Md. Abedur Rahman Sikder, Managing Director (MD) of the recently merged Combined Islami Bank, has assured customers that no customer will return empty-handed after coming to withdraw money from their bank. While there might be a temporary delay in supplying cash according to customer demand, the bank is fully prepared to disburse funds. He expressed this firm conviction on Monday (September 7, 2026) during a visit to various branches of the bank.
During the inspection, Md. Abedur Rahman Sikder instructed the staff of each branch to be ready to serve customers with a smile. He noted that cash is being supplied according to customer demand and this process will continue uninterrupted. In his opinion, the opening of new bank accounts and the commencement of deposit collection are significant signs of returning customer confidence. He also stated that the bank is providing services with utmost priority to maintain this customer trust.
It is noteworthy that Combined Islami Bank has been formed by merging five banks: EXIM Bank, Social Islami Bank, First Security Islami Bank, Global Islami Bank, and Union Bank. Following this merger, the process of refunding depositors' money began today. Those who applied for a refund on September 1 are receiving their funds starting today.
On Monday morning, a visit to several branches of Combined Islami Bank in the capital revealed that adequate funds have been supplied to the branches according to customer demand. Concerned officials stated that, in addition to general customers, arrangements are being made to disburse money to some customers even before the scheduled time, considering urgent needs, which reflects the bank's commitment to customer service.
Bangladesh Bank has released BDT 5,000 crore for the refund of depositors' money at Combined Islami Bank. Since applications for refunds began on September 1, a total of 75,000 customers have applied in just six days. Against these applications, the total customer demand stands at BDT 3,925 crore, which is a significant challenge for both the bank authorities and Bangladesh Bank.
Meanwhile, the MD stated that special initiatives have been taken to recover the bank's defaulted loans, saying, 'A 'war room' concept has been developed, and a special campaign is being conducted to recover defaulted loans.' Approximately 16,000 bank employees are involved in this activity. Already, more than 10,000 lawsuits have been filed for defaulted loan recovery, as a result of which many borrowers are coming under rescheduling arrangements and are stepping forward to repay their loans, which is helping in the recovery of the bank's financial health.
Regarding the bank's future plans, Md. Abedur Rahman Sikder said that work is underway to bring Combined Islami Bank back to a stronger position than before by maintaining customer confidence and spreading positive messages about the bank. The bank authorities under his leadership are committed to contributing to the country's economic stability and establishing themselves as a reliable financial institution for customers.
