Top 50 Malaysia » From Century-Old Roots to Regional Powerhouse: How Hong Leong Bank Is Redefining Modern Banking in Southeast Asia

From Century-Old Roots to Regional Powerhouse: How Hong Leong Bank Is Redefining Modern Banking in Southeast Asia

Among the many prominent financial institutions in Malaysia, few carry the same blend of deep-rooted history and future-ready innovation as【 Hong Leong Bank 】. As one of the top five banks in Malaysia, this powerhouse doesn’t just dominate the local market — it’s rapidly expanding across the region, with strong footprints in Singapore, Hong Kong, Vietnam, Cambodia, and China, positioning itself as a true ASEAN financial leader.


From “Kwong Lee Mortgage” to Multinational Banking Group: A Century in the Making

Founded in 1905 in Kuching, Sarawak, under the name Kwong Lee Mortgage & Remittance Company, Hong Leong Bank’s history is intricately tied to the rise of Malaysia’s financial sector. It officially became a publicly listed entity on the Kuala Lumpur Stock Exchange (now Bursa Malaysia) on October 17, 1994, marking a significant milestone in its corporate journey.

Today, with over 300 branches nationwide, Hong Leong Bank operates a vast financial network that seamlessly serves both urban centers and rural communities across the country. It has not only preserved its heritage but also transformed itself into a tech-savvy, customer-centric banking institution.


Hong Leong Bank | Driven by Technology, Not Just Tradition

While many banks still cling to legacy systems, Hong Leong Bank has boldly transitioned into the digital era. Through its digital-first approach, the bank now offers online account opening, AI-driven loan approvals, and intelligent virtual assistants, setting new industry standards for seamless financial interactions.

Whether you’re in a Kuala Lumpur high-rise or a café in Cambodia, you can connect with Hong Leong Bank anytime, anywhere, thanks to its robust digital infrastructure and cloud-based services.


Green Is the New Growth|Championing ESG for a Sustainable Tomorrow

In today’s finance world, sustainability isn’t just a buzzword — it’s a responsibility. Hong Leong Bank has taken real, measurable steps to integrate ESG (Environmental, Social & Governance) into its strategy. From promoting green financing initiatives to supporting low-carbon business projects, the bank is aligning its values with the planet’s needs.

Its commitment to building eco-friendly branches and financing clean tech businesses sets it apart from competitors as a future-focused financial enabler.


Human-Centered Innovation: Banking for All, Not Just the Few

Though tech is at its core, Hong Leong Bank never loses sight of the human element. Whether it’s offering tailored personal financial services, SME loans, or comprehensive wealth management for high-net-worth individuals, the bank provides bespoke financial solutions designed around real-life needs.

By supporting multi-language platforms, empowering local branches, and enhancing customer engagement tools, Hong Leong Bank ensures that personalized service remains at the heart of its digital transformation.


Hong Leong Bank | A Legacy Reimagined: From Stability to Smart, Scalable Growth

Facing the rise of AI, blockchain, Web 3.0, and more, Hong Leong Bank is not standing still. Instead, it’s actively rebuilding its digital architecture, exploring open banking models, digital asset innovations, and expanding its ecosystem through strategic partnerships.

Its commitment to financial inclusion across rural and urban populations alike is also bridging socioeconomic gaps — making high-quality, secure financial services available to all.

Leave a Reply

Back To Top