MARC Ratings Berhad, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Malaysian Rating Corporation Berhad (MARC), has been named Best Islamic Rating Agency 2025 at the 15th Global Islamic Finance Awards (GIFA), held in Kuala Lumpur. The prestigious ceremony was attended by over 400 guests, including Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, and celebrated more than 60 winners from around the world.
This recognition marks the 11th time MARC Ratings has received the award, signifying the rating agency’s consistent performance and commitment to providing high-quality ratings that support transparency, confidence, and growth in the Islamic finance sector.
Arshad Mohamed Ismail, Group Chief Executive Officer of MARC and Chief Executive Officer of MARC Ratings Berhad, said that the win is an affirmation of MARC Ratings’ unwavering commitment to excellence and its role in advancing the Islamic finance industry, reflecting the dedication of its team, whose professionalism and expertise continue to set it apart, as well as the trust that clients and partners place in the company year after year. “The team is honoured by this recognition and grateful to the GIFA Awards Committee for acknowledging its work. As the industry continues to evolve in scope and complexity, MARC Ratings remains steadfast in its mission to deliver accurate, insightful, and timely ratings that support the growth, resilience, and global relevance of Islamic finance,” he added.
The GIFA 2025 award highlights MARC Ratings' significant contribution to the Islamic finance ecosystem, both in Malaysia and across the region. As the industry expands into new markets and adopts increasingly sophisticated structures, reliable credit ratings play a vital role in promoting transparency, facilitating investment, and bolstering market confidence.
Through its focus on analytical excellence, innovation, and thought leadership, MARC Ratings continues to support issuers, investors, and regulators in enhancing the quality and reach of the Islamic finance market, while helping to maintain Malaysia’s position as a global centre for Islamic finance.
