as a thought leader in international Islamic finance, while also recognising Malaysia’s role as a global Islamic finance hub.

The award was given following CIMB Islamic’s success in implementing an Islamic-first approach that makes Shariah-compliant banking the core offering across all customer segments within the CIMB Group franchise in Malaysia.

Through the integration of Islamic banking solutions within the digital ecosystem, capital market capabilities and the entire customer journey, CIMB Islamic has succeeded in developing an operating model that offers a more comprehensive, innovative and accessible banking experience.

CIMB Group Chief of Islamic Banking, Ahmad Shahriman Mohamad Shariff, said the recognition is a significant achievement not only for CIMB Islamic, but also for the country’s Islamic finance industry.

“As the first Malaysian bank to receive this award since it was introduced, it proves the success of the Forward30 strategy which places Islamic banking as one of the main drivers of CIMB Group’s aspiration to become the preferred bank by 2030.

“Guided by the Islamic-first approach, we are transforming Islamic banking into a more integrated, inclusive and accessible solution to help individuals, businesses and communities achieve sustainable financial progress,” he said in a statement.

According to him, efforts to integrate Shariah-compliant solutions across every customer segment, supported by digital innovation, capital market expertise and a comprehensive financial ecosystem, have made Islamic finance a natural choice for more customers.

“This recognition comes as CIMB Islamic continues to record strong growth across its consumer banking, wealth management, commercial and wholesale businesses, while also strengthening its digital banking ecosystem and integrated wealth management.

“At the same time, CIMB has maintained its position as the largest global sukuk arranger among ASEAN-based banks for the 16th consecutive year,” he said.

At the regional level, plans to separate Bank CIMB Niaga Syariah in Indonesia as a standalone entity are expected to strengthen the bank’s position in meeting regulatory requirements and expanding operations.

“The move is expected to position the institution as the second-largest Islamic bank in Indonesia, in line with growing demand for Islamic banking in the country,” he said.

In terms of innovation, CIMB Islamic also offers one of the most comprehensive digital Islamic wealth management ecosystems in Malaysia, with over 80 Shariah-compliant unit trust funds and integrated digital investment capabilities through the OCTO platform for retail and corporate customers.

The bank also continues to expand sustainable Islamic finance solutions that create positive impact on the environment and society.

According to Ahmad Shahriman, the prospects for the Islamic finance industry in ASEAN remain bright, with greater potential in supporting sustainable and inclusive economic growth.

“We are committed to continuing to drive innovation, strengthen responsible financial practices and offer solutions that create long-term value for customers, communities and the economy, in line with our purpose of advancing customers and society,” he said.

He said the recognition also reinforces the Moving You Forward brand promise, which reflects CIMB’s commitment to empowering customers and communities through accessible, inclusive and purpose-driven financial solutions.

Utusan Malaysia