HLB bags JPMorgan Elite Quality Award for the 3rd time

Kuala Lumpur, 30 June 2009

HLB recognized again for its high quality funds transfer operations

Hong Leong Bank (HLB) once again received the coveted JPMorgan Chase 'MT202 Elite Quality Recognition Award' in recognition of its commitment to qualityand consistent high performance and standards in the area of funds transfer operations management. Elite awards presented to JPMorgan's clients are givenin recognition of the highest level of performance and for achieving outstanding straight-through results by properly formatting their SWIFT payments.

The review undertaken in 2008 showed that HLB had clearly excelled in meeting its operating challenges and exceeded the stringent criteria for the 'MT202Elite Quality Recognition Award' for its straight-through processing (STP) rate for its funds transfer operations management. The achievement is even moreastounding given that less than 1% of JPMorgan's total fund transfer clients are able to meet the criteria to qualify for the award.

"Hong Leong Bank recognizes the need for differentiation in the industry and we are proud that for the third successive year, our quality of service haswon us the JPMorgan Chase 'MT202 Elite Quality Recognition Award'," said Ms Yvonne Chia, Group Managing Director of Hong Leong Bank.

" Besides the JPMorgan Chase 'MT202 Elite Quality Recognition Award', HLB has also won the JPMorgan Chase 'MT103 Standard Award' for the second consecutiveyear. We are extremely proud that our efforts are being recognized and appreciated by industry leaders and our valued clients," she added.

"We are continuously steeping up our capabilities and the efficiency of our operations as we endeavor to extend our lead in this sector. By winning theseprestigious recognitions, we believe that it serves to also act as an indicator for our customers to feel secure and to further place their trust with theBank," she concluded.

JPMorgan Chase Bank has been awarding Institutions and Corporates with the 'Quality Recognition Award' since 1997. The award is given each year following acontinual review process designed to identify and reward companies that have demonstrated their ability to meet the stringent criteria.

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Press Release - 30/06/2009