KUALA LUMPUR, Dec 3 (Bernama) -- CIMB Bank Berhad and CIMB Islamic Bank Berhad (“CIMB” or “the Bank”) today announced that it would be supporting children with cerebral palsy through the launch of CIMB Visa debit card. This is a first of its kind initiative in Malaysia, further strengthening CIMB’s commitment to making a positive social impact by helping children living with cerebral palsy to build confidence and independence; at the same time, continue to champion inclusion by raising awareness of this disability.

The beneficiary of this initiative, Gabungan Anak-Anak Palsi Serebrum (“GAPS”) is a non-governmental organisation (“NGO”) that empowers children with cerebral palsy through essential rehabilitation equipment and enrichment programmes. Through this campaign, CIMB will contribute RM2 to GAPS for every new Visa debit card issued, enabling GAPS to operate sustainably and remain focused on providing essential help to the children in need through recurring contributions. As part of the Bank’s broader sustainability commitments, this is also CIMB’s first debit card incorporating recycled PVC made from post-industrial material, reflecting its steps toward more sustainable material choices in product design.

The launch of the new CIMB Visa debit card was witnessed by YB Hannah Yeoh, Minister of Youth and Sports who is also the Member of Parliament for Segambut, alongside Effendy Shahul Hamid, Chief Executive Officer, Group Consumer and Digital Banking, CIMB Group, Rafidah Rafizah Ahmad, President and Founder of GAPS and Mohammad Ridzuan Mohamad Puzi, the national Paralympic athlete. At the event, CIMB also presented rehabilitation equipment to GAPS, reinforcing the Bank’s commitment towards uplifting the cerebral palsy community.

YB Hannah said, “In conjunction with International Day of Persons with Disabilities, I am pleased to see CIMB stepping forward with initiatives that extend beyond financial services to create a tangible social impact. These efforts demonstrate a powerful commitment to fostering inclusion and collaboration, encouraging the wider community to come together in support of underserved groups. Such initiatives not only raise awareness but also inspire collective action towards building a more compassionate and inclusive society.”

Effendy said, “We are committed to being a bank that not only drives financial growth but also champions social causes, reinforcing our commitment to advance our customers and society. CIMB is pleased to partner with GAPS to create a meaningful impact in the lives of children living with cerebral palsy, channeling contribution towards essential rehabilitation equipment and enrichment programmes. This partnership reflects our belief that positive change begins at the community level. By fostering a culture of inclusivity, we aim to enhance the lives of individuals and strengthen the overall social fabric of our communities.”

According to Rafidah, “Based on our data, more than 81% of families with cerebral palsy individuals are within the B40 group. Families caring for individuals with cerebral palsy often face challenges related to the high costs of special education, healthcare and wellbeing, as well as the need for specialised rehabilitation equipment. The support by CIMB will significantly ease these challenges by funding rehabilitation equipment and empowerment activities. With the right resources, these children can thrive in their areas of interest and lead fulfilling lives, achieving their real potential.”

In line with promoting social causes, the Bank also unveiled its first Community Hub at selected branches, blending a celebration of its 100 years of service to the people with a purpose-driven space for meaningful engagement. This unique concept serves as a collaborative facility where NGOs, customers and the larger community can come together and put forward impactful initiatives for CIMB to support, addressing the immediate needs of the community. CIMB plans to expand this model to selected branches across the country, inspiring more Malaysians to engage and be part of meaningful causes and actively support the communities in which the Bank operates.

“With the introduction of our Community Hub, we look forward to deepening our engagement with customers and collaborating with local community partners to identify and address pressing needs collectively, developing sustainable solutions that empower underserved groups. Together, we can drive significant impact and cultivate a more supportive and inclusive society that benefits everyone,” said Effendy.

The CIMB Visa debit card is now available at all branches nationwide. For more information, visit www.cimb.com.my/visadebit.

To be part of CIMB’s Community Hub, public can visit Plaza Damansara branch during the bank’s operating hours or submit their community initiative proposals at www.cimbfoundation.com/pwgrant.

About CIMB

CIMB is one of ASEAN’s leading banking groups and Malaysia’s second largest financial services provider, by assets. Listed on Bursa Malaysia via CIMB Group Holdings Berhad, it had a market capitalisation of approximately RM86.3 billion as at 30 September 2024. It offers consumer banking, commercial banking, wholesale banking, transaction banking, Islamic banking and asset management products and services. Headquartered in Kuala Lumpur, the Group is present in eight ASEAN nations (Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore, Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, Myanmar and Philippines).

Beyond ASEAN, the Group has market presence in China, Hong Kong and UK. CIMB has one of the most extensive retail branch networks in ASEAN with 592 branches and over 33,000 employees as at 30 September 2024. CIMB’s investment banking arm is one of the largest Asia Pacific-based investment banks, which together with its award-winning treasury & markets and corporate banking units comprise the Group’s leading wholesale banking franchise. CIMB is also the 92.5% shareholder of Bank CIMB Niaga in Indonesia, and 94.8% shareholder of CIMB Thai in Thailand.

SOURCE: CIMB Group

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:
Name: Anis Azharuddin / Kelvin Jude Muthu
Group Corporate Communications
CIMB Group Holdings Berhad
Email: anis.azharuddin@cimb.com / kelvinjude.muthu@cimb.com

--BERNAMA