Agrobank Strengthens the Rural Banking Ecosystem Through the Opening of a New Branch in Sook

Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, YB Datuk Seri Arthur Joseph Kurup, officiated the opening of Agrobank’s new Micro Branch in Sook. The Member of Parliament for P.182 Pensiangan stated that this initiative represents a strategic step to expand banking accessibility in the rural areas of Sabah. This initiative is part of Agrobank’s commitment to empowering rural communities by providing more accessible financial facilities.

He added that the service is expected to benefit approximately 31,000 residents in Sook. Furthermore, the majority of residents here are engaged in agricultural activities, thus demonstrating the necessity of Agrobank’s presence at this strategic location in providing relevant financial services to stimulate the socioeconomic development of the local community.

“The distance between residential areas in Sook and the nearest banking facilities can take up to an hour’s journey, which makes it difficult for the community to access daily financial services. Therefore, with the presence of an Agrobank branch in Sook, financial services are now closer and more accessible, simultaneously supporting the economic growth of rural communities,” he said.

According to President and Group Chief Executive Officer of Agrobank, Dato’ Tengku Ahmad Badli Shah Raja Hussin, “Agrobank believes that access to banking services is a necessity for all segments of society, regardless of geographical location or socioeconomic background. Through the opening of this branch, we are committed to ensuring that no one is left behind in terms of financial inclusion. This also reflects our mandate to empower the unserved and underserved segments through a wide range of suitable and inclusive financial solutions.”

He further added, “The Sook branch marks our 219th network nationwide, offering a wide range of services including savings account openings, fund transfers, utility payments, takaful and will-writing products, ATM and CDM facilities, as well as financial advisory services tailored to the needs of the local community.”

The opening of the Agrobank branch in Sook not only provides rural communities with greater access to financial services but also strengthens the Bank’s efforts in reducing the economic gap between urban and rural areas. Agrobank remains committed to leading financial inclusion initiatives, ensuring that every segment of society receives equal opportunities in enjoying the convenience of financial services.