PB Golden Fortune to Usher into The Year of Rabbit with Auspicious Gifts

In conjunction with Chinese New Year 2023, Public Bank is pleased to launch the ‘PB Golden Fortune 2023 Campaign’ that opened to all new and existing individual Public Bank customers aged 18 years old and above. The Campaign offer period was from 1 December 2022 to 28 February 2023.

Two exquisite limited edition auspicious gifts namely ‘24K Gold-Plated Triple Abundances of Wealth’ and ‘24K Gold-Foiled Double Blessing of Happiness’ were offered under the Campaign, each represents an excellent piece of gold craft that symbolises prosperity and success. Both gifts were only available on first-come, first-served basis, while stock lasts.

Customers can participate in the Campaign with the purchase of Unit Trust Funds (UT), PB Smart Link (PBSL), PB Smart Elite (PBSE) or PB ExcelLink-i (PBE-i) bundled with deposit in selected Current/Savings Accounts in order to get the exclusive gift(s).

PB Golden Fortune 2023 Campaign was designed for customers that look for diversified investment portfolio in achieving their financial goals. Customers can choose from a vast selection of UT that catered for various investment strategies and risk tolerance levels in accordance to their risk appetites in order to achieve their financial goals.

Customers can also invest in Single Premium Investment-Linked Insurance Plan that provides insurance coverage upon death or Total and Permanent Disability (TPD) and investment returns. There is also Shariah-Compliant Single Contribution Investment-Linked Takaful Plan that offered a combination of Takaful protection i.e. death and TPD coverage and investment in one plan.

‘Driven to Win’ With Public Bank’s Mastercard Credit Card

The ‘Driven to Win’ campaign was launched by Public Bank (PB) and Mastercard that gives away exciting prizes such as a BMW 330e M-Sport, Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 4, Samsung 65” UHD TV, Dyson V8 Slim Fluffy+ Vacuum and RM88 Cash Back to 321 lucky PB Mastercard Credit Cardholders.

Cardholders only need to spend using their Public Bank or Public Islamic Bank Mastercard Credit Card to qualify for the campaign. Upsized entries were given to new cards and for usage on selected categories.

On top of that, New-to-Bank Public Bank or Public Islamic Bank Mastercard credit cards approved from 25 November 2022 until 31 March 2023 were eligible for a one-time RM300 Cash Back with a minimum of only RM500 accumulative retail spend within 60 days from the card approval date.

The second campaign, ‘Travel Further and More Campaign with PB Mastercard Credit Card’ was launched to support the post-pandemic tourism boom. Great prizes ranging from travel vouchers by Holiday Tours, AirAsia points, 2-in-1 trolley bag sets and RM128 Cash Back were up for grabs until 28 February 2023.

Cardholders only need to make a minimum of RM2,000 accumulative travel-related spending in a month to stand a chance to win prizes. Not only that, cardholders are also able to convert RM3,000 of spending in a single-receipt into 0% instalment for 10 months.

Ms. Beena Pothen, Country Manager, Malaysia and Brunei of Mastercard said “Mastercard is excited to collaborate with Public Bank on these two new campaigns as part of the organisation’s continued commitment to bring seamless and fulfilling experiences to consumers in Malaysia. While one campaign rewards cardholders for any spend and encourages the use of cashless payments, the other campaign awards them in the categories that they are highly likely to be spending in during this time of the year. With the reopening of borders and pent-up travel demand post-COVID, consumers are seeking priceless travel experiences. This campaign therefore ties in closely with their spending behaviour, enabling cardholders to be rewarded while they spend on their travel and indulge in memorable moments”.

From left to right: Mr. Devesh Kuwadekar, Vice President, Business Development, Mastercard; Mr. Tee Chui Chee, General Manager, PB Card Services & Support;

Ms. Beena Pothen, Country Manager, Malaysia and Brunei, Mastercard; and Ms. Felina Saw, Senior Manager, PB Card Services & Support

Cash Prizes Campaign Rewards Customers and Merchants of Public Bank’s QR Cross Border Payment Linking Thailand and Indonesia

Public Bank, in collaboration with Payments Network Malaysia Sdn Bhd (PayNet) launched the DuitNow QR Cross Border Payment Campaign to promote usage of Public Bank’s QR Cross Border Payment, applicable for transactions between Malaysia and Thailand (for both Outbound and Inbound Categories) and between Malaysia and Indonesia (For Inbound Category).

