APB Convention: Banking is built on trust, the most powerful currency is integrity

In this interview the Association of Professional Bankers (APB) Sri Lanka President Anton  Arumugam speaks about next week’s 2026 Convention and efforts to strengthen regional and global collaboration, elevated professional standards and positions Sri Lankan bankers on the international stage.

Q:  What is the significance of the APB Convention scheduled for 19 and 20 February?

A: The Association of Professional Bankers (APB) incorporated 1988, represents members from public and private banks in Sri Lanka, It is the only platform that brings together professionals, institutions and people across the banking sector. The APB Convention is a landmark gathering that brings together banking professionals, Senior officials from the Central Bank of Sri Lanka, and thought leaders from across the region and beyond. It reflects APB’s commitment to positioning Sri Lankan bankers on a global platform through dialogue, collaboration, and shared learning. This convention is a true flagship event for the profession.

Q:   Why has APB placed strong emphasis on international speakers and panellists this year?

A: Because no institution, profession, or country can thrive in isolation. International speakers bring diverse perspectives, global best practices, and real-world insights that help our members navigate an increasingly interconnected financial landscape. Complementing this, the convention also brings together highly experienced local experts and professionals from multiple industry sectors.

Q:   How does this convention promote regional synergy in banking?

A: This year›s convention theme, “Navigating complexity and accelerating impact through regional synergy” was chosen with purpose. This complexity calls for strategic thinking and stronger global and regional collaboration. The convention serves as a platform for regional dialogue, enabling collaboration among banking associations, institutions, and professionals. By fostering shared understanding and cooperation, These collaborations move beyond symbolism, focusing on knowledge exchange, professional development, and long-term institutional relationships.  APB is helping to build a more resilient and aligned regional financial ecosystem.

Q:   How does APB define its role beyond being a professional network?

A:Our mission is simple but vital, to strengthen the banking profession so that it continues  to serve the economy, businesses and citizens of Sri Lanka with integrity and resilience. APB was not founded merely as a network of members, but as a standard bearer of excellence, ethics, and leadership. Its mission is to elevate the banking profession and shape values that define responsible and forward-looking bankers.

Q:  In what ways has APB helped bridge gaps within the profession?

A: APB has consistently played a unifying role within the banking professions by creating a common, inclusive platform for collaboration and growth. Council members representing multiple banks holding senior positions work collectively toward shared professional objectives reinforcing unity beyond institutional boundaries, importantly mentoring and developing future bankers irrespective of the bank they serve thereby bridging gaps across institutions, generations, and now borders while strengthening the profession as a whole.

Q:   Why is trust a central theme in APB’s philosophy?

A: In an environment of rapid change and increasing complexity , trust remains the anchor that sustains confidence in the banking system and the most powerful currency in our profession is integrity. APB remains fully committed to upholding the highest standards of ethical conduct and professionalism, today and always.

Q:  How does APB define professionalism in the modern banking context?

A: Professionalism is not defined by how much we know, but by how generously we share our knowledge. APB encourages a culture of mentorship, openness, and continuous learning across the profession and defines professionalism as the responsible application of expertise with integrity and clear commitment to uplifting peers, institution and society at large.

Q:  What is APB’s perspective on leadership in banking?

A:APB does not measure leadership solely by personal milestones or titles, but by the ability to uplift others. APB views impactful leadership as the ability to leave the ecosystem stronger, more ethical and more resilient than it was before. Ultimately, APB believes that leadership is validated by the confidence it instils in stakeholders and the positive legacy it leaves for the profession and society at large.

Q:  What lasting impact does APB expect from this convention?

A:The convention is expected to strengthen regional partnerships, deepen professional discourse, and reinforce shared values of integrity and collaboration. Finally, it aims to prepare bankers to lead confidently in a complex, interconnected global environment.