In a strategic collaboration aimed at strengthening the footprint of Islamic finance in Pakistan, BankIslami and ZLK Islamic Financial Services—Pakistan’s first Shariah-compliant brokerage firm—joined forces to promote Riba-free banking and investment. The initiative took shape through a dedicated session titled Leading with Purpose, held at Serena Hotel in Islamabad, bringing together a broad spectrum of stakeholders including business leaders, financial institutions, regulatory representatives, scholars, and civil society.
The event served as a thought leadership platform designed to stimulate meaningful dialogue on Islamic finance and inspire a broader shift toward ethical and faith-aligned financial choices. Attendees included high-level representatives from the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FPCCI), Islamabad Chamber of Commerce & Industry (ICCI), Rawalpindi Chamber of Commerce & Industry (RCCI), as well as officials from the armed forces, government institutions, and religious circles.
Dr. Mufti Irshad Ahmad Aijaz, an esteemed authority in Islamic finance and former Chairman of the Shariah Advisory Committee of the State Bank of Pakistan, delivered the keynote address. Currently serving as Chairman of the Shariah Advisory Committee of SECP and Chairperson of the Shariah Board of BankIslami, Dr. Aijaz underscored the global relevance of Islamic finance and addressed persistent misconceptions surrounding it. He emphasized the ethical foundation of Shariah-compliant finance, positioning it as a socially responsible model aligned with justice and equity.
Rizwan Ata, President and CEO of BankIslami, highlighted the bank’s dedication to advancing the principles of Islamic banking. “As leaders in Islamic finance, we believe it is our responsibility to foster open dialogue and build trust in Riba-free financial systems. This partnership with ZLK is a vital step in our shared mission of promoting ethical finance and enabling a truly Shariah-compliant economic future for Pakistan,” he stated.
Echoing this sentiment, Zahid Latif Khan, Chairman of ZLK Islamic Financial Services, shared that the collaboration reflects a deep, values-driven commitment. “Our alliance with BankIslami is about more than just expanding financial offerings; it’s about reshaping public perception and institutional confidence in Islamic investments. Together, we aim to establish a principled, inclusive, and trust-based financial ecosystem,” he said.
The session represents more than just a symbolic gesture—it reinforces the growing demand and acceptance of Shariah-compliant finance in Pakistan. As the country continues to pursue a transition toward a fully Islamic financial system, initiatives like this play a crucial role in building public awareness, institutional capacity, and investor confidence.
By engaging corporate partners, policymakers, and the general public, BankIslami and ZLK Islamic Financial Services are actively contributing to a values-based transformation in the banking landscape. Their joint efforts not only promote financial inclusion but also reflect a national aspiration to align economic practices with ethical and religious values.
As Islamic finance evolves, collaborations such as this serve as a blueprint for future alliances aimed at creating a sustainable, just, and faith-driven financial system across Pakistan.