Latest news with #AzmanHashim
Malaysian Reserve
16-06-2025
- Business
- Malaysian Reserve
Azman Hashim: Scaling challenges, shaping finance
KUALA LUMPUR — With over 60 years of experience in the banking industry, Tan Sri Azman Hashim (picture) stands not only as an icon of Malaysian finance but also as a remarkable businessman, passionate sportsman, avid singer and dedicated philanthropist. Azman scaled Mount Kinabalu in 2023 at age 84, describing his achievement as both a physical and symbolic journey. 'Life, after all, is a series of mountains – some literal, others metaphorical,' he told Bernama. 'That climb reminded me that with preparation, determination and belief, we can still overcome great challenges regardless of age,' Azman added. That same mindset, he said, drove him to establish his accountancy firm, Azman & Co, later acquire Arab-Malaysian Merchant Bank and build AmBank Bhd. 'Age should never be a barrier to purpose. If you stay curious and committed, there's always another summit to reach,' he said. He emphasised that passion is what brings balance and perspective, which have profoundly shaped his approach to leadership, not merely as a business function, but as a responsibility to serve others. A Legacy of Recognition and Service Recently, Azman, who is chairman of the Asian Institute of Chartered Bankers (AICB), was awarded a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Chartered Banker Institute, UK. He noted the award reflected not only his journey, but the collective progress at AICB in raising the standards of professionalism and integrity in Malaysia's banking industry. 'Banking goes beyond just numbers. It is about trust, responsibility and our duty to serve society with purpose and integrity. 'This recognition is a tribute to the many incredible individuals I have had the privilege of working with over the past six decades, from regulators to industry peers, colleagues and partners,' he said. Azman hopes the recognition inspires others, especially the younger generation, to embrace lifelong learning, lead with strong values and contribute meaningfully to the future of the financial industry. Previously, he also received prestigious honours from Japan and Australia – most notably, the Order of the Rising Sun, Gold Rays with Neck Ribbon, from His Majesty, the Emperor of Japan (1987) and the Order of the Rising Sun, Gold and Silver Star, from the Japanese government (2021), along with the Medal of the Order of Australia from the Governor-General of the Commonwealth of Australia in 2008. Charting the Financial Journey Azman began his career in 1955, studying in Perth, Australia, and qualifying as a chartered accountant and chartered secretary at Messrs O L Haines & Co. before the age of 21. In 1960, he joined Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM), before starting his own company under the name Azman & Co in May 1964. The company later became known as Azman Wong Salleh & Co. He left the company in May 1971 to join Malayan Banking Bhd (Maybank) as executive director and later served at Kwong Yik Bank Bhd from December 1980 to March 1982. In 1982, Azman acquired Arab-Malaysian Merchant Bank and transformed it into the AmBank Group, where he served as chairman until his retirement in 2022. Azman has been a member of the Institute of Bankers Malaysia (IBBM) since 1983 and was elected as chairman in 2009. IBBM was later renamed AICB in 2014. Leadership Through Crisis The 1998 Asian financial crisis was one of Malaysia's most turbulent financial chapters. 'Currency speculation led to a sharp depreciation of the ringgit, the stock market collapsed, interest rates soared and liquidity dried up. Many businesses and individuals suffered, and AmBank was not spared,' he recalled. What carried AmBank through was a firm belief in resilience, composure under pressure and an unwavering commitment to doing what's right, he said. 'I've always believed that in a crisis, you need to lead with clarity, courage, and calm. 'These experiences reminded me that adversity builds character. It taught us to be prepared, prudent and to focus on long-term sustainability over short-term gains,' he said. AICB and the Future of Banking Since joining AICB in 1983 and becoming chairman in 2009, Azman has been instrumental in transforming AICB into a leading professional body with over 37,000 members across more than 20 countries in Asia. Under his leadership, AICB also strengthened its position as a key partner to BNM and financial institutions in driving industry-wide competency standards. 'AICB partnerships with respected global institutions are vital in raising the bar for Malaysian bankers. Aligning ourselves with institutions like the Chartered Banker Institute in the UK allows us to benchmark against the best in the world. 'It ensures our qualifications are internationally recognised and respected. This provides global opportunities for our bankers, enabling them to work, collaborate and compete on a wider stage,' he said. Since 1980, over 39,000 banking professionals have benefited from AICB's qualifications. Today, AICB counts over 800 Chartered Bankers in 13 countries, including Singapore, India, and the Maldives, a testament to the growing importance of ethics and future-readiness in banking. 