(from left) Hong Leong Bank regional wealth management managing director Hor Kwok Wai, personal financial services managing director Andrew Jong, and business and corporate banking managing director Yow Kuan Tuck capturing the auspicious moment as they launch the newly renovated Hong Leong Bank Light Street branch together with guests and staff of the bank. – Photos by CHAN BOON KAI/ The Star
GEORGE TOWN: The Hong Leong Bank Light Street branch is now ready to serve Penangites.
This comes after an extensive renovation to further bring and breathe life into the heritage building that was built on Light Street since the 1860’s.
The building, painted in light blue and white, stands in the midst of old and new charm as modern features and facilities are blended with its traditional structure.
Inside, the marbled interior offers a sense of elegance yet comfort and warmth when customers enter the building.
More than just a transaction
Having been established close to 120 years, Hong Leong Bank has shown its unwavering commitment to its valued customers and the communities it serves in.
This includes adding new and improved facilities to ensure a memorable experience for the customers when they visit the branch.
The Light Street branch now boasts a Priority and Private banking entrance and lounge, ample parking, an electric vehicle (EV) charging station, a cafe, exhibition hall and event space.
Hong Leong Bank personal financial services managing director Andrew Jong in his speech shared that while they are a digital-first bank with a robust digital bank platform HLB Connect, the essence of banking goes beyond transactions.
"It is about trust, relationships, and personalised service.
"In many surveys, customers have consistently placed high importance on having actual faces and physical branches as a crucial aspect of banking.
"This human connection builds trust, fosters loyalty and ensures that our customers feel truly supported in their financial journey," he said this during the launch of the newly renovated Hong Leong Bank Light Street branch today.
Jong said the branch network is important to provide complete and holistic financial services for customers and the communities.
"Not only can we serve the transactional needs of our customers with HLB Connect, but also fulfil the emotional engagement of in-person service tailored to their needs.
"We provide support and advisory with a human touch and care in-branch, in-community.
"As part of our strategy, we are transforming our branches to make sure we design the space to suit the preferences and needs of local customers and communities.
"This branch in particular, our first iconic branch, is designed to be a unique reflection of the Penang community.
"It features inviting spaces for everyone to enjoy, including meeting rooms, an exhibition area, spaces for talks, and even a cafe (Kota Bistro).
"We envision this as a place for meaningful conversations, financial guidance and even just a relaxing cup of coffee," he said.
The exterior of the newly launched Hong Leong Bank Light Street branch in George Town, Penang.
Hong Leong Bank business and corporate banking managing director Yow Kuan Tuck said the bank recognises the value of human connection and the power of building genuine relationships with their clients.
"This is especially true in business and corporate banking, where personalised support and tailored solutions are paramount.
"While our digital platform, HLB Connect, offers unparalleled convenience, our relationship managers provide the expert guidance and insights that businesses need to thrive.
"We actively foster connections and knowledge sharing through dedicated programmes and networking initiatives.
"We bring together industry experts, leaders and captains to provide our clients with valuable knowledge and insight," he said.
Yow said the branch here is more than just a banking facility.
"It is a dynamic hub for meaningful connections.
"We have created inviting spaces where our clients can meet, network, and collaborate.
"From meeting rooms to exhibition spaces, and even dedicated areas for business talks, this branch is designed to foster growth and innovation," he said.
The interior of the newly renovated branch offers the bank’s customers a calming environment.
Designing solutions for every need
The bank's regional wealth management managing director Hor Kwok Wai said the Priority Banking Lounge at this branch shows their devotion towards wealth management particularly in enhancing their Priority and Private Banking segments.
"As a bank, we are committed to designing solutions that cater to your needs.
"With a physical presence in your community, we are able to provide personal, tailor-made wealth advisory and help curate a wealth management plan that suits your specific requirements and situations.
"This encompasses growing your investment portfolio, securing financing for your business and even ensuring your wealth is passed down to future generations," he said.
Hor added that with a physical presence here in Penang, their customers have access to their team of financial advisors and investment specialists who can help design a wealth management plan that is suited to one's needs.
"We can offer personal guidance and be a partner in your wealth journey, equipping you with the tools you need to design an effective wealth plan.
"For customers who are business owners, our iconic branch can serve as a synergetic hub for all your business banking, financing, and wealth distribution needs.
"With our financial solutions and expertise, we can be an effective partner in your business, equipping you with tools and advisory to help your business grow and succeed.
"We see this branch being a regional hub for our Priority and Private banking services, especially catered to high net-worth customers who need enhanced solutions and wealth management plans.
"We envision our bank, especially this Light Street branch, as a one-stop destination for all your wealth management needs," he said.
