KUCHING: AFFIN Bank Berhad is optimistic about Malaysia’s economic outlook for 2025, forecasting a strong GDP growth of 5.2 per cent.
Its president and chief executive officer, Wan Razly Abdullah Wan Ali, shared that the positive outlook is driven by several factors, including elevated oil prices projected to remain at USD75 per barrel due to production constraints from major suppliers, and strong demand for vegetable oil, which is expected to keep crude palm oil (CPO) prices at RM4,275 per metric tonne.
In addition, he said that AFFIN anticipates the Ringgit will strengthen to RM4.10 against the US Dollar, supported by strong foreign direct investment (FDI) sentiment and government measures to address the budget deficit, including a reduction in fuel subsidies.
“The Kuala Lumpur Composite Index (KLCI) is also expected to rise to 1,850 points, reflecting a 13 per cent year-on-year increase, outperforming the MSCI ex-Japan index,” he said at the Affin Bank Chinese New Year (CNY) dinner at the Sheraton Hotel on Monday.
He further reaffirmed the bank’s commitment to going beyond traditional banking, focusing on financial excellence and long-term relationships in line with its vision to become Malaysia’s most creative and innovative financial institution.
“Our commitment is to serve all segments — from consumers and corporates to SMEs — with our award-winning financial services.
“In Sarawak, we continue to expand our presence with the addition of two new branches in Bintulu Springville and iCom Square, Kuching, bringing the total to eight across the state. By July 2025, we plan to increase the number of branches in Sarawak to 14.
“In addition, our loans in Sarawak have grown by 10 per cent in 2024, reaching RM3.2 billion, and we aim for a 12 per cent growth in 2025. This highlights our bold vision and unwavering commitment to driving exceptional progress,” he said.
Wan Razly further shared that sustainability remains a priority for AFFIN, with efforts directed toward financial inclusion and corporate social responsibility.
“We exceeded our 2024 target for sustainable financing and aim for 15 per cent of our total loan portfolio to consist of environmentally and socially responsible financing.
“This aligns with AFFIN’s commitment to supporting projects that have a positive impact on the environment and society,” he said.
As part of its efforts, he said that AFFIN was the first financial institution to partner with the Selangor State and The Ocean Cleanup initiative, utilising the Interceptor to improve the Klang River’s water quality. This project was recognised as one of the most impactful environmental initiatives of 2024.
“Furthermore, AFFIN was also newly included in the FTSE4Good Bursa Malaysia Index in December 2024.
“With these achievements, we believe that together, we can create a tangible impact on the communities we serve and ensure that we leave everything we touch in a better state than we found it,” he said.
KUCHING: AFFIN Bank Berhad is optimistic about Malaysia’s economic outlook for 2025, forecasting a strong GDP growth of 5.2 per cent.
Its president and chief executive officer, Wan Razly Abdullah Wan Ali, shared that the positive outlook is driven by several factors, including elevated oil prices projected to remain at USD75 per barrel due to production constraints from major suppliers, and strong demand for vegetable oil, which is expected to keep crude palm oil (CPO) prices at RM4,275 per metric tonne.
In addition, he said that AFFIN anticipates the Ringgit will strengthen to RM4.10 against the US Dollar, supported by strong foreign direct investment (FDI) sentiment and government measures to address the budget deficit, including a reduction in fuel subsidies.
“The Kuala Lumpur Composite Index (KLCI) is also expected to rise to 1,850 points, reflecting a 13 per cent year-on-year increase, outperforming the MSCI ex-Japan index,” he said at the Affin Bank Chinese New Year (CNY) dinner at the Sheraton Hotel on Monday.
He further reaffirmed the bank’s commitment to going beyond traditional banking, focusing on financial excellence and long-term relationships in line with its vision to become Malaysia’s most creative and innovative financial institution.
“Our commitment is to serve all segments — from consumers and corporates to SMEs — with our award-winning financial services.
“In Sarawak, we continue to expand our presence with the addition of two new branches in Bintulu Springville and iCom Square, Kuching, bringing the total to eight across the state. By July 2025, we plan to increase the number of branches in Sarawak to 14.
“In addition, our loans in Sarawak have grown by 10 per cent in 2024, reaching RM3.2 billion, and we aim for a 12 per cent growth in 2025. This highlights our bold vision and unwavering commitment to driving exceptional progress,” he said.
Wan Razly further shared that sustainability remains a priority for AFFIN, with efforts directed toward financial inclusion and corporate social responsibility.
“We exceeded our 2024 target for sustainable financing and aim for 15 per cent of our total loan portfolio to consist of environmentally and socially responsible financing.
“This aligns with AFFIN’s commitment to supporting projects that have a positive impact on the environment and society,” he said.
As part of its efforts, he said that AFFIN was the first financial institution to partner with the Selangor State and The Ocean Cleanup initiative, utilising the Interceptor to improve the Klang River’s water quality. This project was recognised as one of the most impactful environmental initiatives of 2024.
“Furthermore, AFFIN was also newly included in the FTSE4Good Bursa Malaysia Index in December 2024.
“With these achievements, we believe that together, we can create a tangible impact on the communities we serve and ensure that we leave everything we touch in a better state than we found it,” he said.
