BIBF and CIBAFI Strengthen Resilience in Islamic Banking Amid Global Challenges
The General Council for Islamic Banks and Financial Institutions (CIBAFI), in partnership with the Bahrain Institute of Banking and Finance (BIBF), recently hosted a webinar titled “Enhancing the Resilience of Islamic Banks in the Face of Global Exogenous Events.” This event was part of an ongoing collaboration aimed at fostering knowledge sharing and capacity building within the Islamic financial services sector.
Strategic Dialogue on Institutional Resilience
The webinar served as a platform for strategic discussions focused on enhancing institutional resilience among Islamic banks in light of increasing global uncertainties. Key topics included the evolving nature of exogenous shocks, such as climate-related risks, geopolitical developments, financial disruptions, and cyber threats. The discussions emphasized essential aspects of governance, risk appetite frameworks, operational resilience, supervisory expectations, and crisis preparedness mechanisms.
Additionally, the session explored how Islamic finance principles—rooted in ethical values and social responsibility—can contribute to the development of more resilient and sustainable financial systems.
Insights from Industry Leaders
During the opening remarks, Ms. Zainab Al Owainaty, Director of Administration and Finance at CIBAFI, highlighted the strategic importance of resilience in Islamic banking. She noted that the increasing frequency and complexity of global shocks necessitate a robust approach to risk management and governance. Al Owainaty reaffirmed CIBAFI’s commitment to advancing the industry through impactful thought leadership and dynamic knowledge exchange, emphasizing the need for industry professionals to be equipped with the tools to navigate evolving risks.
Dr. Rizwan Malik, Head of the Islamic Finance Centre at BIBF, echoed these sentiments, stating that the institute is dedicated to fostering professional excellence and meaningful dialogue on pressing industry challenges. He described the webinar as a dynamic platform for practitioners and experts to exchange insights on resilience and crisis preparedness in Islamic banking, reflecting a shared ambition to enhance the sector’s capabilities.
Launch of CIBAFI’s Report
The webinar also featured the soft launch of CIBAFI’s report titled “Responding to Severe Exogenous Events: A Guide for Islamic Banks.” Mr. Rachid Ettaai, Assistant Director of Strategic Planning and Operations at CIBAFI, presented key findings and practical approaches aimed at bolstering resilience within Islamic banks.
The event attracted a distinguished group of industry experts, including Mr. Lilian Le Falher, Managing Director at ISTRAT Advisory in Bahrain; Dr. Jarmo Kotilaine, Economic Advisor at Tamkeen, Bahrain; and Dr. Sutan Emir Hidayat, Director at the National Committee for Islamic Economy and Finance (KNEKS) and Associate Professor at Gunadarma University, Indonesia. The session was moderated by Mr. Rachid Ettaai and attended by representatives from various Islamic banks, regulatory authorities, and academic institutions.
Continued Collaboration for Industry Development
CIBAFI and BIBF plan to maintain their collaborative efforts to support the development of the Islamic financial services industry and enhance its resilience amid an increasingly complex global landscape.
About CIBAFI
CIBAFI is an international non-profit organization established in 2001 by the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) and several leading Islamic financial institutions. It is affiliated with the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) and comprises over 140 members from more than 30 jurisdictions worldwide. CIBAFI plays a crucial role in the international framework of Islamic finance, focusing on supporting industry growth through various initiatives.
CIBAFI’s strategic objectives include advocating for the industry, promoting sustainable growth and innovation, enhancing knowledge and research in Islamic finance, and facilitating professional development and capacity building.
CIBAFI is headquartered at Deema Tower, 7th Floor, Office 71, Building 657, Road 2811, Block 428, Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain. For further information, contact the CIBAFI Secretariat at +973 17357300 or via email at media@cibafi.org.
About the Bahrain Institute of Banking and Finance (BIBF)
Established in 1981, the Bahrain Institute of Banking and Finance (BIBF) is a leading provider of professional education and training in Bahrain. BIBF offers high-quality programs across various business disciplines, including banking, Islamic finance, accounting, leadership, insurance, and information technology. With over 400 courses and internationally recognized qualifications in collaboration with global institutions, BIBF serves more than 16,000 participants annually. The institute plays a pivotal role in developing human capital both regionally and globally.
Source: www.zawya.com
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Published on 2026-04-28 18:33:00 • By the Editorial Desk
