ISRA Consulting, the advisory arm of INCEIF University, participated in a successful Reverse Linkage Diagnostic Mission organised by the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) in Brunei Darussalam recently.
The mission represented a significant step in enhancing collaboration between Brunei and Malaysia, particularly in strengthening the Islamic finance ecosystem through the Ar Rahnu model.
As a key knowledge partner from Malaysia, ISRA Consulting contributed its expertise in Shariah-compliant microfinance to support the development of the Reverse Linkage project for Brunei. The project aims to benefit Bruneian micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) through the application of Malaysia’s experience in Ar Rahnu operations.
Representing ISRA Consulting were Acting CEO Mr Wan Rizaidy Wan Saufi and Principal Shariah Officer Ustaz Bahroddin Badri.
Led by IsDB’s Lead Technical Cooperation Specialist (Reverse Linkage), Mr Aminuddin Mat Ariff, the mission brought together experts from Malaysia, including representatives from Bank Kerjasama Rakyat Malaysia (Bank Rakyat), and Rakyat Management Services (RMS), a subsidiary of Bank Rakyat. The delegation engaged extensively with Brunei stakeholders, particularly Bank Usahawan Brunei (BUB), to define the scope and strategic direction of the proposed project.
To ensure a holistic and inclusive approach, the mission team also met with Bank Islam Brunei Darussalam (BIBD) and the Brunei Darussalam Central Bank (BDCB), further deepening institutional collaboration between the two nations.
Throughout the three-day engagement, discussions centred on identifying key institutional needs and leveraging Malaysia’s robust experience in Islamic microfinance to tailor practical solutions for Brunei’s context. The exchange capitalised on the strong bilateral ties between the two countries and their shared commitment to advancing Islamic finance.
ISRA Consulting remains committed to supporting impactful development interventions in collaboration with international and multilateral organisations like the IsDB. Through such partnerships, it continues to champion the growth of Islamic finance globally, grounded in Shariah principles and geared towards real socio-economic benefit.
THE BRUNEIAN | BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN
