In Malaysia, our vision of the development of the financial sector over the next ten years is outlined in our Financial Sector Masterplan. The plan includes the strategic direction and strategies for the development of the Islamic financial sector. Finally, greater cooperation among the regulators is necessary in order to ensure that the Islamic financial system is not subject to vulnerabilities and abuses. In this respect, sharing of information among the regulators including across borders is important especially in a more globalised and liberalised environment where financial transactions and activities have become more complex and globalised. In this regard, there is a greater need for regulators to continuously exchange views and share information on key issues and developments faced in their own financial jurisdictions. Another important aspect is in regard to the development of the international Islamic financial market. Although this market is to be driven by the market players, a greater role is expected from the  6  BIS Review 3/2004  regulators and central banks to support its expansion. In this respect, the encouraging support shown by various regulators and central banks in making the launching and issuance of the sovereign sukuk papers a success represents an important progress that has been achieved. These initiatives will bring about a more coordinated effort in achieving market development and stability. VI. Conclusion  Our quest to develop a dynamic Islamic financial system is to achieve the ultimate objective for Islamic finance that contributes significantly toward the overall development of our economies.

This is even more relevant in the multi-facet role played by the Islamic financial institutions in dealing with Islamic banking customers as the Islamic financial transaction is not merely based on the lender and borrower relationship as is the case in conventional banking. The move towards the adoption of the supervised market approach requires continuous efforts to enhance product disclosures and to elevate the level of financial literacy of consumers. BIS Review 3/2004  3  To further enhance transparency in the conduct of banking institutions, proper accounting standards need to be in place to reflect the true and fair value of banking operations that would lead to greater accountability and responsibility on the part of the banking institution. Accurate financial reporting requires a body of financial accountants that are well-versed in Shariah principles to ensure that the accounts are not only drawn in accordance with the international accounting standards but are also in line with Islamic principles. This is to enable the investors and supervisors to obtain the true and fair assessment of the Islamic institution’s financial condition and the profitability of the business. Transparency and disclosure is even more crucial in Islamic banking where the concept of mudharabah (profit-sharing) entails an investor-entrepreneur relationship and is a significant element in sourcing of funds. The establishment of the Accounting and Auditing Organisation for Islamic Financial Institutions (AAOIFI) has made a significant contribution in formulating and issuing accounting and auditing standards for Islamic financial institutions.