Partnership set to boost tourism-led economy


(From third left) Ravintharan, Syed Ahmad Taufik, Mohd Amirul Rizal, Martin, Mohd Akbal, Baizuri and Zuraini at the launch. — LOW BOON TAT/The Star

IN conjunction with Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026), Maybank has partnered with Tourism Malaysia to launch Regional Cards Showcase, a strategic collaboration designed to accelerate tourism-led economic growth.

Maybank cardmembers can now access over 700 exclusive deals throughout the year, spanning key sectors including transportation, accommodation, dining, tourist attractions and shopping.

Maybank community financial services group chief executive officer Syed Ahmad Taufik Albar said the bank played an important role in translating tourists’ arrivals into economic value that benefitted its merchant partners, many of whom were small and medium-sized enterprises (SME).

“In support of VM2026, we are engaging our regional cards base through curated privileges across key tourism touch points, from shopping to dining as well as the many lifestyle attractions in the country.

“This is where Maybank’s regional strength makes a meaningful difference.

“It is currently one of the largest card issuers in the Asean region, spanning key markets including Singapore, Indonesia, Philippines, Cambodia, Brunei and Malaysia.

“To make discovery easier, we have also launched a dedicated VM2026 website for card members to explore exclusive offers available.

“These privileges can turn your Maybank cards, whether issued in Malaysia or regionally, into a ticket to experience the best Malaysia has to offer,” he said during the launch.

He also said Maybank was dedicated

to ensuring local SMEs were well-equipped to seize the opportunities presented by VM2026.

“Our support for SMEs goes beyond banking.

“We also leverage them by enabling the acceptance of multiple card schemes, establishing cross-border QR payments as well as providing digital tools and advisory services for them.

“We see ourselves as part of a broader ecosystem that connects travellers, businesses and communities.

Mohd Amirul Rizal (left) and Syed Ahmad Taufik swiping the mock Maybank credit cards during the launch.
Mohd Amirul Rizal (left) and Syed Ahmad Taufik swiping the mock Maybank credit cards during the launch.

“We are proud to stand alongside Tourism Malaysia and other partners to deliver an exceptional experience for both visitors and businesses,” he added.

Also present was Tourism Malaysia director-general Mohd Amirul Rizal Abdul Rahim, who commended Maybank for proactively mobilising its card platforms and extensive merchant networks to support VM2026.

“With a strong presence in the Asean region, Maybank is well-positioned to facilitate inbound visitor spending in Malaysia.

“Initiatives such as curated privileges and enhanced payment acceptance have demonstrated how Maybank, as a financial institution, can contribute meaningfully to the tourism sector.

“Strategic partnerships between the public and private sectors are essential to help expand the Malaysian tourism ecosystem.

“Collaborations such as this one enable tourism messages to be delivered through meaningful and accessible channels that resonate with both local communities and international visitors,” he said.

Mohd Amirul Rizal also said Tourism Malaysia was committed to sustain the positive momentum generated last year, with 42.2mil tourists entering Malaysia.

“The overarching goal of VM2026 is to generate more inclusive economic opportunities across various sectors such as hospitality, transportation and accommodation.

“The campaign highlights the exceptional diversity of Malaysian tourism.”

As part of the launching gimmick, both Syed Ahmad Taufik and Mohd Amirul Rizal “swiped” a mock Maybank credit card at the event.

Also present were Maybank senior executive vice-president and head of cards (group community financial services) B. Ravintharan, Star Media Group managing editor Brian Martin, Tourism Malaysia advertising and digital senior director Mohd Akbal Setia, its international promotion (Asean) division director Baizuri Baharum and package development division director Zuraini Abdul Ghani.

To enjoy the deals, card members must make payments with a Maybank American Express, Mastercard, Visa or JCB Card issued by Maybank Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, Phillipines, Cambodia or Brunei, subject to the respective merchant’s discretion.

More information about the deals can be found at maybank.my/visitmalaysia

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