KUALA LUMPUR: AFFIN Tower’s opening at Tun Razak Exchange (TRX) marks a strategic move by Sarawak to boost local financial institutions’ speed, integration and competitiveness in a challenging global economy.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said that a corporate headquarters should not be viewed merely as an operational address, but rather as a strategic execution “engine” that determines governance standards, internal efficiency and an institution’s ability to adapt to high-speed change.
According to him, the current landscape requires financial institutions to move beyond incremental improvements toward more significant capability leaps encompassing enhanced systems, faster decision-making processes and more disciplined execution.
“The question is no longer whether we are moving forward, but whether we are moving fast enough and whether we are building the capabilities that enable us to advance with confidence.
“In a fast-paced world, incremental improvements are no longer sufficient to close the gap. What is needed is a leap in capabilities through enhanced systems, stronger execution and readiness to surge ahead when circumstances demand,” he said.
He said this during the AFFIN Tower Inauguration Ceremony at TRX, Kuala Lumpur on Saturday.
He added that the AFFIN Tower aligns with efforts to strengthen Malaysia’s position as a regional financial hub, particularly in attracting investments, bringing together talent and accelerating financial decision-making at national and regional levels.
In the context of Sarawak, he emphasised that the presence of state institutions within the country’s main financial ecosystem forms part of a long-term strategy to support purpose-driven, sustainable, and inclusive economic growth.
“The Sarawak Sovereign Wealth Future Fund Board has established its office in Kuala Lumpur at this tower as an initial step, and we look forward to more Sarawak institutions establishing a presence here in the future.
“This reflects confidence in the area and the belief that Sarawak’s aspirations are firmly positioned on the national and regional stage,” he added.
Meanwhile, Abang Johari also welcomed market recognition of AFFIN’s progress, including the retention of an international A3 credit rating by Moody’s Ratings and the successful inaugural issuance of a US$300 million US-dollar bond.
“These achievements elevate AFFIN’s standing and have a positive impact on the wider ecosystem, including businesses in Sarawak that value strong financial partners as they expand and compete.
“Additionally, AFFIN’s upgrade in the FTSE4Good rating from three stars to four stars reflects stronger sustainability performance and higher standards expected of modern institutions,” he said.
