1st International Conference on Islamic Finance & Sustainability (ICIFS) 2025

Is the current financial system working for everyone? We’re facing a triple threat: a rapidly changing climate, persistent poverty, and a desperate need for economic growth that includes everyone. We need fresh ideas, and solutions that aren’t just innovative, but also ethical. That’s where Islamic finance comes in. Grounded in principles of shared prosperity, ethical investment, and risk-sharing, it’s gaining recognition as a powerful force for sustainable development. And now, it’s taking center stage at a major event: the 1st International Conference on Islamic Finance and Sustainability (ICIFS) 2025. This isn’t just another conference; it’s a crucial conversation about how finance can truly build a better future.

Hosted by the prestigious Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD) School of Business and Economics (UBDSBE), ICIFS 2025 will bring together leading experts, policymakers, academics, and industry professionals from around the globe. From February 4th to 6th, 2025, at the Balai Khazanah Islam Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah in Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei Darussalam, attendees will explore the crucial role Islamic finance can play in building a more sustainable future. The conference’s timely theme, “The Role of Islamic Finance in Achieving Sustainable Development,” positions ICIFS 2025 as a pivotal event for shaping the future of finance.

Related: Brunei Darussalam Now Among Top 10 Islamic Finance Markets

The Synergies Between Islamic Finance and Sustainability

Islamic finance, with its core tenets of ethical investments, social justice, and shared prosperity, offers a distinct and valuable approach to tackling global challenges. Unlike conventional finance, it prohibits interest (riba), promotes risk-sharing through mechanisms like profit and loss sharing (mudarabah and musharakah), and prioritizes investments that demonstrably benefit society. These principles resonate deeply with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), a universal call to action to eradicate poverty, protect the planet, and ensure peace and prosperity for all by 2030. ICIFS 2025 will delve into the practical applications of Islamic finance in achieving these critical goals.

The conference will provide a platform for in-depth discussions on a range of critical issues, including:

• Poverty Alleviation and Financial Inclusion: Islamic microfinance, with its focus on empowering marginalized communities, will be a key topic. Discussions will explore how these and other Islamic financial tools can promote economic development and break cycles of poverty. The conference will examine successful case studies and explore innovative approaches to scaling up financial inclusion initiatives.
• Environmental Protection and Green Finance: The role of green Sukuk (Islamic bonds) and other sustainable finance instruments in financing renewable energy projects and mitigating the impacts of climate change will be thoroughly explored. Experts will discuss the development of green finance frameworks within Islamic finance and the challenges and opportunities for attracting investment in environmentally friendly projects.
• Sustainable Infrastructure Development: The need for resilient and sustainable infrastructure is paramount. ICIFS 2025 will examine how Islamic finance principles can be applied to develop infrastructure projects that meet the needs of growing populations while minimizing environmental impact. Discussions will cover topics like public-private partnerships, risk mitigation strategies, and the role of Islamic development banks.
• Ethical Investments and Impact Investing: The conference will explore how Islamic investment funds can be directed towards companies that adhere to strict ethical and sustainable practices. The growing field of impact investing, which seeks to generate both financial returns and positive social and environmental impact, will be a key focus. Experts will discuss the development of Shariah-compliant impact investing frameworks and the challenges of measuring and reporting impact.
• Fintech Innovations and the Future of Islamic Finance: Technology is transforming the financial landscape, and Islamic finance is no exception. ICIFS 2025 will examine how fintech innovations can enhance access to Islamic finance, promote financial inclusion, and streamline operations. Discussions will cover topics like blockchain technology, digital currencies, and the development of Islamic fintech ecosystems.

A Rich and Engaging Program

The ICIFS 2025 program is designed to be both informative and engaging, featuring:

• Keynote Presentations: World-renowned experts like Prof. Dr. M. Kabir Hassan will share their insights on the latest trends, challenges, and opportunities in Islamic finance and sustainability. These keynote addresses will provide valuable perspectives and set the stage for deeper discussions.
• Expert Panels: Leading practitioners and academics will participate in dynamic panel discussions, exploring topics ranging from the intricacies of green Sukuk issuance to the role of Islamic finance in building sustainable cities. These panels will offer diverse viewpoints and foster lively debate.
• Academic Paper Presentations: ICIFS 2025 will feature presentations of over 50 cutting-edge research papers, showcasing the latest scholarship on various aspects of Islamic finance and its contribution to sustainable development. This will provide a valuable platform for researchers to share their work and receive feedback from peers.
• Doctoral Workshop: A dedicated workshop will provide doctoral students with invaluable opportunities to refine their research, network with established scholars, and gain insights into career paths in Islamic finance. This focus on nurturing the next generation of researchers underscores the conference’s commitment to long-term impact.
• Journal Editors’ Panel: This session offers a unique opportunity for researchers to interact with leading journal editors, gaining valuable insights into the publication process and enhancing their chances of publishing their work in reputable journals.

Distinguished Speakers and Thought Leaders

ICIFS 2025 has attracted an impressive roster of speakers, including:

• Yang Berhormat Dato Seri Setia Dr. Awang Haji Mohd Amin Liew bin Abdullah, CFA: The presence of this high-ranking government official underscores the importance of ICIFS 2025 at the national level and demonstrates Brunei Darussalam’s commitment to promoting Islamic finance and sustainable development.
• Mr. Arsalaan (Oz) Ahmed: A prominent leader in the Islamic finance industry, Mr. Ahmed brings a wealth of practical experience and a global perspective to the conference.
• Dr. Aida Othman: A respected expert in Shariah advisory, Dr. Othman will provide critical insights into the legal and regulatory framework governing Islamic finance.
• Prof. Dr. Mansor Ibrahim: A distinguished academic from INCEIF University, Prof. Ibrahim will share his expertise on the theoretical and practical aspects of Islamic finance.
• Prof. Dr. Hassan Abu Bakar: A respected scholar from Universiti Utara Malaysia, Prof. Abu Bakar will contribute to the academic discourse on Islamic finance and its relationship with sustainability.
• Prof. Dr. M. Ishaq Bhatti: As a representative of the host institution, Prof. Bhatti will bring local expertise and insights to the conference.

Networking, and Strategic Partnerships

ICIFS 2025 offers more than just informative sessions; it’s a valuable opportunity to connect with a global network of professionals, academics, and policymakers. The conference dinner at the Jade House Fusion, Centerpoint Hotel, will provide a relaxed and informal setting for networking and relationship building.

Participants will also have the opportunity to experience the rich cultural heritage of Brunei Darussalam through the “Kenali Negara Kitani” program, which will include visits to significant cultural and historical sites.

Furthermore, ICIFS 2025 will feature MOU exchanges with key partners, including the Brunei Darussalam Central Bank (BDCB), United Nations Global Compact Malaysia and Brunei (UNGCYMB), and Ozean Holdings. These strategic partnerships will strengthen the impact of the conference and facilitate future collaboration in the field of Islamic finance and sustainability.

How to Register for ICIFS 2025

ICIFS 2025 is an essential event for anyone interested in the future of finance and sustainable development. Whether you are a seasoned professional, an academic researcher, or simply curious about the potential of Islamic finance, this conference offers invaluable insights, networking opportunities, and a chance to be part of a global conversation shaping a more sustainable future.

ICIFS 2025 is a crucial conference exploring the power of Islamic finance for a sustainable future. We’ve discussed its potential to address poverty, protect the environment, and build ethical financial systems. From green Sukuk to innovative fintech solutions, ICIFS 2025 offers valuable insights. Ready to be part of the change? Visit [insert link here] to register and learn more. Join us in Brunei! #ICIFS2025 #IslamicFinance #Sustainability