Hong Leong Bank Enhances Presence in Penang

Branch in historic mansion on Light Street upgraded for customers

Penang, 27 October 2010 - 1 Light Street, a historic site, has been re-invigorated by the upgrading of Hong Leong Bank's flagship branch housed within. The 12,000 square foot branch was launched by Yvonne Chia, Group Managing Director of Hong Leong Bank Berhad.

"Penang is an important economic stronghold, for both the nation and Hong Leong Bank. We are committed to embedment into communities throughout the state of Penang - our renewal of our 1 Light Street branch is symbolic of this commitment. We have 16 branches in Penang and it is one of the key states for our growth strategy going forward," explained Ms. Chia.

"Our goal remains to be a meaningful player in the growth of Penang: catalysing economic activity and embedding ourselves into the communities. Much like the first owner of 1 Light Street - the esteemed merchant tycoon and community leader, Foo Tye Sin," added Ms. Chia.

The relaunch of HLB's 1 Light Street branch follows the recent opening of 4 new and relocated branches in the Klang Valley. Whilst an important aspect of HLB's branch transformation exercise is expansion into new communities, equal focus will be directed to enhancing the Bank's service and existing relationships.HLB's Jalan Pending, Kuching branch in Sarawak will be relaunched in a few weeks, and about one-fifth of the Bank's network is slated for upgrade or relocation to more convenient sites by the middle of next year. All in all, the Bank will invest in the rejuvenation of about 250,000 square feet of branch space for its valued existing customers.

"Hong Leong Bank is an institution founded on long-term vision and sustainability. We are dedicated to the customers who have continued to trust and choose us for their banking needs over the years. We will continue to allocate significant resources to reach out and build relationships with the community. Our renewed 1 Light Street branch is another affirmation to our customers in Penang that we are on the ground to develop and be their partners in their personal and business lives," concluded Ms. Chia.

he upgraded 1 Light Street branch in Penang offers HLB's Personal Financial Services, a Priority Banking Centre, Commercial/SME Centre and branch banking transaction services. Also for customers' convenience, there is an eBanking Centre open 24/7 with 3 ATMs, 3 Cash Deposit Machines and 2 Cheque Deposit Machines.

-END-Press Release - 27/10/2010