KLSCM 2026: Standard Chartered Malaysia’s Mushahid Syed on leadership, purpose and his first half marathon

Training for the race has also given him a rare vantage point on himself, one quite different from the view afforded by a boardroom. “A board meeting is about making decisions and solving problems efficiently. Running, on the other hand, creates space to think. During a long run, I often find myself reflecting on my family, my team and the things I’m grateful for. Those quieter moments help me return to work with greater clarity and perspective.”

Running, he says, also sharpens him for the demands of banking itself. “Running has taught me the importance of discipline and consistency. It also provides a valuable opportunity to reset and clear my mind, which ultimately improves my focus and creates space for fresh thinking. There is also something powerful about committing to a goal that cannot be achieved overnight. Whether that’s preparing for a half marathon or leading a business, success is ultimately built on many small actions repeated consistently over time.”

Away from spreadsheets, strategy and now training schedules, Mushahid is quick to point out that his sense of self has little to do with his job title. Asked how he would like to be remembered by those closest to him, he says: “I hope they would say I’m someone who stays grounded, regardless of my role or job title. Outside of work, I’m a husband, a father to two energetic children and someone who values simple moments with family.”

His family, he suspects, would describe him in much the same way, albeit through a more playful lens. “My children would probably say I enjoy turning everyday moments into opportunities to learn something new together. My friends might say I’m dependable and perhaps a little too analytical at times. Ultimately, I try to be present, whether that’s supporting my family and colleagues, spending time with friends or pursuing personal challenges like training for my first half marathon this year!”

A career spent moving across markets and into progressively senior roles could easily reshape a person’s priorities. For Mushahid, three qualities have remained constant throughout: curiosity, humility and authenticity.

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“Working across different markets has taught me that no matter how senior you become, there is always something new to learn and someone you can learn from,” he explains. “I’ve also tried to stay true to the values I grew up with–treating people with respect, listening carefully and focusing on doing the right thing even when it’s not the easiest path.” He sums it up simply: “Titles and responsibilities evolve over time, but character and values shouldn’t.”

Those same principles shape how he is raising his own children in an uncertain world. “The world is changing rapidly, so I believe the most important thing is to imbue in them a natural sense of curiosity so they can learn how to analyse different situations and make the best decisions for themselves,” he says.

“I encourage my children to stay curious, be adaptable and never be afraid of failure. Resilience is another quality I value tremendously, as setbacks are inevitable in life, and what ultimately matters the most is how we respond to these adversities. Equally important is empathy. Success means little if it isn’t accompanied by kindness and an understanding of the people around you. I hope they grow up believing that achievement and compassion can–and should–go hand in hand.”

Before banking, Mushahid studied chemistry, a background he credits with shaping how he leads today. “Science teaches you not to jump to conclusions. You start with evidence, test assumptions and remain open to different outcomes. That mindset remains incredibly relevant in banking and leadership.”

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The discipline runs deeper still. “Chemistry also taught me that small variables can have significant consequences. In leadership, seemingly small decisions or behaviours can compound over time and shape culture, performance and outcomes.” And, he adds, “science teaches intellectual humility. Sometimes your hypothesis is wrong, and when that happens, you need the discipline to learn, adapt and move forward.”

Reflecting on the people who have influenced his leadership journey, Mushahid is quick to credit others rather than claim the credit himself. “I’ve been fortunate to learn from many leaders throughout my career, and I have benefitted from and taken onboard advice from different mentors, colleagues and family members, who have all contributed to keeping me grounded. The best leaders I’ve worked with are the ones who have brought out the best in me and many others, especially during difficult moments. They often also remind me that success isn’t defined solely by professional achievements; rather it’s about the impact you make on others while staying true to your values.”

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