There was a slightly awkward feeling when Tan Sri Dr Zeti Akhtar Aziz's name was not called out as usual as the Bank Negara Malaysia Governor.
Instead, when the master of ceremonies at the Global Islamic Finance Forum 5.0 event here today announced the arrival of the governor, it was Datuk Muhammad Ibrahim who appeared.
Looking rather calm and composed, Muhammad marched confidently to the stage after being invited to deliver his first ever keynote address as the new central bank leader.
Muhammad, who was appointed early this month, still showed a little anxiety even though it was not his first keynote speech.
"Maybe his new position made him a little nervous," a source close to him told Bernama.
But with his vast experience and familiarity in the industry, the former deputy governor quickly overcame his nerves and finished his speech with style and confidence.
His first official event attracted huge interest from the media seeking his comments on current issues, hoping to find a governor whose views might differ from his predecessor's.
The turnout at the Sasana Kijang hall was exceptional, with almost 30 reporters, including about 10 from television stations, waiting for a door-stop session with Muhammad before he left.
Top on their list of questions was whether 1Malaysia Development Bhd would default on its coupon payment on a US$1.75 billion bond due on Thursday.
Maintaining his smile, Muhammad gave a short and concise answer: the government would honour all its debt obligations.
Before leaving, he reminded the reporters of BNM's upcoming first quarter Gross Domestic Product announcement on Friday, one of the central bank's major annual events.
"See you guys on Friday," said the gentleman in the black suit. The symbolism -- signifying the end of the era of the lady in the blue 'baju kurung' -- could not have gone unnoticed.
Bernama
Wed May 11 2016
Maintaining his smile, Muhammad (middle) gave a short and concise answer: the government would honour all its debt obligations. - File photo
Who is Prabowo Subianto, incoming president of Indonesia?
A wealthy ex-general with ties to Indonesia's popular outgoing president and its dictatorial past, looks set to be its next leader.
Iran's supreme leader says Hamas leader's death will not halt 'Axis of Resistance'
The "Axis of Resistance", built up with years of Iranian support, includes Hamas, the Lebanese Hezbollah group, the Houthi movement in Yemen, and various Shi'ite groups in Iraq and Syria.
Putin says Russia willing to seek compromises between Iran and Israel
Russia is ready to help seek compromises between arch-foes Israel and Iran, President Vladimir Putin said on Friday, saying these would be difficult but possible.
What proposals will Russia push at the BRICS summit?
The proposal is also to establish a BRICS reinsurance company to allow uninterrupted shipment of goods and key commodities between members.
Indonesia's free meals plan in the spotlight as Prabowo readies for office
Prabowo calls the programme one of the main drivers of economic growth, eventually set to add an estimated 2.5 million jobs.
Astro AWANI's revamped English news website, AWANI International, launches on Oct 21
Astro AWANI's revamped English platform delivers in-depth global news and expert analysis to keep you informed on key developments.
Israeli strikes kill 33 people in Jabalia refugee camp in Gaza, medics say
Residents of Jabalia said Israeli tanks had reached the heart of the camp after pushing through suburbs and residential districts.
Liam Payne's ex-partner calls for media restraint after 'painful' death
Cheryl Tweedy used her statement to urge the media to remember they had a seven-year-old son, Bear, who could read the reports.
Analysts: Indonesia's strong MoF leadership team to boost investor confidence
Sri Mulyani Indrawati as head of Indonesia's Ministry of Finance is expected to instil confidence among investors.
Biden offers both a carrot and a stick to Israel as his term nears an end
Israel has frequently resisted US advice and has caused political difficulties for the Biden administration.
Putin says BRICS will generate most of global economic growth
Russian President Vladimir Putin will host a summit of the group in the city of Kazan on Oct. 22-24.
ISIS Malaysia's perspective of Budget 2025
An excellent rakyat-centric budget under the overarching principle of a caring and humane economy.
Budget 2025: Record increase in STR, SARA aid initiatives
The government will provide a significant boost to the Sumbangan Tunai Rahmah (STR) and Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (SARA) initiatives next year.
Budget 2025: EPF contributions to be made mandatory for foreign workers – PM Anwar
The government plans to make it compulsory for all non-citizen workers to contribute to the Employees Provident Fund (EPF).
What policies to expect from Indonesia's new President Prabowo
Prabowo will be open to foreign investment, his aide has said, such as by offering investors management of airports and sea ports.
Budget 2025: Govt allocates RM470 mil to empower women's participation in PMKS
The Women's Leadership Apprenticeship Program will be intensified as an effort to produce more female corporate personalities.
Israel sends more troops into north Gaza, deepens raid
Residents of Jabalia in northern Gaza said Israeli tanks had reached the heart of the camp, using heavy air and ground fire.
Indonesia ramps up security ahead of Prabowo's inauguration
Prabowo Subianto will be sworn in as Indonesia's president on Sunday with Vice President-elect, Gibran Rakabuming Raka, also taking office.
Immediate allocation of RM150 mil for local authorities, DID to tackle flash floods
Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said this allocation is intended to address the recent flash floods that hit the capital and several major towns.
Budget 2025: Sabah, Sarawak to continue receiving among highest allocations - PM
Sabah and Sarawak continues to be prioritised under Budget 2025, with allocations of RM6.7 billion and RM5.9 billion respectively.