Media Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
20 December 2024
Public Bank Scam Ranger Empowers Community Against Scamss
As part of the Bank’s Scam Prevention campaign, Public Bank’s PB Scam Ranger has actively raised awareness on scams throughout Malaysia since its launch in June 2024.
The PB Scam Ranger initiative features a mobile team of cybersecurity fraud experts travelling around Malaysia with the mission to continue to educate the public on the latest scam trends.
In collaboration with various bank branches, a van customised with the campaign's logo will visit Public Bank branches to conduct educational sessions, quizzes, interactive exhibits, and information exchanges with customers and the general public during the Bank's Product Promotional Events.
The PB Scam Ranger has also participated in significant events such as the Business Foresight Forum 2024 at Securities Commission Malaysia and the National Day celebration in Putrajaya.
Further extending its reach, PB Scam Ranger also took part in the Karnival Celik Kewangan organised by Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) at the East Coast Mall in Pahang where BNM's Deputy Governor, Encik Adnan Zaylani was present. The PB Scam Ranger continues to expand its outreach with numerous forthcoming events scheduled.
Meanwhile, Public Bank continues to maintain a proactive stance in monitoring the evolving fraud landscape and enhance its online security measures.
“We continue to improve best practices when it comes protecting our customers’ accounts. This include working closely with the authorities to address the evolving nature of scams and frauds. Meanwhile, customers are reminded to remain vigilant, and to keep themselves updated of the various modus operandi of scams and frauds,” said Public Bank’s Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Tan Sri Tay Ah Lek.
Public Bank continues to protect its customers’ from falling prey to fraudsters' mule accounts.
As of September 2024, approximately over 1.12 million Public Bank customers, or 3.42 million transactions totalling about RM1.65 billion were prevented from falling into fraudsters' mule accounts.
On top of that, since the introduction of the transaction cooling-off period, over 530 Public Bank customers' transactions valued at approximately RM 2.7 million have been prevented from being lost due to scam activities.
Public Bank employs a multi-channel approach to educate customers through the utilisation of digital touchpoints such as email campaigns, social media platforms, security alert light boxes, and online and mobile banking interfaces to counter potential threats.
In the event when customers notice any irregularities in their bank accounts or suspect fraudulent activity, customers can call Public Bank 24-Hours Case Management, Digital Support Hotline at 03-2177 3555.
In addition to that, they can also reach out to the National Scam Response Centre at 997 between 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily.
Most important message to all customers to prevent themselves from being scammed, they must observe the following:
- Do not disclose their ID and Password no matter how you are threatened.
- Do not call any suspicious contact number or click on any links on social media posting, emails or chats.
- Do not register for financial courses or investment schemes.
- Do not respond to loan advertisements through social media platforms with low interest rates.
BNM’s Deputy Governor, Encik Adnan Zaylani (5th from left) taking pictures with the PB Scam Ranger team after visiting the Bank's booth during the Karnival Celik Kewangan which was held at the East Coast Mall in Kuantan, Pahang
The PB Scam Ranger also took part in the National Day event this year which was held in Putrajaya.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
13 December 2024
Public Bank Commemorates the Visionary Legacy of Tan Sri Teh Hong Piow
Public Bank hosted a significant memorial event on 12 December 2024 at EQ Kuala Lumpur to honour the second memorial anniversary of the late Tan Sri Dato' Sri Dr. Teh Hong Piow, Founder and Chairman Emeritus of Public Bank. This occasion reflected the remarkable contributions of a visionary leader whose influence profoundly shaped Malaysia's banking landscape.
Tan Sri Teh Hong Piow, a pioneer in financial services, devoted his life to upholding principles of integrity, innovation and excellence. Having founded Public Bank in 1966, his leadership transformed it into a prominent financial institution renowned regionally for its exceptional service and robust portfolio of financial products.
During the event, Tan Sri Dato’ Sri Dr. Tay Ah Lek, Managing Director and CEO of Public Bank, delivered a heartfelt tribute, honouring his late mentor’s extraordinary contributions and vision.
