KUCHING: Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Openg today officially launched Affin Bank Bhd’s regional and corporate office, its first in Malaysia, saying that it is a recognition of Sarawak’s growing economic strength and importance in the nation.
He said Sarawak’s economy continues to expand with resilience, with its gross domestic product exceeding RM148 billion last year, making it the third-largest state economy in Malaysia.
“Under the Post Covid-19 Development Strategy, we are building new industries in hydrogen, digital transformation, advanced manufacturing and sustainable agriculture, while strengthening tourism and the creative economy.”
He said with renewable energy, innovation, and talent as the enablers, Sarawak is moving with purpose towards becoming a competitive, sustainable and inclusive economy by 2030.
He said the state needs a financial company that truly understands its priorities and remains close to the people.
“Starting today, decisions can be made right here in Kuching, ensuring that our community’s needs are addressed directly and effectively,” he said, adding that the new regional office brings expertise, authority and financial solutions to businesses, small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and communities.
He said it also provides direct access to advisory, investment and corporate banking services under one roof, namely Affin Bank, Affin Islamic, and Affin Hwang Investment Bank.
Abang Johari said that for Sarawak, the office serves as a gateway for the state’s exporters, investors, and entrepreneurs to access global markets, enabling them to compete both regionally and internationally.
The office is located at the 23-storey Hikmah Exchange, Sarawak’s first smart building that houses government agencies, financial institutions and multinational companies.
The Sarawak government, through its subsidiary, SG Assetfin Holdings Sdn Bhd, acquired a 31.25 per cent stake in Affin Bank in September 2024, making it the bank’s largest shareholder.
The investment was made by purchasing shares from the Armed Forces Fund Board and Boustead Holdings Bhd and is part of the state’s initiative to create a financial platform to boost its economy, support SMEs and ensure greater financial autonomy.
Present at the opening ceremony were Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian, state Women, Childhood and Community Wellbeing Development Minister Datuk Seri Fatimah Abdullah, acting Sarawak State Secretary Datuk Seri Dr Muhammad Abdullah Zaidel and Affin Bank Bhd president and group chief executive officer Datuk Wan Razly Abdullah.
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