Melaka: The opening of Bank Muamalat Malaysia Bhd’s new branch in Melaka, launched today, strengthens the bank’s commitment to expanding its Islamic banking network and services in the state.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, its president and chief executive officer, Khairul Kamarudin, said the new branch, which begins operations at the Melaka International Bowling Centre (MIBC) in Ayer Keroh on April 28, has already attracted over 400 new customers and recorded business transactions exceeding RM4.9 million within a month.
Khairul stated that the new branch is not just a premise, but a commitment to supporting Melaka’s economic growth. Since its opening, the response from the community has been positive. The branch’s strategic location in the administrative and industrial center allows the bank to deliver value directly and effectively to local entrepreneurs, the community, and government agencies.
He made these remarks in his speech at the launch of Bank Muamalat Melaka Branch officiated by Melaka Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh. Khairul emphasized that the new branch offers a wide range of services including deposit and investment accounts, housing, personal and business financing, Ar-Rahnu services, gold investment, unit trust, and takaful. The branch is also an official agent for Amanah Saham Nasional Bhd, zakat, and Tabung Haji services.
Khairul mentioned that the bank is ready to collaborate with the Melaka state government on development initiatives such as Islamic entrepreneurship programmes, economic empowerment for the B40 group, rural digital transformation, and cashless transaction initiatives, particularly in tourist locations and rural communities. He expressed confidence that this branch will strengthen their role as a strategic partner in the state’s development and is a manifestation of Bank Muamalat’s long-term commitment to expanding access to Islamic financial services.
At the end of last year, Bank Muamalat opened two new branches in Melaka, in Jasin and Alor Gajah, as well as an Ar-Rahnu centre in Sungai Udang, bringing the total to 70 branches nationwide.
Meanwhile, Ab Rauf highlighted that the state government is open to exploring various forms of collaboration with Bank Muamalat, whether in development, welfare, or financial education. This effort aligns with the state government’s aspirations through the Melakaku Maju Jaya Strategic Plan (PSMJ) 2035, which includes focusing on Shariah-compliant economic development, the halal industry, and sustainable investment.
The state government is also concentrating on empowering entrepreneurs, particularly in the micro, small, and medium enterprise (MSME) sector. As of May this year, more than 34,900 MSMEs are registered in Melaka, with over 300 halal products recognized by the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM).