By Ashley Sim
KUCHING, April 27: Financial institutions such as Affin Bank are crucial partners in Sarawak’s journey to become a high-income and innovation-led economy ahead of 2030, while small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are set to gain stronger financial support with the launch of Affin Bank’s latest branch at iCom Square, Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said today.
Abang Johari said Sarawak is firmly on track to achieve its high-income state aspiration ahead of schedule, thanks to the strategic support of institutions like Affin Bank.
“Small and medium-sized enterprises are not just contributors to GDP—they are the heartbeat of Sarawak’s economy. They create jobs, power local innovation, and serve as the primary engine of inclusive growth.
“To unlock their full potential, we must continue building an environment where local enterprises can thrive, through better access to financing, business support services, and digital capabilities,” he said in a speech delivered by Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas at the official launch of the Affin iCom Square Branch here today.
The Premier also highlighted that financial institutions must do more than simply manage capital. Instead, they must unlock growth through intelligence, equity, and a strong commitment to sustainable development.
“With Affin’s comprehensive range of banking products and services, Sarawak is paving the way for a more financially inclusive society where opportunity reaches all,” he said.
Abang Johari emphasised that meaningful development must begin with access — to capital, financial services, and tools that empower entrepreneurship and upward mobility.
“For our rural communities, small businesses, and youth stepping into the digital economy, banking must be not only accessible but also empowering,” he said, adding that Affin’s efforts align with Sarawak’s push towards inclusive and resilient economic growth.
He also noted that projects such as the Tanjung Embang deep-sea port, the new international airport, and the Borneo Renewable Energy Corridor will require innovative financing models focused on long-term value creation.
“Affin’s ability to provide financial solutions and support will be key to bridging our strategic infrastructure vision with the capital needed to make it a reality,” he said.
At the same time, the Premier emphasised the importance of innovation, urging financial institutions to scale with ambition through digitalisation, cashless ecosystems, and tailored financial solutions to meet the evolving needs of a modern, connected Sarawak.
“Innovation must remain a core enabler. Financial access is a right, not a luxury. By working with partners like Affin who share this belief, we are building a more balanced and competitive Sarawak,” he added.
Meanwhile, Affin Group President and Group Chief Executive Officer Datuk Wan Razly Abdullah Wan Ali said the new branch, strategically located in Kuching’s central business district with excellent connectivity via Jalan Pending and Jalan Datuk Abang Abdul Rahim, is positioned to deliver a dynamic range of financial solutions tailored to businesses, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and the broader community.
He noted that the branch’s establishment is in line with Affin Axelerate 2028 (AX28) Strategic Plan, particularly its core pillar of providing unrivalled customer service through greater agility, accessibility, and impact.
“We believe this positioning will enable us to better serve the community and contribute meaningfully to Sarawak’s continued growth,” he said.
In conjunction with the launch, Affin also introduced the Affin Kenyalang Card, inspired by the majestic hornbill — a symbol of strength, pride, and Sarawak’s rich cultural heritage.
The exclusive card, which will be officially launched by the Premier of Sarawak later in the evening, is available to residents and non-residents with a valid Sarawak address, individuals aged 18 and above, and all ‘Anak Sarawak’ holders (MyKad with ‘K’).
Also present at the ceremony were Sarawak State Secretary (Economic Planning and Development) Dato Sri Dr Muhammad Abdullah Zaidel, Affin Bank Berhad chairman Dato’ Agil Natt, and Affin Islamic Bank Berhad chairman Musa Abdul Malik. — DayakDaily
