KUALA LUMPUR (April 9): Several banking institutions on Thursday rolled out targeted assistance measures to support customers facing financial strain amid heightened global geopolitical uncertainties.
They include Alliance Bank Malaysia Bhd (KL:ABMB), Standard Chartered Malaysia, Public Bank Bhd (KL:PBBANK) and Affin Bank Bhd (KL:AFFIN).
In separate statements, the banks said the measures are aimed at easing short-term financial pressures and helping individuals and businesses, including small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and corporates, navigate the challenging environment.
Alliance Bank said it will provide targeted assistance to both individuals and businesses with applications assessed on a case-by-case basis, taking into account each customer’s financial circumstances.
Standard Chartered Malaysia said it remains committed to supporting clients facing financial pressures, in line with broader efforts to ensure economic stability and financial resilience, adding that it will engage closely with affected clients to provide tailored assistance during this period of heightened uncertainty.
Meanwhile, Public Bank and its Islamic banking arm said they are extending repayment assistance to loan and financing customers impacted by the situation, including options such as rescheduling and restructuring of facilities for both individual and business customers.
Affin Bank said it has introduced targeted financial assistance covering individuals, SMEs and corporate clients experiencing financial difficulties amid the uncertain global environment, with applications assessed on a case-by-case basis.
The move comes as Malaysia, like many economies globally, faces rising external risks stemming from escalating tensions in West Asia. The situation has driven a spike in global oil prices, raising concerns over inflationary pressures, business costs and household spending power.
All four banks encouraged customers who anticipate difficulties in meeting their repayment obligations to reach out early via their respective relationship managers or official customer service channels.
The banks said they will continue to monitor developments closely and remain committed to supporting customers through the period of heightened uncertainty.