KUALA LUMPUR, 29 July 2025 — In a milestone for Malaysia’s financial sector, the Digital Asset Rating Agency (DARA) was officially launched today, marking the country’s first institution dedicated to rating the sustainability, ethics, and regulatory integrity of digital assets.

The launch ceremony, held at M Resort & Hotel Kuala Lumpur, was officiated by Yang Berhormat Dato Hajjah Hanifah Hajar Taib, Deputy Minister of Economy. The event drew participation from regulators, institutional investors, fintech leaders, and key stakeholders in the blockchain ecosystem.

“The launch of DARA marks a significant step forward for Malaysia’s digital finance ecosystem. As we continue to strengthen our role in sustainable and Islamic finance, platforms like DARA help position Malaysia as a leader in the digital economy,” said YB Dato Hajjah Hanifah Hajar Taib, Deputy Minister of Economy

Redefining Trust in Digital Assets

DARA introduces institutional-grade certification, analytics, and ESG assurance to support regulatory-compliant and investable digital tokens. Its proprietary Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) framework enables sovereign wealth funds, asset managers, and policymakers to evaluate digital assets with transparency and confidence.

“Digital assets are redefining global finance but without trust, adoption stalls. DARA was built to close that trust gap,” said Wallace Yu, President of DARA

Introducing iDARA: A Shariah-Compliant Digital Asset Framework

As a key component of the launch, DARA also introduced iDARA, a dedicated division to embed Islamic finance principles directly into the digital asset ecosystem. iDARA ensures Shariah governance in blockchain infrastructure and provides certification for assets including stablecoins, sukuk, and tokenized instruments.

Supported by a Shariah Council, iDARA is aligned with global ESG standards while extending assurance to faith-aligned investors.

DARA’s Global Vision

Though rooted in Malaysia, DARA’s influence is designed to be international. Incorporated in Switzerland, the agency connects ESG-certified digital assets with global institutions, regulators, and capital markets. With a leadership team experienced in sovereign wealth management and institutional investment, DARA positions itself as a thought leader in value-based, trusted DeFi engagement.

Thought Leadership Panel: Trust, ESG, and Shariah in the Digital Era

The launch also featured a panel discussion titled:
“Trust in Transition: Setting Standards for Stablecoins and Digital Assets with ESG Assurance and Shariah Compliance.”

Esteemed panelists included:

  • Mr. Wallace Yu, President of DARA
  • Prof. Anella Munro, Professor of Economics, Asia School of Business
  • Mr. Kevin Li, CFO, Country Garden Malaysia & Singapore
  • Mr. Eric Poon, President, Aurion Kendall

Charting a Trusted Future in Digital Finance

With the establishment of DARA and iDARA, Malaysia is poised to become a global innovation hub for transparent, trustworthy, and ethical digital finance. DARA now invites regulators, companies, and investors to engage, request ratings, and explore how ESG-assured digital assets can redefine the next generation of finance.