Customer Due Diligence Specialist

About the Role

We are seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented Customer Due Diligence (CDD) Specialist to join our dynamic digital banking team. In this critical role, you will ensure compliance with Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Counter Financing of Terrorism (CFT) regulations by conducting thorough due diligence and risk assessments on customers. You will be responsible for reviewing customer information, verifying documentation, and identifying potential risks in accordance with Bank Negara Malaysia guidelines and internal compliance standards.

The ideal candidate will possess strong analytical skills, meticulous attention to detail, and a proactive approach to maintaining the highest standards of regulatory compliance and financial integrity in a fast-paced digital banking environment.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Document Review

• Review and validate all customer identification and supporting documents (NRIC, business registration, beneficial ownership, source of funds/wealth, etc.) to ensure accuracy and completeness.

• Identify discrepancies, expired documentation, or missing information and initiate timely follow-ups.

2. Risk Assessment

• Perform CDD, EDD, and ODD reviews based on customer risk levels, ensuring alignment with the AML/CFT Policy Document (BNM).

• Conduct detailed risk assessments for onboarding, trigger events, and periodic reviews, identifying potential money laundering, terrorist financing, or sanction-related risks.

• Identify and escalate red flags or unusual patterns in line with escalation procedures.

• Prepare and maintain dashboards and regular Management Information packs for the team and key stakeholders.

• Create, update and maintain data and records related to all supporting information used during investigation.

3. Alert Resolution

• Conduct screening against sanction, PEP, and adverse media lists using internal and external databases (e.g., Dow Jones, or similar).

• Perform accurate hit dispositioning — differentiating between false positives, partial matches, and true matches.

• Escalate potential true matches for further review, ensuring appropriate documentation and audit trail.

• Maintain awareness of updated sanction programs, watchlists, and country risk advisories.

• Perform enhanced and ongoing due diligence for higher-risk or politically exposed customers, ensuring timely completion within SLA.

4. Communication

• Manage outbound queries related to CDD/EDD requests.

• Ensure timely follow-up and clear, professional communication.

5. AML Compliance

• Escalate potential matches or hits in accordance with AML guidelines.

• Report suspicious activities promptly and accurately.

6. Continuous Learning & Improvement

• Stay updated with sanction lists, regulatory developments, and industry changes.

• Recommend and implement process improvements based on new insights.

• Participate in AML/CFT-related training, workshops, and internal capability-building sessions.

7. Collaboration

• Share insights and provide support to enhance overall team performance.

• Collaborate effectively with peers and seniors to ensure team productivity and compliance targets are achieved.

Requirements:

• Proven experience in AML operations or compliance, preferably in CDD analysis.

• Strong understanding of AML regulations and procedures.

• Excellent analytical skills with strong attention to detail.

• Effective communication and interpersonal skills.

• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team environment.

• Strong writing, analytical and communications skills. Must be able to execute tasks within tight deadlines.

Benefits:

• Be part of a fast-growing digital bank that values innovation and people-first culture.

• Gain exposure to diverse hiring projects and talent strategies.

• Opportunity to collaborate with dynamic leaders and cross-functional teams.

• Enjoy a competitive compensation package and career development opportunities.

What We Value:

• Revolutionary in our thinking

• Innovative in our products, services, and the way we work

• Genuine in our intentions

• Honourable in our actions

• Tenacious in overcoming challenges