KUALA LUMPUR (Sept 16): Bank Islam Malaysia Bhd (KL:BIMB) has named former Ryt Bank chief executive officer Melvin Ooi as its new group chief technology and transformation officer, as the lender accelerates plans to modernise its technology infrastructure.

In a statement on Wednesday, Bank Islam said Ooi's appointment reinforces the group's leadership and execution capabilities, supporting its push to become a more agile, data-driven and digitally enabled Islamic financial institution.

Ooi brings over 24 years of leadership experience spanning digital banking, fintech, payments, customer loyalty and financial services across Asia and Australia.

In addition to his tenure at Ryt Bank, he previously held senior positions at Alipay, American Express and Maybank, where he led initiatives in digital transformation, payments innovation, customer growth and strategic partnerships.

"His experience across digital banking, payments and technology-driven businesses complements Bank Islam's institutional strengths as we continue modernising our platforms, enhancing customer experiences and building a future-ready organisation," said Bank Islam group chief executive officer Raja Datin Paduka Teh Maimunah Raja Abdul Aziz.

Raja Teh Maimunah previously helmed Malaysia's first Islamic digital bank, AEON Bank. With Ooi now part of the team, the lender noted that its leadership brings together practical experience from both established and digital banking environments at a critical stage of its transformation journey.

In his new role, Ooi will spearhead Bank Islam's enterprise-wide technology and transformation agenda, including initiatives relating to technology modernisation, digital capability development, data strategy and innovation.

“I am honoured to join Bank Islam at an important stage of its transformation. The group's strong foundations, leadership in Islamic finance and clear strategic direction provide a compelling platform for continued innovation and growth," Ooi said, saying he will focus on working with his new colleagues to modernise technology capabilities, strengthen data use, and improve customer experiences.

"Successful transformation requires disciplined execution, strong collaboration and a relentless focus on creating value," he added.