27th November 2025, Siem Reap, Cambodia — Brunei Darussalam proudly celebrates a historic achievement as Arif Asnawi Leong, FIA, Head of the Actuarial Division at Takaful Brunei, was awarded the Young ASEAN Insurance Manager Award (YAMA) 2025 during the 51st ASEAN Insurance Council Meeting.
Arif Asnawi Leong is the first locally trained Fellow of the Institute and Faculty of Actuaries (IFoA) in Brunei Darussalam, with over ten years of experience in Family and General Takaful. At Takaful Brunei, he oversees pricing, reserving, product development, data analytics and financial reporting. Serving as President of the Brunei Actuarial Society, and his involvement in the ASEAN Actuarial Talent Development Working Committee, Arif Leong contributes to regional talent development initiatives. Beyond his professional expertise, Arif actively mentors youth, entrepreneurs, and aspiring actuaries as part of his commitment to developing future leaders for Brunei Darussalam.
Organised by the ASEAN Insurance Training & Research Institute (AITRI) in collaboration with the ASEAN Insurance Council (AIC), the YAMA Award recognises exceptional young professionals who demonstrate strong leadership, innovation, and meaningful contributions to the ASEAN takaful and insurance sector. The final interview and award ceremony were conducted in conjunction with the regional meetings attended by regulators, industry leaders, and emerging talents across ASEAN.
The YAMA Award aims to highlight young Takaful/Insurance leaders who drive strategic impact, promote industry development and contribute to strengthening crossborder collaboration. AITRI and AIC continue to champion the development of a resilient future-ready workforce by honouring individuals who demonstrate excellence and commitment to advancing the region’s takaful and insurance landscape.
Upon receiving the award, Arif expressed: “I am truly honoured to receive the YAMA Award, and I would like to express my sincere appreciation to the judges and the organisers for this recognition. As the first qualified Actuary in Brunei Darussalam, this award strengthens my commitment to developing young talents and contributing to the growth of the takaful and insurance industry. I am proud to bring this recognition back to Brunei, the first time our country has received this honour.”
This regional recognition underscores Brunei’s growing presence in the ASEAN takaful/insurance sector and highlights the nation’s commitment to nurturing homegrown talent capable of contributing to industry excellence across the region.
