Hong Leong Islamic Bank Named Best Islamic Bank for SMEs

Hong Leong Islamic Bank Named Best Islamic Bank for SMEs at the Global Islamic Finance Awards

Dafinah Ahmed Hilmi, CEO of HLISB [1st from right] receiving the award at the Global Islamic Finance Awards 2025 ceremony.

KUALA LUMPUR, 14 OCTOBER 2025 – Hong Leong Islamic Bank (“HLISB” or the “Bank”) was named Best Islamic Bank for SME Banking for a second time at the Global Islamic Finance Awards 2025 (“GIFA”), a testament to the Bank’s commitment to advancing Shariah-compliant SME banking solutions and supporting entrepreneurs on their wealth creation journey.

With HLISB channelling 22% of its total financing amount to SMEs in FY2025, the Bank has distinguished itself as a leader in growing and supporting SMEs in the Islamic banking sector, offering a comprehensive suite of Shariah-compliant solutions that are meticulously designed to support SMEs at every stage of their growth. From foundational financing and trade solutions to Halal advisory and cutting-edge cash management tools that boost daily operational efficiency and facilitate seamless cross-border transactions, the Bank's purpose is clear: to be the catalyst for its customers' success and stimulate the Islamic SME ecosystem.

Dafinah Ahmed Hilmi, CEO of HLISB commented, “The SME sector holds immense growth potential, particularly within the burgeoning Halal market, which is redefining Malaysia's economic future. With the domestic Halal industry projected to contribute a significant 11% of the nation's GDP and Halal exports expected to reach RM75 billion by 2030, we are on the cusp of a new era of opportunity. 

At HLISB, our central mission is to be more than just a financial institution. We aim to be a genuine partner in our customers' wealth creation journey. Our commitment extends far beyond providing financial products. We offer a full suite of services that support every stage of a business's lifecycle, from the initial steps of obtaining Halal certification to providing comprehensive cash management tools, cross-border transaction capabilities, robust investment solutions and facilitating seamless wealth transfer across generations. We are dedicated to being a true value-adding partner to our customers, further stimulating the Islamic SME ecosystem and beyond as we work towards becoming the Best Run Bank in Malaysia.”

At the core of HLISB’s SME proposition is BizHalal, the first integrated Islamic banking solution in Malaysia that combines financing with Halal advisory services. By combining capital support with guidance on readiness assessments, certification and access to a wider Halal ecosystem, BizHalal reduces the friction that often deters smaller businesses from pursuing Halal markets. The innovative all-in-one solution is already making its mark, with early adopters ranging from food manufacturers to health and beauty brands and even logistics providers.

For more information on HLISB’s BizHalal solution, please visit: https://www.hlisb.com.my/en/business-i/hlisb-bizhalal.html