Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia – AEON Bank has recently introduced ‘Neko Missions’ a gamification-based stamp programme, and are designed to enhance customer engagement and elevate their overall banking experience during their daily transactions.

The new feature was developed to promote greater synergy with AEON’s wider ecosystem, namely merchant partners such as ZUS Coffee and Tealive. AEON Bank’s effort to promote cashless transactions is also supported by PayNet via Neko Missions DuitNow QR programme.

Prior to this, AEON Bank has already embedded the widely–used AEON Points Programme into its digital banking app, which rewards customers that shop at AEON stores nationwide. This move has made it the only bank in the country to establish a retail loyalty programme integrated within its mobile banking app. 

The new Neko Missions aims to spark joy by introducing exciting rewards in customers’ everyday digital payment. Neko Missions’ virtual stamps called Neko Paws can be collected via AEON Bank app by clicking on the ‘Rewards’ icon and completing the Neko Missions. The current Neko Missions features AEON’s retail star tenant, ZUS Coffee, as well as PayNet’s DuitNow. 

From now until 31 March 2025, for every Neko Missions x DuitNow QR transactions of RM20 and above, customers can collect one Neko Paw, limited to two per day. A set of 10 Neko Paws can be redeemed into 1,000 AEON Points (worth RM5) via AEON Bank app.

Meanwhile, for Neko Missions x ZUS Coffee, from now until 31 May 2025, customers need to use their AEON Bank Debit Card-i to pay for their ZUS Coffee (minimum purchase of RM7) and they will be entitled to earn one Neko Paws. Upon collection of 6 Neko Paws, the rewards can be redeemed via the ZUS Coffee app.

YM Raja Teh Maimunah Raja Abdul Aziz, CEO at AEON Bank, said, “Digital banking has the potential to be more than just a payment and transaction tool. We aim to elevate the mobile banking experience for our customers by optimising it as a medium of engagement between customers and their favourite F&B or retail brands.”

She added, “Neko Missions infuses fun in daily payment and shopping activities, making cashless financial habits more dynamic. We will further develop our loyalty programme and through Neko Missions, we will explore partnerships with various merchants partners within our ecosystem, while leveraging on each others’ USP and customers brand affinity.”

Meanwhile, Azrul Fakhzan B. Mainor, senior director of commercial at PayNet, commented, “Our strategic collaboration with AEON Bank enhances Malaysia’s digital payments landscape by delivering a seamless, secure, and rewarding digital payment experience. With Neko Missions, we are integrating incentives into everyday transactions, encouraging more Malaysians to embrace cashless payments while enjoying meaningful rewards. This will strengthen customer engagement, as well as accelerate the shift toward a more connected, inclusive, and digitally empowered economy.”

Malaysia – AEON Bank Berhad announced it has officially gained approval from Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) and the Ministry of Finance to commence its digital banking operations in Malaysia, making it the country’s inaugural Islamic digital bank.

The approval granted to the Bank is pursuant to BNM’s validation of its operational readiness. AEON Bank is an associate company of AEON Credit Service Berhad and a subsidiary AEON Financial Service Co., Ltd.

Now with a ‘go-signal’ from the authorities, AEON Bank will work on forwarding its advocacy of digital technology, facilitating the introduction of new and innovative products for the AEON Group, and enhancing the overall proposition for its diverse customer base and partners.

The Bank also aims to further its commitment to promoting financial inclusion by extending financial services to individuals and small businesses that do not have access to funding. Additionally, it plans to prioritise financial literacy and education initiatives to empower consumers with the knowledge and tools to make informed financial decisions.

AEON Bank is planning to unveil the phased rollout of its new application in the first half of the year. It will first conduct an exclusive beta testing phase with AEON Group employees.

Raja Teh Maimunah, chief executive officer at AEON Bank, said, “Our core mission is to advance the promotion of financial inclusion and Islamic banking. As part of Malaysia’s most recognised retail household brands, we aim to provide accessible, inclusive, and Shariah-compliant digital banking solutions to our AEON Group of customers as well as to all Malaysians. It is our intent to empower our communities with access to digital financial services that are simplified, safe, and secure.”

Meanwhile, Daisuki Maeda, managing director of AEON Credit, also added, “This momentous occasion marks a significant leap forward in redefining financial services provided by the AEON Group and reaffirms our commitment to continuing our support for financial inclusivity.”

“As AEON Group Malaysia celebrates 40 years of trust, we see AEON Bank as an opportunity to provide more to our loyal customers and business partners who have been the bedrock of our success,” he emphasised.