'The Chartered Banker qualification is about more than acquiring technical expertise. It cultivates judgment, ethics, and a deep understanding of the trust we hold as financial professionals. 'It sets a gold standard – one that helps ensure that the people leading our financial institutions are competent, professional, and committed to reinforcing public trust in the profession. It's a foundation for building a more reputable, responsible and resilient financial future for Malaysia and beyond,' he said. Building the Workforce of Tomorrow Working alongside the Asian Institute of Insurance and the Islamic Banking and Finance Institute Malaysia, AICB spearheaded the Future Skills Framework (FSF) to map out emerging job roles and in-demand skills across the financial sector. The framework identifies 161 relevant job roles and 157 in-demand skills for the next three years, potential career development pathways, and nearly 1,000 capacity-building programmes. 'My advice to young bankers is to stay curious, keep learning and always hold yourself to the highest standards of integrity. The financial world needs not just smart minds but principled professionals. 'The pace of change may be fast, but values remain timeless, which is why initiatives like AICB's Chartered Banker qualification are so vital. It is designed not only to equip professionals with knowledge but also to instil a deep respect for ethical standards,' he concluded. — BERNAMA
The Star
08-06-2025
- The Star
From jail to a PhD
History was made at the Open University Malaysia (OUM) 29th Convocation when a former inmate received his doctorate from the varsity's pro chancellor Tan Sri Azman Hashim. The first graduate to complete his Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) studies behind bars, his journey was nothing short of remarkable. Detained at Kajang Prison in 2001 when he was just 14, M.Y.* walked proudly across the World Trade Centre Kuala Lumpur stage to receive his hard-earned PhD in Business Administration scroll on May 3. The 38-year-old, who was held under Tahanan Limpah Sultan, was illiterate when he first arrived in prison. Undeterred, he taught himself the basics, sat for the Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) and Sijil Tinggi Persekolahan Malaysia (STPM) exams, and began his higher education with OUM in 2009. Over 16 years, he earned a Bachelor of Business Administration, followed by a Masters in Business Administration (MBA), and eventually completed his PhD – all while behind bars. He was granted a royal pardon by the Sultan of Selangor last December. During the convocation, two senior learners were honoured with the Lifelong Learning Award. Yusof Haron, 73, from Perak, earned a Master of Islamic Studies, while Tang Tung Khing, 79, from Sibu, completed a Bachelor of Communication with honours – proving that the pursuit of knowledge knows no age limit. Another standout graduate, Gomathy Sankaran – a Science teacher at SJK(T) Kangkar Pulai in Johor Baru – received her Doctor of Education. With 87 inventions to her name, including herbal hair oil, soap, serum, candles, coffee, as well as organic fertiliser and pesticides, she has won over 220 local and international awards from countries like Canada, Iran, India, South Korea, Sri Lanka and Hong Kong. Held from May 3 to 7, the 29th Convocation of OUM – a university known for its online programmes tailored for working adults – saw a total of 7,915 graduates receive their scrolls across 10 sessions. Among them were three Kajang Prison inmates, who earned a Bachelor of Business Administration (Honours) and Diplomas in Management – a powerful reminder of education's reach beyond bars. *Note: Pseudonym used to protect the privacy of the graduate
The Star
30-05-2025
- Business
- The Star
AICB reaffirms role in shaping future-ready bankers
AICB chairman Tan Sri Azman Hashim. KUALA LUMPUR: 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 financial technology. In a statement, AICB said it had recently held its Eighth Chartered Banker Conferment Ceremony, honouring banking professionals who exemplify the highest standards of professional excellence and lifelong learning in an increasingly complex financial environment. Bank Negara governor Datuk Seri Abdul Rasheed Ghaffour, who delivered the special address at the event, 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. '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 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. 'Attended by over 480 guests, including members of the AICB Council and C-suite executives, the Eighth Chartered Banker Conferment Ceremony reaffirmed AICB's role in building a resilient, ethical, and future-ready banking workforce for Malaysia and the region,' AICB said. AICB added that as banking continues to evolve, it remains committed to professionalising and upskilling the workforce through its education offerings. — Bernama
Barnama
29-05-2025
- Business
- Barnama
AICB Reaffirms Role In Shaping Future-Ready Bankers
BUSINESS AICB Chairman Tan Sri Azman Hashim receiving the Chartered Banker Institute, UK's Lifetime Achievement Award from CBI President Paul Denton at the 8th Chartered Banker Conferment 2025. Credit: AICB 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.
