HSBC Malaysia has appointed Christina Cheah the head of its global banking division effective March 1, just a few months after previous global banking head Omar Mahmoud stepped down and she assumed the interim position.

With Cheah's confirmation to the role, women now make up 40 percent of HSBC Malaysia's executive committee. The bank said in a statement that her appointment reflects a “desire to promote local talent as well as the bank's commitment to nurturing and growing more women leaders in Malaysia.”

Cheah has been with HSBC for eight years, and headed its large local corporates business prior to her new appointment. She has also led various diversity, inclusion, and talent development initiatives for the bank. Prior to joining HSBC, she was a Director with Standard Chartered Bank.

HSBC Malaysia chief executive officer Stuart Milne said that Malaysia is a strategically important market for the bank, and Cheah’s extensive experience and deep understanding of the market make her well positioned to lead. He also added that her appointment is line with the bank's commitment to build and develop local talent, and to drive diversity in its leadership.

"We believe that a diverse top leadership team is essential to delivering for our customers. It is also a happy coincidence that Christina's appointment is taking place just before International Women's Day on 8 March 2021," he said.