Dr. Shamsiah Abdul Karim is a distinguished figure in the field of Islamic finance, with a career spanning nearly three decades. She currently serves as the Chief Executive Officer and Director of Pergas Investment Holdings (PIH), a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Singapore Islamic Scholars and Religious Teachers Association (Pergas). In her role at PIH, Dr. Shamsiah oversees investment strategies and financial initiatives that align with Shariah principles, contributing significantly to the growth and development of Islamic finance in Singapore. ​

Prior to her tenure at PIH, Dr. Shamsiah held several key positions that underscore her expertise and leadership in the sector. She was the Senior Vice-President at Bank Muamalat Malaysia Berhad, where she oversaw the Shariah and Product Development Division, ensuring that the bank’s products and services complied with Islamic law. Additionally, she served as the Chief Executive Officer of the Albukhary Foundation, a role in which she advanced philanthropic efforts within the framework of Islamic values. Her extensive experience also includes her tenure as Deputy Director of Asset Development at the Islamic Religious Council of Singapore (Muis), where she played a pivotal role in asset management and development projects. ​

Dr. Shamsiah’s contributions to Islamic finance have been internationally recognized. She was listed among the top 20 most influential women in Islamic finance by Cambridge IFA, reflecting her impact and leadership in the industry. Her academic credentials are equally impressive; she holds a Bachelor of Business Administration from the International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM) and a Ph.D. from Durham University, where she specialized in waqf (Islamic endowment) and Islamic finance. This blend of practical experience and academic excellence positions Dr. Shamsiah as a leading authority in her field, dedicated to advancing Islamic financial practices both in Singapore and globally.