ALLIANCE - ACCCIM TIE UP TO SHARPEN SMEs FOR GLOBALISATION

Kuala Lumpur, 3 July 2006 - Alliance Bank and The Associated Chinese Chambers of Commerce & Industry of Malaysia (ACCCIM) have joined hands to organise a forum to boost the competitiveness of small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in a globalised environment.

Called, Transforming SMEs In A Globalised Era, the Forum will bring together prominent business leaders, industry players and entrepreneurs in the SME sector to sharpen their competitive edge to face local and international challenges.

SMEs is a core and traditionally strong customer segment for Alliance Bank. The Bank is committed to the growth of SMEs. As a key customer sector, SMEs make up approximately 30% of the Bank's total loan portfolio and it is our intention to expand our market share even more. This Forum is an excellent opportunity for the Bank to underscore our continued commitment to this sector and to strengthen our partnership with the SME segment.

As a true and effective partner to SMEs, Alliance Bank has invested, and will continue to invest, substantial time, energy and resources to understand the SME business and challenges and use this understanding to develop customised solutions to meet their varied needs.