Maybank and Microsoft Join Forces in Billion-Ringgit AI Push
In a landmark deal worth RM1.0 billion, Malaysia’s largest financial group Maybank has partnered with Microsoft to power its next wave of digital transformation. The five-year alliance will see cutting-edge AI and cloud technologies rolled out across the region – putting Maybank at the forefront of innovation in Southeast Asian banking.
Maybank’s strategic partnership with Microsoft marks a bold move to reinvent banking for the digital age. The collaboration will leverage Microsoft’s advanced cloud, AI, and cybersecurity capabilities to sharpen customer focus, boost operational agility, and embed a culture of innovation across the organisation.
The partnership’s total value is estimated at RM1.0 billion over five years and includes a comprehensive upgrade of Maybank’s digital infrastructure, including a shift to Microsoft 365 and the adoption of Microsoft Azure.
Microsoft Azure to Power Strategic Systems
At the centre of this digital leap is Maybank’s adoption of Microsoft Azure as one of its core cloud platforms. Azure will support some of Maybank’s most strategic systems and workloads, providing a secure, scalable, and high-performance foundation for real-time analytics and rapid service deployment.
This move not only enables Maybank to speed up innovation cycles but also introduces greater resilience and cost-efficiency into its technology backbone.
44,000 Employees to Gain AI-Powered Copilot
In a major investment in workforce productivity, Maybank will deploy Microsoft 365 Copilot to all 44,000 of its employees. This AI assistant tool, embedded across everyday applications, is designed to offload repetitive and complex tasks, enabling staff to focus on higher-value work.
By integrating Copilot into daily workflows, Maybank aims to supercharge employee innovation, improve customer service, and increase both the effectiveness and efficiency of operations across the bank.
Cybersecurity at the Core
Understanding that trust is the currency of modern finance, Maybank is placing cybersecurity front and centre in the transformation effort. The partnership includes the integration of Microsoft’s cutting-edge security tools to protect customer data and reinforce the bank’s cyber defenses.
This will ensure Maybank continues to meet the highest standards of regulatory compliance and customer data protection.
A Talent-First Approach to Tech Transformation
More than just a technology overhaul, the partnership includes a commitment to talent development. Maybank and Microsoft will explore creating a Centre of Excellence to co-develop AI and cloud innovations and train in-house talent.
The centre is expected to play a key role in futureproofing Maybank’s workforce and positioning the bank as a long-term leader in financial technology innovation.
Voices of Leadership: A Bold Vision
«This strategic partnership with Microsoft is a leap forward in our digital transformation journey beyond our M25+ strategy,» said Dato’ Sri Khairussaleh Ramli, Maybank’s President and Group CEO. «It’s not just about technology; it’s about thinking ahead on how we can better serve our customers and create long-term value.»
Microsoft ASEAN President Mayank Wadhwa added, «Maybank is setting a powerful example for the industry across ASEAN. At Microsoft, we are committed to supporting this bold vision – one that humanises innovation and drives inclusive growth across the region.»
Accelerating Digital Banking Across ASEAN
This partnership doesn’t stop at Malaysia’s borders. It will extend across Maybank’s ASEAN network and beyond, underscoring the bank’s commitment to leading digital and AI adoption in the region.
With this move, Maybank is not only transforming itself – it’s shaping the future of banking in Southeast Asia.
