Small Medium Enterprise Development Bank Malaysia Berhad (SME Bank) has announced the appointment of Zulkiflee Hashim as its new chairman, effective 6 March 2026. Zulkiflee, who has been an Independent Non-Executive Director at SME Bank since 2019, has played a significant role in enhancing the bank’s governance and strategic oversight.
Zulkiflee’s extensive career in the banking industry spans over 35 years, with leadership positions at Citibank Malaysia, Deutsche Bank Malaysia, and Hong Leong Bank Berhad. He served as Executive Director at Hong Leong Bank from July 1998 to October 2011 and was Chief Operating Officer for Group Strategic Support until his retirement in 2015. Currently, he holds positions as an Independent Non-Executive Director at Hong Leong MSIG Takaful Berhad and Al Rajhi Banking & Investment Corporation (Malaysia) Bhd.
SME Bank, a subsidiary of Bank Pembangunan Malaysia Berhad (BPMB) since May 2025, stated that Zulkiflee’s appointment underscores its commitment to robust leadership and governance. His vast experience is expected to steer the bank’s strategic priorities towards empowering micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and fostering sustainable economic growth.
Founded in 2005, SME Bank focuses on advancing Malaysia’s SME sector through financing and high-impact initiatives aligned with the National Entrepreneurship Policy 2030, including digital transformation and Industrial Revolution 4.0 technology adoption. For further details on SME Bank’s offerings, visit their website.