For the outbound category, more than 100 cash prizes await customers with the highest volume of transactions during the period from 14 November 2022 to 14 February 2023 with the first prize being RM3,000, while for the inbound category, more than 50 cash prizes await merchants with the highest volume of transactions during the period from 5 December 2022 to 5 March 2023, with the first prize being RM7,000.

For Public Bank customers travelling to Thailand, they will be enrolled in the campaign for the outbound payment category when they perform QR payments by scanning a PromptPay QR in Thailand using their PBe mobile banking app. Meanwhile, Malaysia’s local SMEs merchants will be enrolled in the campaign for the inbound payment category when they accept QR payment from Thai and Indonesian travellers.

Public Bank’s Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Tan Sri Dato’ Sri Dr. Tay Ah Lek said the campaign will further boost the usage amongst travellers from Malaysia, Thailand and Indonesia who appreciate cashless payment connectivity.

“We are pleased to announce this collaboration with our long-time partner, PayNet. We believe that these campaigns will bring even better value to our customers. The campaign signifies the Bank’s continuous commitment to enriching its value propositions with consumer-centric offerings, and we look forward to more collaborations with PayNet to offer further payment systems innovation and convenience for our customers,” Tan Sri Tay said.

The participation of the campaign for the outbound payment category required customers to subscribe as PB engage users to scan on participating PromptPay QR in Thailand with a minimum spend of RM30. Meanwhile, for the inbound category, merchants in Malaysia are required to subscribe as PBe QR merchants and accumulate a minimum transactional value of RM250 from Thai and Indonesian customers.

As the first Bank in Malaysia to collaborate with PayNet to implement DuitNow QR cross-border payment since June last year, it again became the first Bank to extend its services to allow Public Bank merchants to accept payment from overseas payers while allowing PBe mobile banking users to perform QR payments to merchants overseas.

The campaign was opened to all Malaysian or Malaysian residents who have Public Bank accounts.

DuitNow Technical Briefing

Enterprise Banking Team of Wealth Management & Transaction Banking (WMTB) hosted two sessions of technical briefing for both new and existing merchants of the Bank on Paynet’s DuitNow Online Banking/Wallets (DOBW), a newly-launched secured online payment platform.

The sessions were conducted in Menara Public Bank on 14 February and 2 March 2023 respectively with a total number of 69 merchants’ participation.

DOBW is operated and regulated by PayNet (Payments Network Malaysia Sdn. Bhd). Public Bank is the first pilot Bank in Malaysia to launch the service. The DOBW allows real-time debiting via payer’s Online/Mobile Banking account or e-wallets and direct crediting into Merchant’s account maintained by the participating Banks.

The briefing covered a range of topics related to the new platform including its improved features, user-friendly interface, migration process from FPX and enhanced security measures. Attendees were given a demonstration of the platform's functionality which comprise the registration, integration and transactional processes. It is mandatory for existing FPX merchants to migrate to the DOBW platform by end of 2023.

The technical briefing provided valuable insights to the merchants. It was a great success, with attendees expressing their enthusiasm for the improved functionality and user-friendly interface of the new system. The upgraded platform offers a seamless and secure way for merchants to manage their accounts, conduct transactions and improve their overall business efficiency. At Public Bank, we are committed to promote online payment as part of our sustainable banking practices. 

Repayment Relief for Customers

Public Bank and Public Islamic Bank offered repayment relief for loan and financing customers who have been affected by floods at end of 2022 in several states in Malaysia.

The deferment of monthly instalment for loan and financing facilitates of up to 6 months was on a request basis and is applicable house financing, hire purchase and credit cards for individual customers, as well as SME loan and financing for affected local businesses.

The relief also includes waiver of charges on the replacement of banking related documents, losses covered by insurance policies underwritten by Lonpac, SMEs and micro enterprises that were eligible for Bank Negara Malaysia’s Disaster Relief Facility of which Public Bank is a participating financial institution.

Extended QR Payment with Singapore

Customers of Public Bank can now perform instant QR payments using its PB engage mobile application for retail transactions with Singapore merchants while PBe QR merchants are also able to receive QR payments from individuals from Singapore with the extension of the DuitNow QR Cross Border Payment Services.

