Labuan, 29 September 2025 – The Labuan International Business and Financial Centre (Labuan IBFC) celebrated its 35th anniversary commemorating over three decades of dynamic growth, strategic innovation, and enduring contribution to Malaysia’s economic landscape. Established as Malaysia’s gateway for international business, Labuan IBFC has evolved into a prominent regional hub reinforcing its position within Asia. The milestone was honoured in a special ceremony officiated by Yang Berhormat Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan, Minister of Finance II.

Since its inception in 1990, Labuan IBFC has charted a remarkable journey of resilience and reinvention - navigating 35 years of transformation through strategic expansion, legal modernisation, and regulatory enhancement. From aligning with international standards to embracing digital innovation. Today, it hosts nearly 5,000 companies comprising over 800 licensed financial institutions hailing from more than 120 countries, underscoring its strong market footprint within Asia’s business landscape.

Among its standout achievements, Labuan IBFC has made a unique legacy momentum in international Islamic finance - pioneering sukuk issuances and championing financial innovation. A landmark milestone is the launch of the Islamic Digital Asset Centre (IDAC), positioning Labuan IBFC as a e-gateway for ESG-aligned and Shariah-compliant digital fundraising. IDAC has catalysed breakthroughs in asset tokenisation, including RAMZ, a suite of Shariah-compliant securities tokens which cumulatively grown to reach USD1.5 billion worth. IDAC had set the global first with the launch of Labuan IBFC’s Shariah-compliant blockchain hub masterplan and Climate Sukuk. This is one of Labuan IBFC’s many alignments with the 13th Malaysia Plan and the National Blockchain Roadmap 2021–2025 that reaffirms its leadership in Islamic finance innovation in the international space.

Regionally, Labuan IBFC has evolved into a well-recognised centre within ASEAN with its strategic relevance affirmed by its selection as the domicile of the ASEAN Infrastructure Fund (AIF) in 2012. This is a milestone that underscores the Centre’s growing role in facilitating the region’s development agenda whilst strengthening Malaysia’s economic ties across ASEAN. The Centre’s 35th anniversary carries added significance this year, coinciding with Malaysia’s ASEAN chairmanship. This is considered timely with Labuan IBFC’s expanding role as conduit for intra-ASEAN’s cross-border business and investment flows.

Beyond enhancing Labuan’s global standing, Labuan IBFC has played a vital role in the Island’s social-economic development. By attracting international business establishments, it has generated local employment, spurt the growth of professional services and retail sectors that will continue to boost economic spillovers to the island.

“To remain competitive globally, Labuan IBFC must continue to innovate and sharpen its specialisation,” said Affendi Rashdi, Director General of Labuan FSA. “By deepening its presence in emerging niches and advancing new solutions, the Centre is well positioned to seize future opportunities”, he added.
As the Labuan IBFC Strategic Roadmap 2022–2026 nears completion, Labuan FSA is shaping the next five-year blueprint. This will be focused on deepening niche sectors, enhancing intra-ASEAN linkages and developing a vibrant capital market to drive innovations and facilitate cross-border financial flows.

Beyond the said strategic milestones, the 35th anniversary also highlights Labuan IBFC’s commitment to sustainability and responsible growth. This was symbolised by the Minister of Finance II’s tree planting at the Labuan International School. A meaningful gesture it reflected well the Centre’s dedication to environmental stewardship and long-term, sustainable development.

In his closing remarks, the Director General of Labuan FSA, urged the industry and stakeholders to unite in shaping the Centre’s next chapter - one defined by Sustainability, Inclusivity, and Future-readiness.


Labuan Financial Services Authority
29 September 2025