MUFG has partnered with AEON Credit on a RM500 million social loan designed to bolster financial inclusion.
The deal is Malaysia’s largest social loan to date and marks MUFG’s first of its kind in the country.
It also represents the fourth sustainable finance transaction between MUFG and AEON Credit in the Asia Pacific region.
The financing will support AEON Credit’s efforts to extend credit to underserved groups, including low-income households and small businesses in new growth areas, in line with Bank Negara Malaysia’s Financial Inclusion Framework 2023–2026.
The initiative is guided by AEON Credit’s enhanced three-year sustainability roadmap, which places financial inclusion at its core.
Structured under the Social Loan Principles issued by global loan associations, the facility ensures adherence to international standards.
AEON Credit will provide annual disclosures to lenders on the allocation of proceeds and the social outcomes achieved.
The partnership complements existing green and sustainability-linked financing solutions in Malaysia, contributes to the country’s sustainable finance agenda under the Twelfth Malaysia Plan and supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities.
Daisuke Maeda, Managing Director of AEON Credit, said,
“This financing initiative will provide essential working capital support to underserved customers, particularly individuals with a gross monthly income of MYR 2,500 and below, as well as those residing in underrepresented regions.
Beyond expanding access to financial services, this initiative reflects our commitment to aligning business growth with meaningful social impact, strengthening our responsibility to society, in line with the AEON Group’s sustainability vision.”
Motohide Okuda, Chief Executive Officer and Country Head of Malaysia, MUFG, said,
“We are honoured to be AEON Credit’s trusted partner once again—this being our second sustainable finance transaction in Malaysia. This continued confidence reflects the strength of our relationship and shared dedication to fostering inclusive and resilient growth in Malaysia.
At MUFG, we are committed to empowering a brighter future and will continue to play a meaningful role in our clients’ sustainability journeys.”