Public Bank’s Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Tan Sri Dato’ Sri Dr. Tay Ah Lek said the payment linkage would further put the G20’s collective aspiration via the ‘G20 Roadmap for Enhancing Cross-border Payments’. The G20 Countries together represent around 90% of global GDP, 80% of global trade, and two thirds of the world's population.

Public Bank is one of the pioneer Banks in Malaysia to enable DuitNow QR payment to these three countries, Thailand, Indonesia and now Singapore within the ASEAN region, facilitated by Payments Network Malaysia Sdn. Bhd. (PayNet).

PBHK is Now on Socials!

Public Bank (Hong Kong) Limited (PBHK) is now on Facebook and Instagram account with page name ‘Public Bank Hong Kong大眾銀行香港’ and account name ‘publicbankhk’ respectively. Stay tune on the socials for PBHK’s updates!

Facebook

Instagram

PBHK Digi - A Leap Forward in Digital Transformation

Align with its 3-Year Fintech 2025 Plan, Public Bank (Hong Kong) Limited (PBHK) launched its new mobile banking application, ‘PBHK Digi’ on 27 March 2023.

PBHK Digi is an upgraded version of the current PBHK Pay and is available for individuals who have access to the Bank’s Net Banking service.

PBHK Digi provides a secured and user-friendly banking experience to meet their banking needs in an enhanced new way.

Senior Management with Mobile Task Force

Investment Strategies for Long-Term Success

Public Mutual hosted the Investors' Day 2023 themed ‘Investment Strategies for Long-Term Success’ from 22 to 24 July 2023. Over the three-day webinar, Public Mutual’s fund managers and Certified Financial Planners delved into pertinent economic matters and market dynamics. They provided valuable guidance on optimising investment portfolios and financial management for sustainable long-term success. The event garnered enthusiastic participation, with over 1,400 attendees benefiting from the discussions.

Respective speakers from different days during Investors’ Day

Money Matters for Women

On 27 May 2023, over 150 participants eagerly attended the financial literacy webinar titled ‘Money Matters for Women’. The session provided valuable insights into the significance of financial independence, offering a unique perspective from women. The webinar was organised as part of Public Mutual's ‘MoneyKu’ initiative, aim to elevate financial literacy levels among Malaysians.

Institutional Sales and Financial Planning Department’s Certified Financial Planner Ms. Winnie Chee (left) and Master of Ceremonies Mr. Philip Teh (right) key persons for webinar ‘Money Matters for Women’

Discover the PB Sustainable Growth Fund (PBSTGRF) – Your Ticket to Sustainable Investments!

On 5 September 2023, Public Bank commenced its distribution and sale of a new unit trust funds namely PB Sustainable Growth Fund (PBSTGRF) under the PB Series of Unit Trust Funds which is managed by Public Mutual Berhad (PMB).

PBSTGRF aims to capitalise on the long-term growth prospects of companies primarily in the domestic market that incorporate sustainability and Environmental, Social & Governance (ESG) considerations in their business practices.

The Fund will invest 75% to 98% of its Net Asset Value (NAV) in shares or securities equivalent to shares primarily in the domestic market, with the balance invested in money market instruments and deposits. Up to 30% of PBSTGRF’s NAV may also be invested in the foreign markets to diversify the Fund’s portfolio and tap into the broader array of sustainable investment opportunities globally. The minimum initial investment amount is RM1,000 while the minimum additional investment amount is only RM100.

PB SecureSign Is Now Replaced for Authentication

Public Bank’s Internet (PBe) and Mobile Banking (PB engage MY) application users enjoy further security enhancement with the PB SecureSign after the discontinuation of the SMS PAC (PBe Authentication Code) since 20 April 2023 for all its transactions, including FPX transactions.

PB SecureSign is proven effective in countering one of the fraud tactics known as APK fraud. One of the advantage of using PB SecureSign to approve transaction is its ability to display transaction details such as the beneficiary name and account number in full.

After the activation, customers are then required to enable Push Notifications under Settings on their devices in order to approve transactions with PB SecureSign. Users are encouraged to remain vigilant in the battle against scams, and it is vital to verify every transaction details displayed before they decide to approve or reject them.

Besides the discontinuation of SMS PAC and the implementation of PB SecureSign, Pubic Bank has introduced other counter measures recently including self-deactivation of Internet Banking access feature, call verification for PB SecureSign activation, email alert for login from a new device and increase of transfer limit, providing added security for Public Bank’s customers.

