By Nurdiyanah R. –
BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN, SEPT 26 – Bank Islam Brunei Darussalam (BIBD) confirmed its dedication to sustainable development and regional cooperation at the 14th China-ASEAN Executive Board Meeting Interbank Association (CAIBA) and ASEAN Plus Three Interbank Cooperation Mechanism (APTIBCM).
In the keynote speech delivered in Luang Prabang, Laos, BIBD’s Head of Government Relations and Special Projects, Haji Mohammad Yusri bin Haji Wahsalfelah outlined the bank’s comprehensive approach to address key areas such as human resource development, environmental, social, and governance (ESG) initiatives ), infrastructure connectivity and economic development within the ASEAN framework Plus Three.
Recognizing the important role of human capital, BIBD has implemented initiatives to nurture talent and skills, including continuous learning and development programs. The bank’s flagship corporate social responsibility program, BIBD ALAF, provides supportive education to underprivileged students, in line with Brunei Vision 2035 and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDG).
BIBD launched a comprehensive BIBD Sustainability Framework in 2021 built on three pillars namely environmental protection, responsible entrepreneurship, and inclusive social impact.
In line with this, BIBD is committed to sustainable financing, having pledged $2 billion by 2030. BIBD actively collaborates with Brunei Darussalam’s National Council on Climate Change and supports national strategies to reduce carbon emissions, promote renewable energy, and protect natural resources.
In 2023, BIBD has sponsored Brunei’s first financing with a green deal and launched the Sustainable Environment Project Initiative for environmental restoration. On the social front, BIBD supports marginalized groups through zakat, women’s entrepreneurship, and micro-business empowerment.
BIBD also supports strong governance and is committed to responsible investment. Its subsidiary, BIBD Securities, is the first in Brunei to sign the UN PRI, aligning its investment strategy with ESG factors.
BIBD also supports youth empowerment through initiatives such as BIBD Sustainability Youth Leadership Awards and Eco-Alam Festival.
