MUFG Bank’s new Asia Pacific chief executive Nobuya Kawasaki has outlined the bank’s strategic focus on expanding digital finance, sustainable banking, and regional collaboration across key markets including the Philippines, Malaysia, Indonesia, and India.
Since assuming his role on Apr 1, 2025, Kawasaki emphasised MUFG’s extensive network across 18 APAC markets, highlighting partnerships with major commercial banks such as Krungsri in Thailand, VietinBank in Vietnam, Security Bank in the Philippines, and Bank Danamon in Indonesia. This network has positioned MUFG with one of the largest branch footprints in ASEAN, surpassing many local and global peers.
In the Philippines, MUFG is advancing financial inclusion through investments in fintech companies like GCash, the nation’s largest digital payment platform, where Kawasaki holds a board position. The bank also controls Home Credit Philippines, a leading point-of-sale loan provider. MUFG has actively promoted sustainable finance initiatives, engaging with policymakers and industry leaders to support the country’s energy transition, as seen during the MUFG Net Zero World event held in Manila on 21 May 2025.
Malaysia remains a stronghold for MUFG’s Islamic banking business, which offers both Ringgit and foreign currency Islamic finance solutions. Since starting its foreign currency Islamic finance operations in Malaysia in 2008, MUFG has expanded into markets including Indonesia and the UAE. The bank has been involved in landmark Sukuk transactions, such as Indonesia’s global sovereign issuances and advising on the Philippines’ inaugural Sukuk framework. In 2024, its Islamic Banking Window in Malaysia executed several cross-border deals, reinforcing growth in non-Ringgit business income.
In Indonesia, MUFG is deepening collaboration with its subsidiary Bank Danamon to deliver a broad range of financial services. Recent transactions include supporting corporate clients with employee Car and House Ownership Programmes, and providing syndicated green loans to major Indonesian conglomerates. The bank’s partnership with Adira Multi Finance and Home Credit Indonesia aims to strengthen client offerings and promote sustainable development.
India is identified as a key growth pillar, with MUFG expanding its product suite nationwide in lending, trade, structured finance, and digital solutions. The bank supports clients in sectors such as clean technology, infrastructure, and project finance, and facilitates Japanese corporations expanding in India. MUFG has pioneered blockchain-enabled trade finance transactions at India’s GIFT City, where it is among the largest lenders, underscoring its commitment to innovation and localisation.
Despite global uncertainties, MUFG remains optimistic about APAC’s long-term prospects, maintaining the region as its second core market for both leadership and financial contributions. Kawasaki emphasised the bank’s intent to leverage its global network and regional franchise to deliver value and deepen stakeholder engagement across Asia Pacific.