“The late Tan Sri's impact on the Bank is unmatched. His extraordinary contributions and vision continue to shape us today. Tan Sri’s legacy is not in accolades or titles, but in the inspiration he ignited. His cornerstone was the culture he built; his most enduring gift which ensures that we carry forward his values in everything we do – the choices we make and the goals we pursue. Every great leader leaves a footprint in the annals of history. What differentiates and accentuates Tan Sri’s leadership is that it was not just about results; it was about people. His generosity was not just an action but a way of life, enriching us all in more ways than one. Now, it falls on us to safeguard and nurture that dream, to make it flourish and amplify its reach,” said Tan Sri Dato' Sri Dr. Tay Ah Lek.
Continuing the philanthropic legacy of Tan Sri Teh Hong Piow, Tan Sri Teh’s daughter Ms. Teh Li Shian Diona reaffirmed the family’s commitment in channelling significant support towards education and community development by contributing to several educational and welfare initiatives, including:
- Tan Sri Teh Hong Piow Legacy Scholarship:
Empowering 27 exceptional individuals with the gift of education through a generous allocation of RM1.7 million. This scholarship embodies a commitment to nurturing future leaders by providing financial assistance and recognition to deserving recipients, enabling them to pursue their academic aspirations and build a brighter tomorrow.
- Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman (UTAR) Education Foundation: RM50 million donation for the Students Fund.
The donation will be dedicated to an endowment fund supporting scholarships for deserving UTAR students needing financial assistance and to support the establishment of UTAR’s new campus. The contribution will also help the university's newly established campus in honour of the late Tan Sri Dato' Sri Dr. Teh Hong Piow. As part of this tribute, one of the faculty buildings will be named the ‘Faculty of Business and Finance’ in recognition of his legacy.
- Other Beneficiaries:
○ LightHouse of Hope Sarawak: RM200,000
* Public Bank supports LightHouse of Hope Sarawak’s efforts to empower indigenous youth by establishing seven STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) Hubs and three Regional STEM Hubs across 10 districts from 2025 to 2026. These hubs, serving as Education Empowerment Centres in schools, will equip students with essential skills for future success. This collaboration aims to expand opportunities and transform education in Sarawak.
○ Ihsan Johor: RM300,000
* In collaboration with Ihsan Johor, Public Bank has funded critical humanitarian initiatives in flood-prone areas of Johor, particularly around Kota Tinggi. These initiatives include building floating houses for B40 families across five villages that double as temporary shelters. Additionally, support is provided to three flood-affected schools to construct durable, multi-purpose structures. These efforts reflect Public Bank’s commitment to enhancing community resilience and providing sustainable solutions for vulnerable groups.
○ Penang State Education Department: RM500,000
* The fund provided by Public Bank is utilised to sponsor smart boards for 50 schools across Penang. This initiative is part of a collaborative effort with the State Education Department to enhance the learning experience for students especially in the B40 areas. The Smart Boards helped bridge the digital divide, enabling students and teachers to engage with interactive, modern teaching tools vital for improving educational outcomes.
○ Starfish Malaysia Foundation in Sabah: RM645,000
* Partnering with the Starfish Malaysia Foundation to empower Sabah's indigenous communities through transformative education. As a pioneering sponsor, Public Bank will be funding the development of a STEM Centre in Tuaran, besides establishing 15 other STEM hubs in schools and organising educational roadshows. The contribution also enhanced student hostels and learning facilities. In honour of the late Tan Sri Teh, the STEM Centre will carry his name, reflecting Public Bank’s commitment to advancing indigenous education and preserving his legacy.
Ms. Teh Li Shian Diona, daughter of the late Tan Sri, expressed profound gratitude during her speech, emphasising the enduring impact of her father’s legacy on the banking sector and beyond. She noted, “My father believed in the transformative power of kindness, determination and innovation to uplift lives, and he saw education as a gift to be shared, one that illuminates paths and creates possibilities. He often said, “Success is not measured by what you have, but by what you give back.” He believed that education was more than a path to personal success; it was a gift that illuminated possibilities and created futures where none seemed to exist. Let us honour his memory by upholding these values, ensuring his legacy continues to inspire generations to come.”
The memorial event not only celebrated the life of Tan Sri Teh Hong Piow but also reinforced the late Tan Sri’s family and Public Bank’s dedication to the values he championed, ensuring that his legacy of innovation, philanthropy and excellence continues to inspire future generations.
