BNM governor Muhammad Ibrahim said this is a tradition that BNM is proud of and holds in high esteem in line with its recognition of merit and the encouragement of diversity in its work culture.
“Let us welcome and give our full support to Jessica as the new deputy governor, as we had previously given to others, and wish her all the best in her new role,” Muhammad said in an internal email to BNM employees yesterday.
Chew will assume the position of deputy governor of BNM effective Jan 1, 2018 following the retirement of Sukhdave Singh, which is effective from Dec 31, 2017.
Muhammad said as an institution which holds the public trust, it is imperative that BNM continues to move with the times so that it could serve the nation with the utmost integrity, professionalism and put the interests of the nation first.
“I emphasise that the interests of the nation and the organisation are paramount. It must take priority over all other considerations. The burden of leadership cannot be taken lightly,” he said.
Muhammad said the responsibility of BNM’s leadership is to carry out the central bank’s mandate to ensure the economic and financial stability of the country.
“We must be strong as one team, cohesive, focused and be respectful of others. We should continue to have exceedingly high professional expectations of the management team to maintain a high standard of integrity, be able to drive teamwork, collaboration, be consultative and collaborative in our advocacies, both public and private,” he said.
Muhammad expressed confidence that BNM’s talent, dedication and sense of purpose would take the institution to greater heights, and contribute immensely to the well-being of the country, society, and future generations of Malaysians.
“A good leader needs to also focus on nurturing talent development, to the extent of making him or herself redundant. The burden of leadership, to those who have known and experienced it, is a heavy one. I thank those who have been willing and able to meet that challenge with a true sense of duty and purpose.
“As we enter into an exciting era of development for our country, let us continue to work as a unified team, confident and determined, and focus all that we have for the betterment of our society,” Muhammad told BNM staff.
Muhammad also bid farewell to his long-time colleague, Sukhdave Singh and wished him all the very best in his future undertakings.
“Sukhdave has contributed, like many others, towards the bank’s mandate. As a retiree, Sukhdave will enjoy all the benefits accorded under the terms and conditions of the bank,” he said.