The launch came as SMEs increasingly turned to digital payment solutions. According to Mastercard’s Q3 2025 SME Business Internal Report, 62% of SMEs in Malaysia engaged in cross-border payments or collections, higher than the Asia Pacific average of 55%.
Separately, Mastercard’s 2023 MSME Payment Methods Survey showed that debit cards ranked among the top three payment methods for business expenses in the Asia Pacific, with Malaysia recording them as the second most-used method. The survey also found that businesses using dedicated business debit cards used them twice as much compared to those using personal cards, highlighting the need for tailored solutions that were secure, enhanced efficiency, and improved business agility.
Kellee Kam, Group Chief Executive Officer of Alliance Bank, highlighted:
“SMEs are the backbone of Malaysia’s economy, and their success is critical to national growth. At Alliance Bank, we are committed to being The Bank For Life for our customers by delivering solutions that make banking simpler, faster, and more rewarding. The Biz-Xpress Debit Card is more than a payment tool—it’s a gateway to convenience, security, and rewards that empower SMEs to manage finances better and compete in a digital-first economy. With SMEs increasingly engaging in cross-border transactions, this card ensures they have the flexibility and confidence to thrive locally and globally.”
The Biz-Xpress Debit Card was positioned as a reliable payment solution designed for modern business needs, supporting cash deposits and withdrawals, secure online and in-store purchases worldwide, foreign currency payments, and global ATM access. The card design, inspired by Alliance Bank’s new headquarters, reflected a modern and progressive image for business owners. Existing customers were able to upgrade by exchanging their current debit card for the new Biz-Xpress Debit Card at any Alliance Bank branch starting January 2026.
In conjunction with the launch, Alliance Bank offered exclusive promotions until 30 June 2026, including:
- 1.5% cashback on overseas and online spending in foreign currencies
- Spend & Win campaign offering an RM100 Shopee voucher for the first 300 customers who applied and spent a minimum of RM500 within 30 days of card issuance.
Beena Pothen, Country Manager, Malaysia & Brunei, Mastercard, said
“As SMEs expand beyond domestic markets, the way they pay, get paid and manage liquidity becomes increasingly critical. Mastercard is committed to powering an inclusive digital economy that benefits everyone, everywhere. The Biz-Xpress Debit Card reflects this shared purpose – delivering solutions designed for businesses, catering to their needs as they operate at the pace modern commerce demands. By leveraging global acceptance, advanced security technologies, and data-driven capabilities, this collaboration helps SMEs unlock new opportunities, streamline operations, and stay competitive in an increasingly digital-first world.”
