KUALA LUMPUR: Hong Leong Bank Bhd
(HLB) has been named Malaysia’s Best Managed Bank at the 2026 Global Leadership Achievement Awards by The Asian Banker, while its group managing director and CEO Kevin Lam was named Best Bank CEO in Malaysia.
In a statement, the bank said the recognition was attributed to its efforts in modernising its digital foundation, reducing reliance on legacy technology and improving operational efficiency through a three- to five-year transformation plan.
HLB said the transformation included the introduction of a “Quantum Growth” strategy and a “One Bank” operating model aimed at integrating operations across the group.
HLB said the initiative contributed to a cost-to-income ratio that has remained below 40%, alongside a gross impaired loan ratio below 0.65%.
Lam said the bank’s transformation focused on building infrastructure supported by artificial intelligence and data-driven systems to deliver more personalised financial services.
“This recognition may seem like a finish line, but for us it’s a catalyst for our next phase of evolution.
“Our transformation journey was about building a future-ready infrastructure where AI and data-driven insights allow us to move from generic services to efficiently delivering hyper-personalised financial solutions,” Lam said.
“Looking ahead, we will continue to pioneer products that don't just meet market standards, but anticipate the specific, evolving needs of our customers in an increasingly complex global economy,” he added.
HLB added that it has recently introduced several initiatives, including a strategic alliance between HLB Private Banking and Lombard Odier, a refresh of its HLB Priority offering, and the rebranding of HLB Islamic under the Hayat @ HLB Islamic proposition.
The bank also introduced its Meet @ HLB branch concept aimed at expanding access to banking services.
