Revenue, however, eased to RM474.07 million from RM482.95 million previously, it said in a filing with Bursa Malaysia.

On prospects, the bank said it will focus on growing its business prudently in three areas, namely acquiring more customers; capitalising on consumer and business banking franchises; and enhancing productivity and efficiencies.

The group will continue to focus on addressing asset quality concerns by prioritising customer engagement and managing its loan portfolio with refined credit underwriting to support business growth.

“With these focus areas, and continuing effort to apply prudent management practices, the group expects to deliver sustainable returns to our shareholders while strengthening our market presence,” it said.

Alliance Bank expects Bank Negara Malaysia to raise the overnight policy rate (OPR) by another 25 basis points by year-end to 2.5%.

Group CEO Joel Kornreich said the bank would focus on delivering greater value, support and convenience to customers through enhanced digital solutions.

The bank said it will continue to help small and medium enterprises (SMEs) adopt sustainable practices through its environmental, social and governance-focused sustainability assistance programme.