ALLIANCE BANK SPREADS WINGS TO SIBU

Sibu, 8 March 2007 – Alliance Bank has spread its wings to Sibu with a new branch at Jalan Bako. The new branch is part of the Alliance Banking Group's continued strategy to strengthen its branch footprint via new branch openings, relocation and expansion.

Said Alliance Banking Group Chief Executive Officer Bridget Lai: "Sibu is one of the fastest growing and most important commercial hubs in Sarawak. It is widely regarded as the financial capital of the state, the main port and commercial centre for the Rejang Basin. Given its thriving and enterprising business community and Alliance Bank's experience and strength in commercial banking, I am confident that, we will bring value-added propositions to the SMEs here."

The Sibu branch sports a bold and modern external façade while its interior ambience takes on a more personal approach with a concierge counter and cosy customer lounge where customers can savour a cup of coffee while waiting to perform their banking transactions.

Customers will have access to a full range of integrated and comprehensive financial solutions via the banking facilities which includes Privilege Banking, a 24-hour e-Banking lobby, a consumer sales and services lounge, a dedicated Business Centre and even an Alliance Share Trading Centre to meet both their personal and business needs.

Lai elaborated: "Branches are the first point of contact between a bank and its customers. I believe how our branches look reflect the value we place on our customers. We seek to offer our customers a new banking experience by setting new standards in banking and emphasising our commitment to the local community."

Customers can look forward to being served by a team of knowledgeable and dedicated business managers who are keen on fostering long-term relationships by learning about, and understanding, customers' specific needs and recommending financial solutions that are suited to each customer's unique operation conditions.

"Alliance Bank is committed to building a long-term synergistic relationship with our SME clientele. We will continue to channel our efforts in meeting the specific financial needs of our SME clientele through innovative financing facilities and advisory services as well as aid them in incubating and growing their businesses," Lai affirmed.

The Sibu branch is headed by sales manager, Teng Hie Diik. He brings with him extensive years of banking experience and a deep understanding of the local community.

Alliance Banking Group

Alliance Banking Group is a dynamic, integrated financial services group offering end-to-end financing solutions through it consumer banking, commercial banking, wholesale banking, Islamic banking, investment banking and stock broking businesses as well as unit trust and asset management, providing products and services that are suited for every customer at every stage of their life.

The Group has had five decades of proud history in contributing to the financial community in Malaysia with its innovative and entrepreneurial business spirit. It provides easy access throughout the country serving its broad base of customers via multi-pronged delivery channels including 79 retail branches, 9 Privilege Banking Centres, 19 Hire Purchase hubs, 22 Business Centres, 12 investment bank branches, 6 direct marketing offices and 3 unit trust agent offices located nationwide in a mix of rural and urban areas.

Through strategic partnerships, the Alliance Banking Group is also able to offer customers to regional and global platforms.

The Group's aspiration is to be Malaysia's premier integrated financial services group delivering the best customer experience and creating long term shareholder value. Strategic alliances, enhanced group synergy, excellent technology and human capital will be the key to creating long term value for all stakeholders.

Alliance Bank is wholly-owned subsidiary of Malaysian Plantations Berhad