Cambodia Explores Islamic Finance with Malaysian Bank

On September 24, 2026, H.E. Dr. Othsman Hassan, Minister of State for Special Missions, held a working meeting with Mr. Mohd Syahrul Ishak, CEO of Al-Rajhi Bank Malaysia, in Kuala Lumpur. The meeting took place during the Minister's attendance at the Global Halal Summit 2026, scheduled from September 23 to 27, 2026. The discussion primarily focused on studying the feasibility and exploring cooperation for the establishment of the first Islamic Financial Services in Cambodia. This initiative aims to support the business activities of the Islamic community and promote the development of the halal industry in the country. During the meeting, Minister Hassan informed the CEO of Al-Rajhi Bank Malaysia that the Muslim population in Cambodia constitutes approximately 5% of the total population, with most engaged in agriculture and other businesses. He highlighted their challenges in accessing capital sources compliant with religious principles (Shariah Compliant). In this regard, Minister Othsman Hassan proposed that Al-Rajhi Bank Malaysia consider investment opportunities in Cambodia, potentially starting with opening an Islamic finance window in collaboration with local commercial banks, or by applying for an operational license directly. He also affirmed the government's readiness to facilitate the process in coordination with the Royal Government and the National Bank of Cambodia to support the Islamic financial system. The Minister also invited a technical team from Al-Rajhi Bank Malaysia to visit and study the banking system in Cambodia firsthand. In response, the Al-Rajhi Bank delegation welcomed the invitation and expressed their intention to send a technical team for an on-site study visit to Cambodia in the near future. This visit will aim to gather practical information and hold further detailed discussions with relevant parties, with the goal of establishing Islamic financial services in Cambodia. Al-Rajhi Bank Malaysia was officially launched in 2006 and is a leading Islamic financial institution in Malaysia. It is an affiliate of Al-Rajhi Bank of Saudi Arabia, one of the world's largest Islamic banks, and was the first Arab-based Islamic bank in Southeast Asia. The bank operates in personal, corporate, and digital banking services, adhering 100% to Islamic principles (zero interest/Riba). Source: CPP Cambodia