Tan Sri Dato’ Sri Dr. Tay Ah Lek and Ms. Teh Li Shian Diona with the beneficiaries in a moment of celebration
Ms. Teh Li Shian Diona captivates with her heartfelt speech
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
2 December 2024
Public Bank Offers Loan Repayment Relief For Customers Affected By Floods
Public Bank and Public Islamic Bank are offering repayment relief for loan and financing customers who have been affected by the recent floods in several states in Malaysia.
Public Bank’s Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Tan Sri Dato’ Sri Dr. Tay Ah Lek said, “Public Bank has repayment relief and other services in place to support customers who have been affected by the floods. Alleviating their financial burden and also helping them to restore their livelihood is our priority.”
The repayment relief includes:
- Deferment of monthly instalment for loan and financing of up to 6 months. The repayment relief is applicable to loan and financing facilities such as house financing, hire purchase and credit cards for individual customers, as well as SME loan and financing for affected businesses.
- Waiver of charges on the replacement of banking related documents, such as bank cards, passbooks and fixed deposits/Term Deposits-i receipts that have been destroyed or lost in the floods.
- Immediate collaboration has been made with Lonpac Insurance Bhd for fast processing of claims by the affected customers on losses covered by insurance policies underwritten by Lonpac.
Customers who have been affected by the floods are advised to contact us for the repayment relief.
In addition, Public Bank is also a participating financial institution for the Bank Negara Malaysia’s Disaster Relief Facility.
This facility is for the purpose of repairs and/or replacement of assets for business use, such as plants and machinery which have been damaged by floods, as well as for working capital purposes.
For SMEs and micro enterprises affected by floods located in districts identified by Agensi Pengurusan Bencana Negara as flood disaster areas, they are eligible to apply for this facility.
Contacts
Customers who require the repayment relief as well as more information may visit our Public Bank branches or contact the Bank’s general line at 03-21708000.
For insurance claims related matters, affected customers can contact Lonpac at 03-2262 8688.
Tan Sri Dato’ Sri Dr. Tay Ah Lek Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Public Bank
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
29 November 2024
Public Bank Group Achieved Pre-Tax Profit Growth of 13.0% to RM2.45 Billion for the Third Quarter of 2024
Highlights of Results
Profit growth for the third quarter 2024 (year-on-year growth):
- Pre-tax profit up 13.0% to RM2.45 billion
- Net profit up 12.4% to RM1.91 billion
Key performance for the nine months ended September 2024:
- Pre-tax profit up 6.0% to RM6.86 billion
- Net profit up 6.2% to RM5.35 billion
- Total loans and deposits posted annualised growth rates of 5.2% and 3.9% respectively •
- Net return on equity at 13.2%
- Cost-to-income ratio at 34.9%
- Gross impaired loans ratio at 0.6%
- Liquidity coverage ratio at 127.1%
- Common Equity Tier 1 capital ratio of 14.3% and total capital ratio of 17.2%
The Public Bank Group reported a 13.0% growth in pre-tax profit to RM2.45 billion during the third quarter of 2024 as compared to the previous corresponding quarter. Net profit attributable to shareholders grew by 12.4% to RM1.91 billion during the same period. For the first nine months of 2024, pre-tax profit and net profit grew by 6.0% and 6.2% respectively to RM6.86 billion and RM5.35 billion respectively.
Net interest and financing income showed further improvement, increasing by 4.4% to RM8.24 billion during the first nine months of 2024. Non-interest income grew by 9.8% to RM2.06 billion, as compared with the corresponding period last year.
Tan Sri Dato’ Sri Dr. Tay Ah Lek, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Public Bank commented, “The commendable achievements in the first nine months of 2024 were mainly due to the stable growth in loans and deposits as well as stabilising net interest margin. This is further contributed by higher non-interest income and lower credit cost. Along with its strong fundamentals and prudent management, the Group achieved a higher net return on equity of 13.2% and efficient cost-to-income ratio of 34.9%.”
Asset quality remained sound with the gross impaired loan ratio remaining stable at 0.6% and loan loss coverage sustaining at a prudent level of 153.6%.
Loans and Deposits Businesses
In the first nine months of 2024, the Public Bank Group’s total loan portfolio expanded by 5.2% on an annualised basis to RM414.5 billion. In terms of the domestic loan portfolio, it increased at an annualised growth rate of 6.2% to RM390.1 billion, exceeding the Malaysian industry’s annualised loan growth of 4.5%.