Malaysian Reserve
26-05-2025
- Business
- Malaysian Reserve
Charting the Growth of Finance: Future-Ready Chartered Bankers Lead in an Era of Transformation
KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia, May 26, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The Asian Institute of Chartered Bankers (AICB) recently held its 8th Chartered Banker Conferment ceremony, honouring the commitment of banking professionals who exemplify the highest standards of professional excellence and lifelong learning in an increasingly complex and rapidly changing financial environment. Held under the theme 'Charting the Growth of Finance', the ceremony underscored the growing importance of nurturing future-ready and ethical banking and finance professionals, especially in light of rising challenges in cybersecurity, data privacy, sustainable finance, and the accelerating impact of digital transformation and fintech. Bank Negara Malaysia Governor Dato' Seri Abdul Rasheed Ghaffour, who delivered the special address at the ceremony, said: 'Malaysia has invested significantly in developing talent in our financial sector. Over the years, we have developed a comprehensive ecosystem of talent affiliates providing training, certification, and future-looking guidance on the skills needed by the financial sector. I also wish to highlight the important role played by financial institutions to further complement these efforts through their respective learning and development academies. While the financial services industry benefits from a good talent development ecosystem, more collective actions are needed to future-proof the workforce.' A key highlight of the evening was the presentation of the Lifetime Achievement Award by Chartered Banker Institute (CBI) President Paul Denton to AICB Chairman Tan Sri Azman Hashim. This global recognition — the first awarded by CBI in over a decade — celebrates Tan Sri Azman's decades-long leadership in promoting ethical banking and professional excellence across the region. AICB Chairman Tan Sri Azman Hashim said: 'I am deeply honoured by this recognition. This award is a reflection of 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.' The ceremony also honoured the contributions of Governor Eli M. Remolona, Jr. of Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (Central Bank of the Philippines) with the AICB Honorary Fellowship — one of the Institute's highest distinctions. This prestigious award recognises Governor Remolona's transformative contributions towards fostering greater ASEAN banking integration, effective policymaking, and championing talent development within the financial sector. Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas Governor Eli M. Remolona, Jr. said: 'It is a tremendous honour to receive the prestigious Honorary Fellowship from the Asian Institute of Chartered Bankers (AICB). In today's interconnected world, regional collaboration is essential in elevating banking standards across ASEAN. I look forward to deepening the Malaysia–Philippines cooperation in talent development and knowledge exchange and key areas of mutual interest, ensuring that our financial sectors remain robust, ethical, and future-ready.' As banking continues to evolve rapidly, AICB reaffirmed its commitment to professionalising and upskilling the workforce through its professional education offerings. Its flagship Chartered Banker qualification, developed in collaboration with the UK's Chartered Banker Institute, sets the gold standard for banking professionalism. AICB also provides specialised certifications in areas such as digital transformation, financial crime prevention, sustainable finance and more. AICB Chief Executive Edward Ling said: 'Professionalism and upskilling in banking is no longer optional — it is 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, the Future Skills Framework and thought leadership initiatives in key areas such as digital innovation and sustainable finance, we aim to equip our members with the critical skills and professional foundation needed to navigate and innovate the future of banking and finance.' The ceremony conferred the prestigious Fellow Chartered Banker (FCB) status on 14 distinguished industry leaders, including AICB Council Member Dato' Mohd Rashid Mohamad, Group Managing Director / Group Chief Executive Officer of RHB Bank Berhad. Additionally, 71 AICB members were conferred the Chartered Banker (CB) status, while over 500 members attained the Associate Chartered Banker status. The ceremony also celebrated recipients of the Excellence and Corporate Awards. Attended by over 480 guests comprising 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 professional banking workforce for Malaysia and the region. About Asian Institute of Chartered Bankers AICB is Malaysia's premier professional body for the banking industry, governed by a council comprising representatives from Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM), The Association of Banks in Malaysia (ABM) and the Malaysian Investment Banking Association (MIBA). With over 37,000 members, our mission is to elevate banking standards by developing professionals who exemplify integrity, expertise and competence. As the exclusive institute in Southeast Asia authorised by the UK's Chartered Banker Institute, we confer the prestigious Chartered Banker status. AICB collaborates with industry leaders to ensure our qualifications remain relevant, equipping bankers with the skills needed to thrive in the dynamic banking sector. Our commitment goes beyond education, offering members opportunities for growth through innovative learning, advocacy for professionalism, thought leadership and valuable networking initiatives. For more information on AICB, please visit
