Putrajaya, Malaysia, 31 January 2024 – A delegation from the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB)’s Center of Excellence in Kuala Lumpur (KLCoE), led by the Head of KLCoE, Mr. Samer Elesawi, met with the IsDB Alternate Governor, who is also the Secretary General of the Ministry of Finance, His Excellency Datuk Johan Mahmood Merican.

The purpose of the visit is to gain high-level strategic insights from the Ministry of Finance regarding the strategic realignment exercise for the roles and functions of KLCoE to better serve stakeholders. His Excellency touched on several issues for the parties to explore, including thought leadership in Islamic Finance, Islamic Social Finance linkages with ESG in supporting social development, and Halal vaccines and food security.

Also present in the meeting was Mr. Abu Bakar Jambol, Undersecretary of the International Division of MOF, and PEMANDU Associates, the appointed consultant tasked with undertaking the 'Strategic Direction Realignment Exercise'. The meeting is part of a series of 'Stakeholder Engagement Approaches' scheduled to be conducted over a period of six weeks starting January 15, 2024.

His Excellency has expressed hope for the success of this important exercise, where the expected outcome will further strengthen the relationship between IsDB and the Government of Malaysia.