Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, 22^nd September 2023 – Islamic Development Bank (IsDB)’s Center of Excellence (KLCoE) in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, led by the Head of KLCoE, Mr. Samer Elesawi, visited the Ministry of Finance (MOF) and other major stakeholders and partners namely the Central Bank of Malaysia (BNM), International Centre for Education in Islamic Finance (INCEIF),  Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) and EXIM Bank during the period 7^th -22^nd September 2023, in his capacity as the new Head of the Center after assuming the role on 1^st September 2023.

During the courtesy visit to the Ministry of Finance, Mr. Abu Bakar Jambol, the Undersecretary of the International Division, received the KLCoE delegation. Discussions centered around the strategic direction of KLCoE for the remainder of 2023 and the plans for 2024, with a strong emphasis on enhancing bilateral interactions. Both parties acknowledged the importance of frequent sessions, ensuring continued progress in their mutual endeavours."

In the visit to the Central Bank of Malaysia (BNM) which was received by Mdm. Nurul Izza, Director of Islamic Finance Department, both parties discussed the strategic collaboration in Islamic Finance's capacity development, Malaysia's blended finance initiatives, and the prospect of BNM’s active participation in the IsDB Annual Meeting 2024.

The courtesy visit to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) was received by Datuk Mohd Aini, Chief of Protocol, Mr. Ahmad Kamrizamil, Undersecretary of OIC, Regional Cooperation and D-8 Division, and Mr. Devrin Jeck, Undersecretary of International Cooperation and Development Division. Potential opportunities under the Malaysian Technical Cooperation Program (MTCP) and joint scholarships program for 2024 were explored.

In a separate session with Prof Dato’ Dr Azmi Omar, President & CEO of the International Centre for Education in Islamic Finance (INCEIF), Among other issues discussed was the importance of exploring initiatives on the Islamic Social Finance.

At the invitation of the Malaysian External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE), KLCoE marked its presence at the Global Halal Summit (GHaS 2023) on 12^th September, witnessing Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim delivering the keynote address underscoring the significance of unified efforts in elevating Malaysia’s Halal industry.

On 20^th September, a promising discussion took place with Tazkia Institute of Indonesia, aiming to explore ties in Islamic Finance and potential cooperation on scholarship opportunities for IsDB MCs.

On 20^th -21^st  September KLCoE participated in a workshop “Promoting Islamic Social Finance and Accelerating the Growth of Halal Value Chain Ecosystem”  organized by Statistical, Economic and Social Research and Training Centre for Islamic Countries (SESRIC) in collaboration with Central Bank of Malaysia (BNM), Central Bank of Indonesia (BI), Saudi Central Bank (SAMA) and Central Bank of the Republic of Turkiye (TCMB). The workshop aimed to highlight best practices and innovative/ sustainable solutions in support of the recovery efforts of MSMEs in the post-pandemic era.

The meeting with EXIM Bank Malaysia, the President/CEO, Mr. Arshad Mohamed Ismail, brought to the fore key areas of mutual interest, including trade facilitation and exploring working on a pilot project on waqf and sustainability initiative  planned jointly with the Ministry of Natural Resources, Energy, and Climate Change.