This was mainly driven by the Group’s core financing segments, including domestic residential properties financing, hire purchase financing and SME financing, which recorded annualised growth rates of 5.4%, 14.4%, and 3.5% respectively, with leading market shares of 20.2%, 31.7% and 17.3% respectively.
The Group’s steady loan approval trend has continued to pave the path for future loan growth. Total newly approved domestic loans for the first nine months of 2024 increased by 16.9%, as compared with the same period last year.
The Group’s total customer deposits grew by an annualised rate of 3.9% to RM425.1 billion, whereas domestic customer deposits saw an annualised increase of 4.7% to RM398.5 billion, mainly supported by sustained growth in core deposits.
The liquidity position of the Group remained healthy, as reflected in its gross loan to fund and equity ratio of 83.0% as of September 2024.
Asset Quality
As of September 2024, the Public Bank Group reported a stable gross impaired loans ratio of 0.6%. Domestic operations, which comprise over 94% of the Group’s total loans, achieved a notably lower domestic impaired loans ratio of 0.4%, well below the domestic banking industry’s average gross impaired loans ratio of 1.5%.
Notwithstanding the sound asset quality, the Group continued to adopt a prudent approach on loan provisioning, resulting in a loan loss coverage of 153.6%, which was significantly higher than the industry average of 90.8%. Including regulatory reserves, the Group’s loan loss coverage ratio stood at 202.2%.
Non-interest Income
For the first nine months of 2024, the Group’s non-interest income increased by 9.8% year-on-year to RM2.06 billion, due mainly to strong growth in unit trust and stockbroking income of 13.6% and 61.6% respectively.
Public Mutual, a wholly owned subsidiary of the Public Bank Group, posted a pre-tax profit of RM640.5 million during the nine months period ended September 2024, registering a growth of 8.0% as compared with the same period in 2023. This also constituted a 9.3% contribution to the Group’s overall pre-tax profit.
Public Mutual maintained its leading position in the private unit trust industry with the largest retail market share of 34.6%. Net asset value of funds under management stood at RM99.2 billion as at end-September 2024 with a total of 185 unit trust funds being managed.
Capital and Liquidity Position
The Public Bank Group sustained a robust capital position, with Common Equity Tier 1 capital ratio, Tier 1 capital ratio, and total capital ratio of 14.3%, 14.3%, and 17.2%, respectively.
The liquidity coverage ratio was maintained at a comfortable level of 127.1%, which is above the regulatory requirement.
Group’s Prospects
The global economy continues to be supported by moderate inflation and less restrictive monetary policy by major central banks. However, the outlook is subject to downside risks, mainly from the protracted geopolitical tensions and slower growth in major economies.
On the domestic front, the Malaysian economy is expected to expand further, backed by steady domestic demand and improved outlook on exports. However, global headwinds such as uncertainties arising from global geopolitical tensions and external trade are likely to continue to pose downside risks to the economy.
Tan Sri Tay said, “Tapping on the improved economic prospects, the Public Bank Group continues to see opportunities for business banking growth. The Group will continue to proactively embrace product innovation and enhance product features to meet the evolving demand of customers. Nonetheless, the Group will always remain prudent and continue to strengthen its fundamental resilience to ensure stability and sustainability in creating value for its stakeholders.”
Tan Sri Dato’ Sri Dr. Tay Ah Lek Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Public Bank
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
13 November 2024
UTAR Honours Tan Sri Teh Hong Piow with Newly Named Theatre, Celebrating His Philanthropy and Vision
Public Bank is deeply honoured with the naming of a lecture theatre in Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman (UTAR) after the late YBhg Tan Sri Dato' Sri Dr. Teh Hong Piow, Founder of Public Bank, a highly esteemed personality renowned for his exemplary leadership.
Ms.’Teh Li Shian Diona, the daughter of the late Tan Sri Dato’ Sri Dr. Teh Hong Piow, Tan Sri Dato’ Sri Dr. Tay Ah Lek, Managing Director and CEO of Public Bank, accompanied by Deputy CEO of Public Bank, Dato' Chang Kat Kiam alongside Tun Ling Liong Sik, UTAR Chancellor, Tan Sri Dato’ Dr. Sak Cheng Lum, UTAR Education Foundation Board of Trustees Chairman, Professor Dato’ Dr. Ewe Hong Tat, President of UTAR, and Professor Dr. Lau Hui Ping, CEO of Utar Hospital together with other distinguished guests, attended the official launching ceremony, which took place at UTAR Kampar Campus, Perak on 29 October.
