Kuala lumpur: Malaysia's success and resilience in Islamic finance did not emerge by chance but were built on knowledge, integrity, and the expertise of Syariah advisers who anchor the industry's governance. Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Religious Affairs) Datuk Dr Mohd Na'im Mokhtar highlighted the leadership, wisdom, and integrity of these experts, ensuring that every Islamic financial product, instrument, and innovation remains firmly grounded in Syariah principles.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Mohd Na'im emphasized that these advisers are not merely reviewers of legal rulings but serve as moral and strategic guides who preserve authenticity while driving innovation. He made these remarks during the opening of the 18th Muzakarah for Syariah Advisors of Islamic Finance. The conference, organized by the Centre for Research and Training (CERT), gathers senior policymakers, Syariah scholars, and industry leaders to discuss regulatory innovation, digitalization, sustainability, and Syariah compliance in Islamic finance.
Mohd Na'im noted that Malaysia has become a global leader in modern Islamic finance due to visionary leadership, strong governance, and robust institutions. This journey started with the introduction of the Islamic Banking Act 1983 and has led to the rapid growth of industry players and markets. Key achievements include Islamic banking accounting for 46.6 percent of total national financing, an Islamic capital market valued at RM2.63 trillion or 62 percent of the national capital market, and Malaysia's continued dominance of the global sukuk market with nearly 45 percent of worldwide issuances.
He further stated that Malaysia is not merely following global trends but is actively shaping them. Islamic finance in Malaysia has become a symbol of innovation, integrity, and inclusion. These gains are reinforced through strategic measures under Budget MADANI 2026, such as the Sustainable and Responsible Investment (SRI) Sukuk and Bond Grant Scheme, expanded stamp duty incentives for affordable takaful protection, strengthened waqf initiatives, and the development of a Global Sukuk Tokenisation framework.
Mohd Na'im also mentioned that Malaysia is well-positioned to continue leading the industry, especially in green instruments like green sukuk, climate sukuk, and ESG-based financing, aligning with global demand for sustainability and environmental stewardship. He concluded by stating that global shifts are not threats but golden opportunities to renew Islamic finance, making it more dynamic and inclusive. With knowledge, values, and vision, Malaysia will continue to lead the world in Islamic finance.