Moving forward, Public Bank will be implementing a cooling off period for PB SecureSign activation and suspicious transactions by mid-2023.

Bursa Marketplace Fair 2023

Public Investment Bank (PIVB) played a key role as a sponsor in the Bursa Marketplace Fair 2023 at the Persada Johor International Convention Centre in Johor Bahru on Saturday, 5 August 2023 with the aim to promote financial literacy.

The event, attended by our Deputy Finance Minister, YB Datuk Seri Ahmad Bin Maslan, marked as the first for Malaysia’s Southern Region, saw PIVB unite with capital market authorities to heighten investment awareness. Their collaboration underlines a shared commitment to enhance knowledge of both conventional and Shariah-compliant investment opportunities among the local community.

Prominent figures in the finance sector, including Datuk Muhamad Umar Swift, CEO of Bursa Malaysia (left) and Deputy Finance Minister, Datuk Seri Ahmad Bin Maslan (centre) alongside Tan Sri Abdul Wahid Bin Omar, Chairman of Bursa Malaysia (right) convene at PIVB’s exhibition booth witnessing economic innovation in action

2nd ACE Market IPO for PIVB in 2023

Public Investment Bank (PIVB) achieved a notable success as the Principal Adviser, Sponsor, Sole Underwriter and Sole Placement Agent with the initial public offering (IPO) of Mercury Securities Group Berhad (MSGB), listing it on the ACE Market of Bursa Malaysia.

Launched on 19 September 2023, the IPO garnered RM57.15 million, boosting MSGB’s market cap to RM223.25 million. The shares soared, closing 20% higher than the IPO price. Enthusiastic investors submitted 12,926 applications for the available shares, leading to an overall oversubscription rate of 45.45 times.

Mr. Lee Yo-Hunn (Right) of PIVB and Mr. Chew Sing Guan (Left), the Mercury Securities Managing Director during its listing

Ms. Alyn Lim Geok Lian (Right), Deputy CEO of PIVB and Mr. Chew Sing Guan (Left) during its prospectus launch at the Le Méridien Kuala Lumpur Hotel on 28 August 2023

Electrifying Journey with Tesla Model 3 via PB Visa Signature Credit Card

Public Bank introduces its eco-conscious PB Visa Signature Credit Card, offering customers the chance to win a Tesla Model 3 and five electric scooters to promote sustainable mobility. This card features an ESG logo and is made from plant-based materials, which helps to reduce card production carbon footprint by 10 grammes.

Cardholders will be rewarded with 10x Green Points on ESG-related purchases and it is redeemable for items, vouchers, or air miles from PB Preferred Redemption Catalogue. Additional perks include triple points for overseas spending, lounge access, and travel insurance in the meantime existing benefits include 3% Cash Back on online, grocery, and dining transactions promotion that will be valid until 30 April 2024.

PB Golden Fortune Campaign is Back!

Public Bank launched the annual ‘PB Golden Fortune Campaign’ from 1 November to 29 February 2024, which is open to all new and existing individual Public Bank customers. The Campaign featured limited edition of Liuli Bowls Sets. Liuli is a type of crystal art from ancient China, marked with intricate designs and translucency.

Customers can participate by purchasing Unit Trust Funds or Single Premium Insurance/ Single Contribution Takaful products and at the same time place deposit in selected Current/ Savings Accounts in order to get the exclusive gifts while supplies last. The Campaign caters to customers who are seeking for diverse investment portfolios, offering various UT options and insurance plans.

‘Scan & Pay with PB QR’ Campaign for PPR Tenants

Public Bank organised a ‘Scan & Pay with PB QR’ campaign for Projek Perumahan Rakyat (PPR) tenants that are managed by Perumahan Dan Hartanah Selangor Sdn. Bhd. The campaign was held from 15 August to 15 October 2023, and opened to tenants in PPR Kg. Baru Hicom and PPR Kota Damansara.

Tenants paying rent via PB QR or DuitNow QR had a chance to win RM50 cashback and at the end of the campaign, it had successfully achieved 253% increase in transactions via QR payments, with 84 winners selected for cashback rewards.

From left Public Bank’s team, En. Ahmad Haniff, Pn. Nor Azurah and En. Farza Omar (most right) with PPR Kota Damansara Property Manager En. Azwan Paiman (second from right)