Governor Md. Mostakur Rahman has emphasized the critical need to empower and autonomize Shariah boards to restore transparency and discipline within Bangladesh's Islamic banking sector.

Speaking at a high-level meeting with Shariah experts and scholars, the Governor asserted that protecting these boards from the influence of boards of directors and ensuring legal safeguards for their independence is vital to preventing money laundering and curbing financial irregularities.

In response to the sector's challenges, experts proposed a 20-point reform plan, including the enactment of a dedicated "Islamic Banking Act," the appointment of a separate Deputy Governor for Islamic finance, and the introduction of mandatory external Shariah audits.

By strictly adhering to asset-based financing and robust governance, the central bank aims to rebuild public trust and transform Bangladesh into a prominent regional hub for Islamic banking.