This honorary name was bestowed upon the lecture theatre in recognition of Tan Sri Teh's remarkable philanthropic gestures towards the University, primarily through his substantial donations of RM20 million to UTAR in its early years of establishment enabled the University to realising its mission to provide quality and affordable education. This has helped made education accessible to many individuals who saw education as an opportunity to achieve their dreams, and a platform to hone their skills and knowledge to be able to make meaningful contributions to the society and nation.
This also reflected the recent donation of RM2 million towards the development of the UTAR Hospital, solidifying the hospital’s role as a teaching hospital, and strengthens its commitment to nurture practising medical students into medical specialists that will serve the nation. Tan Sri Teh's heartfelt generosity played a pivotal role in fostering the development of future talents within the University, paving the way for nurturing students in various fields of study.
The lecture theatre and wall of fame also reflects UTAR’s commitment in upholding the late Tan Sri Teh’s belief, and like a beacon of hope, to continue propelling the UTAR towards education excellence, and UTAR Hospital to stand as a pillar of health in its community.
Ms. Teh Li Shian Diona, the youngest daughter of Tan Sri Teh said, “By naming this lecture theatre in his honour, we commemorate his contributions and inspire future generations to strive for greatness in their pursuits. Tan Sri Teh maintained close ties with UTAR and consistently supported the University’s development. It was more than just a dedication; it is a continuation of his life’s work, dreams and values he held dear.”
She added, “He used to talk so passionately about how education can change society, and that is one of my favourite memories of him. In his opinion, education would enable people to create their own lives and benefit those around them. He often said, ‘Knowledge is the key that opens every door.’ He reminded me that the only reason he could go from modest beginnings to founding Public Bank was his opportunities to develop and learn.”
Tan Sri Dato’ Dr. Sak Cheng Lum UTAR Education Foundation Board of Trustees Chairman said, “Today, we gather to celebrate the legacy of the late Tan Sri Dato' Sri Dr Teh Hong Piow. His generosity and philanthropy have touched countless lives, and his belief in education has also transformed lives and helped create better futures for many others. We are thankful and honoured to be able to share and uphold his belief, through this lecture theatre and wall of fame, which will inspire students to strive for excellence, and encourage them to showcase their talents, skills, and intellectuals in contributing towards the society and nation.”
The lecture theatre, located at Block H in the Faculty of Business and Finance at the UTAR Kampar campus, will serve as a venue for academic discourse - inspiring the younger generation to dream big and pursue their ambitions with unwavering dedication and a space for the future leaders to facilitate intellectual learning and discussions.
From left: Dato’ Chang Kat Kiam, Tan Sri Dato’ Sri Dr Tay Ah Lek, Ms Teh Li Shian Diona, Tun Dr Ling Liong Sik, Tan Sri Dato’ Dr. Sak Cheng Lum, Ir. Prof Dato’ Dr. Ewe Hong Tat, and Prof Lau Hui Ping unveiling the Wall of Fame poster of the late Tan Sri Dato' Sri Dr. Teh Hong Piow’s legacy
From left: Dato’ Chang Kat Kiam, Tan Sri Dato’ Sri Dr Tay Ah Lek, Ms Teh Li Shian Diona, Tun Dr Ling Liong Sik, Tan Sri Dato’ Dr. Sak Cheng Lum, Ir. Prof Dato’ Dr. Ewe Hong Tat, and Prof Lau Hui Ping unveiling the Wall of Fame poster of the late Tan Sri Dato' Sri Dr. Teh Hong Piow’s legacy
From left: Dato’ Chang Kat Kiam, Tan Sri Dato’ Sri Dr Tay Ah Lek, Ms. Teh Li Shian Diona, Tun Dr Ling Liong Sik (seated) Toh Puan Ena Ling (behind Tun Ling), Tan Sri Dato’ Dr. Sak Cheng Lum, Ir. Prof Dato’ Dr Ewe Hong Tat, and Prof Lau Hui Ping launching the Tan Sri Dato' Sri Dr. Teh Hong Piow Lecture Theatre
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