Maybank

Maybank and American Express today announced the launch of the American Express Platinum Credit Card. Malaysia is the latest market to become a part of the global footprint for the American Express Platinum Credit Card, the flagship credit card of American Express. This is also the first time that American Express 'Centurion' line of credit cards is being introduced in Malaysia. Maybank is the sole issuer of American Express Centurion Cards and merchant acquiring businesses in Malaysia.

Maybank Acting CEO, Dato' Aminuddin Md Desa and Kula Kulendran, Head of Global Network Services (Japan, Asia-Pacific and Australia) of American Express co-launched the card at a ceremony held at Shangri-La Kuala Lumpur, a leading hotel which is also a Platinum Partner for the new card.

"This new American Express Platinum Credit Card is recognition of the growing affluence of Malaysians and will appeal to affluent customers seeking a card that reflects their lifestyle whilst offering a host of rewards with a touch of class and exclusivity," said Aminuddin.

Aminuddin added that the new credit card sets itself apart from the rest of platinum cards in its rewards and redemption programmes. "This Platinum credit card sets another international benchmark of world-class card privileges and unparalleled value to cardmembers. The card offers superior membership rewards including redemption of points for frequent flyers of over 40 airlines as well as an array of other exclusive benefits."

Kula said the American Express Platinum Credit Card was different from any other Platinum Credit Card in the market. "We are delighted to partner with Maybank in launching the American Express Platinum Credit Card in Malaysia. Currently there is no credit card that truly caters to the lifestyle needs of the large and rapidly growing affluent consumer segment in Malaysia. In order to meet these specific lifestyle needs, we entered into a number of strategic partnerships with top lifestyle merchants and other service establishments in Malaysia in the creation of the American Express Platinum Credit Card."

"This launch reaffirms American Express leadership in the affluent space and our overall commitment to the Malaysian market. We have a fine understanding of the changing affluent lifestyles and are confident that this product will truly define what a Platinum Credit Card should offer to consumers," added Kula.

The Platinum Credit Card is the first in Malaysia to offer complimentary golf privileges to some of Malaysia's top golf courses as well as access to members-only clubs of 5 golf courses in the region. In addition, the card is the first to accord members the 5-star privilege of a complimentary Prestige Platinum card by Shangri-la Kuala Lumpur.

The card offers better rate for earning Membership Rewards points so that Cardmembers can redeem exclusive items faster. Cardmembers earn 10 times rewards points spent at Platinum partners while purchases anywhere else earn 2 times rewards points. The card also rewards cardmembers who spend RM20,000 in the first 6 months with a complimentary Longines watch worth about RM2,000.

American Express Platinum Credit Cards offer the country's best rewards redemption for free flights on over 40 airlines from four frequent flyer programmes. The higher rewards points and redemption programmes accord unmatched privileges to cardmembers particularly for travel. Cardmembers also enjoy the American Express Global Assist service and free stay or upgrades at more than 5,000 top class hotels worldwide. The card is an ideal card for international travel.

Aminuddin added, "Since Maybank acquired the American Express cards business in Malaysia a year and half ago, we have introduced a series of rewards for our American Express Cardmembers, ranging from payment convenience at any of our 400 branches nationwide or via our internet banking portal Maybank2u.com to offering flexi zero-interest repayment scheme for a period of up to 6 months, flexible rewards using reward points to pay for purchases, line of credit, Global e-Shop access and 2x Membership Rewards points when they use their card."

"Our strategy will continue to remain focused in offering exclusive privileges and rewards programme to card members. At the same time, American Express will continue to leverage on Maybank's network and delivery channels to provide members payment and redemption convenience," he said.

Maybank is the largest issuer of credit, debit and charge cards as well as merchant acquirers to promote e-payments. Maybank has more than 50,000 merchants accepting debit, credit and charge card payments.

For more information on the American Express Platinum Card, call 03-2295 8877 or 1800 889 559 or log on to www.americanexpress.com or visit any Maybank branch nationwide.