KUALA LUMPUR, April 29 (Bernama) -- Bank Muamalat Malaysia Berhad (Bank Muamalat, the Group) registered a record profit before zakat and taxation (PBZT) of RM256.6 million for the financial year ended 31 December 2021, representing a growth of 46.8% from RM174.8 million posted in the previous corresponding period.
Bank Muamalat President and Chief Executive Officer, Khairul Kamarudin said that the stellar performance registered in financial year ended 31 December 2021 was largely driven by increased total income, strong financing growth and improved asset quality.
“Bank Muamalat has remained resilient during the challenging period, despite the risks arising from the resurgence of the COVID-19 pandemic and restrictions which impacted business operations, for most parts of last year. The tightening of the COVID-19 lockdowns affected individuals and businesses alike, nevertheless the Bank continued to assist customers facing financial constraints,“ said Khairul.
The Group also registered growth in total assets by 7.0% to RM27.6 billion, as compared to RM25.8 billion in the previous financial year. This was largely contributed by the 14.46% growth or RM2.6 billion increase in total gross financing to customers, from RM18.2 billion to RM20.9 billion, as of 31 December 2021, mainly from the consumer banking segment.
The Group's Common Equity Tier-1 Ratio and Total Capital Ratio remained stable, closing at 13.71% and 17.35%, respectively; well above regulatory requirements.
Bank Muamalat also continued to improve its asset quality, with Gross Impaired Financing positioned at 0.83% as at 31 December 2021, compared to 1.07% registered as at 31 December 2020.
“Bank Muamalat has placed greater emphasis on strengthening the business through its new 5-Year strategic plan by intensifying digitalization effort, continuous expansion of its customer base and service efficiency. The Bank is committed to a sustainable growth through the continuous adoption of value-based intermediation initiatives in building stakeholders’ confidence and value, “ said Khairul.
Khairul also credited the high COVID-19 vaccination rate in Malaysia, saying the speedy rollout of booster doses paved the way for the return to normalcy.
“As a result, all domestic economic sectors are projected to expand in 2022. After weathering the pandemic on strong footing, Bank Muamalat anticipates a better performance for 2022, arising from the positive momentum in 2021 and coupled with enhanced digital and technology capabilities,“ added Khairul.
Although domestic economic sectors are recovering, Khairul assured customers that the Agensi Kaunseling dan Pengurusan Kredit (AKPK) payment assistance remains available to customers. Those still experiencing financial hardship can apply for assistance as follows:
1. URUS: Extended application window for flood-affected customers
a. For eligible B50 flood-affected customers, who have signed up for the Bank’s flood relief assistance.
b. Customers can apply for URUS Flood upon the expiry of the Bank’s flood relief assistance or until 31 July 2022, whichever is earlier
2. Financial Resilience Support Scheme (FIRST)
a. For individuals and microenterprise customers, with performing financing, impacted by COVID-19, with at least 25% loss of income.
b. The application will be closed on 30 June 2022.
