Affin Bank can catalyse sme growth in strategic sectors, says Abang Johari

KUCHING: Affin Bank Bhd is well-positioned to catalyse the growth of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in Sarawak by offering targeted financing, digital transformation support, and non-financial capacity building aligned with the state’s strategic economic sectors.

Premier of Sarawak Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said the bank should also deepen its role in empowering SMEs through inclusive initiatives and financial literacy programmes, in line with Sarawak’s aspiration to become a high-income, innovation-driven economy.

“For non-financial support, through programmes like AFFIN BizChat, the bank can provide SMEs with access to business resources, market insights, and best practices, empowering them to innovate and grow sustainably.

“Affin Bank can prioritise lending and advisory services for SMEs in sectors central to Sarawak’s diversification, such as agro-based ventures, tourism, manufacturing, technology, and the green economy,” he said. 

The text of his speech was read by Sarawak Financial Secretary Datuk Seri Dr Wan Lizozman Wan Omar at the launch of Affin Bank Jalan Satok Branch, here, today. 

Abang Johari said the bank’s continued presence and expansion in the state should be matched with a deeper commitment to supporting the SME ecosystem, particularly in rural and semi-urban areas that are pivotal to Sarawak’s economic transformation agenda.

Looking ahead, he said Affin Bank has the potential to evolve into not only a leading national bank but also a regional financial powerhouse by embracing cutting-edge innovations such as artificial intelligence (AI)-powered financial assistants, automated loan approvals, digital wallets and open banking platforms. 

Meanwhile, Affin Bank president and group chief executive officer Datuk Wan Razly Abdullah said the branch expansion marks a step forward in broadening the bank’s reach and enhancing its capabilities to better serve retail, SME, and corporate clients through specialised solutions in trade finance, advisory and transactional banking.

“By deepening our presence in this vibrant community, we are not only improving accessibility but also reinforcing our commitment to delivering innovative, customer-centric financial solutions that empower individuals and businesses to reach their full potential,” he added. – Bernama