(Hanoi, May 27th 2011) - Today, Hong Leong Bank Vietnam (HLBVN) has officially announced it's joining Smartlink. The signing ceremony between HLBVN and Smartlink was represented by Mr. Yap Chee Woy, General Director of HLBVN and Ms. Nguyen Tu Anh, Chief Executive Officer of Smartlink respectively. The event, which signified HLBVN becoming a member of Smartlink, was held at the Priority Banking Centre of HLBVN Hanoi branch. This collaboration makes Hong Leong Bank Vietnam the first bank to offer free of charge services for 5 main kinds of transactions at over 5,500 ATMs nationwide within the Smartlink system.

Hong Leong Bank Vietnam Limited commenced operations in October 2009 in Ho Chi Minh City. After 6 months' operation, HLBVN developed a new 24-hour transaction channel to better serve its customers with the offering of ATM card and services.

In 2011, HLBVN has further expanded its footprint in Vietnam by launching a branch in Hanoi followed by its Priority Banking service, and now this alliance with the Smartlink. Currently, Smartlink's network has over 5,500 ATMs and more than 20,000 points of sale nationwide. The joining of Smartlink is another initiative of HLBVN to provide customers with convenience when accessing their funds and performing transactions including cash withdrawal, PIN change, printing of mini statement, balance enquiry and transfer of funds among HLBVN accounts through over 5,500 ATMs nationwide, at no cost through HLBVN

"By joining Smartlink System, customers of HLBVN will now have the flexibility and convenience to perform transactions at ATMs of other banks in the system without incurring any additional charge. The collaboration between Smartlink and HLBVN shows our commitment in diversifying services to meet our customers' needs. This marks a significant milestone for HLBVN in our expansion programme in Vietnam. We are committed to serving the Vietnamese market by offering the best and most up-to-date banking products and services as well as exclusive privileges." - said Mr. Yap Chee Woy .

According to Ms. Tu Anh: "This is the first major step of ours - the two parties aiming to create a solid foundation to develop other e-payment services, bringing more benefits for customers of HLBVN"

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