Kota Kinabalu (Jan 25) - AFFIN Bank Berhad Group is set to open its Sabah Regional Office in Kota Kinabalu by March 2026, marking a major milestone as the banking group commemorates its 50th anniversary this year. The plan was announced during the AFFIN Group Market Outlook and Chinese New Year Dinner held in the state capital.
The event was graced by Sabah Head of State Tun Musa Haji Aman and Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor. Tun Musa was noted to have previously held a stake in the bank before entering politics. The occasion underscored the longstanding relationship between AFFIN and Sabah, highlighting the state’s importance in the group’s national strategy.
AFFIN views Sabah as a key growth region, citing the strength of its entrepreneurs and small and medium enterprises, its tourism and hospitality sector, established trade and supply chains, rich natural resources, and the resilience of its people. The decision to set up a regional office reflects a deliberate and long-term commitment to better serve Sabah through stronger local engagement.
For Sabahans, the establishment of a regional office means banking decisions can be made closer to the ground. This is expected to translate into faster responses, services that better reflect local realities, and stronger support for businesses across the state. By anchoring decision-making locally, AFFIN aims to improve access to financing and financial solutions for households, entrepreneurs and companies, particularly those operating outside the Klang Valley.
The announcement comes as AFFIN celebrates its golden jubilee, a period described as a transition into a new phase of growth built on trust, governance and long-term partnerships. The group will also mark this milestone with its 50th Anniversary Gala Dinner and Showcase on Feb 7, 2026, at MITEC in Kuala Lumpur.
As part of its future direction, AFFIN continues to emphasise the broader role of banks in supporting communities, job creation and economic opportunity. This approach is guided by the group’s AXELERATE 2028 plan, which is built on three core pillars: Unrivalled Customer Service, Digital Leadership, and Responsible Banking with Impact. Together, these pillars are intended to ensure sustainable growth while maintaining confidence, integrity and accountability—factors that directly affect the quality and reliability of banking services available to Sabahans.