Since its inception in 1926, The Banker, a publication owned by Financial Times U.K. has been a trusted source of global financial intelligence. Given its exclusive bank listings and banking coverage, it is uniquely placed to bring worldwide perspective to associated awards.

The Banker Awards is a unique celebration of excellence for the Banking World. Each year awards are presented to the Best Bank of The Year in 140 countries, plus further awards for outstanding dedication and innovation.

The Banker Awards goes beyond The Banker's top 2000 global banks ranking, published each July, by looking at more than just hard statistics. All banks invited to enter are hand-picked by The Banker and asked to answer questions on their growth and performance in terms of tier one capital, assets and return on equity. Added to this, they must demonstrate how the use of technology is helping them to advance their market position and show how their banking structure and strategy will equip them for future developments in their market.

All these factors are taken into consideration by The Banker's global editorial team in awarding "Bank of the Year" for Brunei Darussalam for the year 2002 to Baiduri Bank. This is the first time that The Banker has given an award to a bank in Brunei Darussalam. Baiduri Bank established in August 1994 is now the second largest bank in Brunei Darussalam after achieving impressive growth in the last few years. By winning this award, Baiduri Bank receives international recognition for its strategy, innovation, supported by massive investment in new systems and technologies. Baiduri Bank focuses on client service and innovation. It is the first bank in Brunei Darussalam to introduce In-Store Banking, Internet Banking, Mobile Banking, International Debit Card and Pre-paid Cash Card.