In an era where banking is defined by the speed of decisioning and the depth of digital integration, CIMB Bank Berhad has set a new benchmark for the Malaysian financial sector. The bank’s dual win at The Asian Banker Awards reflects a multi-year strategy to pivot from traditional branch-based models to high-automation, customer-centric ecosystems.
The Best Retail Bank: Beyond the Branch
The Asian Banker credited CIMB’s “Best Retail Bank” win to its aggressive push into embedded finance and digital origination. By automating lending approvals and expanding customer acquisition beyond physical branches, CIMB has managed to enhance customer experience without compromising on risk management—a balance that led to record financial performance for its consumer banking division.
Haniz Nazlan, CEO of Group Consumer Banking, highlighted that the bank’s investment in Generative AI and next-gen tech is designed to “simplify, better, and fast-track” the banking journey. This AI-driven efficiency is not just about cost-cutting; it’s about creating an “omni-channel journey” where the customer remains the central focus.
The Best SME Bank: Scaling the Value Chain
For the SME sector—the backbone of the Malaysian economy—CIMB’s recognition as “Best SME Bank” stems from its integrated digital toolkit.
A critical factor in this success was the 2025 launch of OCTO BIZ, a solution that offers seamless ASEAN connectivity, allowing local SMEs to trade across borders with ease. Lawrence Loh, Co-CEO of Group Commercial and Transaction Banking, noted that tools like SME Instant Apply and SME FlexiCash/-i are specifically adapted to daily cashflow needs, helping businesses move up the regional value chain.
ESG and Inclusion: The BizReady Ecosystem
CIMB’s leadership is also reflected in its purpose-driven platforms:
- CIMB GreenBizReady: Helping SMEs transition to sustainable practices.
- Halal Biz Ready: Providing a universal offering for businesses aiming for aspirations in the global Halal economy.
- CIMB BizReady: A comprehensive toolkit for general business scaling.
Gurdip Singh Sidhu, CEO of CIMB Malaysia, emphasized that these accolades are shared with the customers. “Our efforts to advance customers and society is supported by the relentless pursuit of innovation and commitment to a future-forward digital framework,” he stated.
Award Highlights: CIMB’s Winning Formula
| Award Category | Key Drivers | Impact |
| Best Retail Bank | Digital Origination & Embedded Finance | High-speed lending approvals & branchless acquisition. |
| Best SME Bank | OCTO BIZ & ASEAN Connectivity | Empowering SMEs to compete on a regional stage. |
| Innovation Lead | AI-Integrated Business Contact Centers | Instant intelligence for better customer service. |
| Sustainability | GreenBizReady & Halal Biz Ready | Reaffirming commitment to the 13MP and ESG goals. |