In Malaysia’s financial landscape, the name Maybank is far more than just a brand—it is a symbol of trust, strength, and Southeast Asian pride. As the largest bank by market capitalization and assets in Malaysia, and one of the biggest in the ASEAN region, Maybank has transformed from a local pioneer into a global financial powerhouse. With over 2,600 branches worldwide and a bold vision for the future, Maybank continues to set the benchmark in modern banking, technological innovation, and social impact.
1. The Beginning of a Dream: Two Founders and a New Era in Finance
Maybank, officially known as Malayan Banking Berhad, was established on May 31, 1960, and began operations just a few months later on September 12 in Kuala Lumpur. It was the brainchild of visionary entrepreneurs Tan Sri Khoo Teck Puat, a Singaporean business magnate, and his partner Wong Tin Yeow. Their mission was clear—to create a homegrown bank that would support Malaya’s economic independence.
In just two years, Maybank was successfully listed on the Kuala Lumpur Stock Exchange, marking the beginning of a meteoric rise as a trusted financial institution throughout the nation.
2. Maybank | From Local Roots to Global Reach: Maybank’s Expansion Blueprint
What began as a single bank in Kuala Lumpur has grown into Southeast Asia’s largest banking group. Maybank’s network now spans all 10 ASEAN countries, as well as global financial hubs in China, the US, the UK, and the Middle East.
By 2019, the group’s total assets surpassed USD 203 billion, with net profits reaching USD 1.98 billion. Today, over 43,000 employees serve customers from more than 2,600 retail branches worldwide, delivering reliable, innovative, and inclusive banking services.
3. Anchored in Three Core Markets: Malaysia, Singapore, and Indonesia
Rather than spreading itself thin, Maybank has focused on building depth in three core home markets: Malaysia, Singapore, and Indonesia.
- In Malaysia, it is the undisputed household name in banking.
- In Singapore, Maybank excels in cross-border services and wealth management.
- In Indonesia, Maybank Indonesia continues to grow rapidly as a promising foreign bank player.
4. Digital Transformation: From Maybank2u to the Smart Bank of Tomorrow
Innovation is deeply embedded in Maybank’s DNA. As early as 2000, it launched Maybank2u, one of Malaysia’s first full-featured online banking platforms. Today, the Maybank2u app boasts millions of downloads and remains one of the most popular mobile banking apps in the country.
The group is also investing heavily in the future—introducing AI-powered customer service, blockchain-based settlement solutions, and digital wealth advisory tools. These initiatives mark Maybank’s evolution into a true smart bank.
5. Beyond Finance: A Bank with Heart and Social Purpose
Maybank isn’t just about profits—it’s about people. Through the Maybank Foundation, the group drives initiatives in education, women empowerment, environmental sustainability, and entrepreneurship.
Key programs like R.I.S.E. (Reach Independence & Sustainable Entrepreneurship) and the Maybank Women Eco-Weavers Program have impacted thousands of lives across the region, proving that banks can be agents of meaningful change.
6. Maybank | Bridging Southeast Asia’s Economic Future
Maybank today represents more than a financial institution—it stands for stability, innovation, and regional economic leadership. In an era of economic uncertainty, Maybank remains a pillar of trust, fueled by a forward-thinking strategy and deep local insights.
Whether you’re an individual saver, a small business owner, or a global corporation, Maybank is positioned to help connect you to the future of finance—secure, smart, and sustainable.