(From left) Bank Islam regional head Abdul Malek Abdullah, ABS chairman Nasir Khan, Rosani, Chua and Li are seen during a press conference announcing the Financial Carnival Sarawak 2017.
KUCHING: Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM), with the help of our local financial industry, will be ramping up efforts in spreading financial education throughout Sarawak with its Financial Carnival event.
To be held at CityOne Exhibition Centre Kuching from November 24 to 26, 2017, the financial carnival themed ‘Your Financial Needs Matter’ aims to elevate public awareness on financial services, financial literacy and protection of consumer rights, so that we may be able to make informed financial decisions.
Speaking exclusively to The Borneo Post at BNM’s Kuching office yesterday, Rosani Mahamad Zain head of BNM Kuching said the main objective of the event is to help educate the public on how they can effectively manage their finances and what financial services are available to them out there.
“Both government agencies and financial institutions will be present during the event to give the public relevant information.
“It will be a one-stop platform for the public to access any type of financial information – from how to check and manage their credit reports (CCRIS) to what funds of schemes are available for their small-medium enterprises (SMEs).” The financial carnival also promises to deliver several pocket talks on financial scams to help safeguard the public from falling into one.
“From BNM, the Royal Malaysia Police and the Securities Commission Malaysia, we will have talks on Malaysia’s currency and security, how to identify genuine bank notes, and how to identify get rich quick schemes and financial scams,” she added.
Armed with the concept of edutainment, the carnival is also suitable for people of all ages including young children as there will be child friendly activities teaching basic financial concepts such as the importance of saving and prudent spending.
Other visitors can also look forward to appearances and performances by local celebrities, and stand chances to win attractive prizes during the carnival through participation in games, quizzes and contests.
Overall, the event is expected to be a comprehensive experience for all Sarawakians as it not only offers basic financial information but also information of new financial products and services on the market right now.
Commenting on this aspect, the Association of Banks of Sarawak (ABS) secretary Chua Ko Onn said that this carnival’s objective was in line with those of the state government which is to create a cashless society.
“Especially with Sarawak Pay coming in, we all should come together and visit the relevant booths to see what is being offered at the present moment.
“As the new industry develops, so will our speed of development and progress in financial tools,” he said during a press conference yesterday.
For Sarawak Pay, Rosani guides that there will be several pocket talks focusing on the subject and overall e-banking activities during the carnival.
Besides just promoting financial education, Tommy Li, the president of the Sarawak Insurance Association outlined opportunities for youths to learn more about professions in finance and insurance.
“Because the insurance industry has changed a lot in recent times, we need to cultivate more students to take up insurance as a career.
“We encourage students to come not only to gain information on our products but also to gain information on the industry and consider a career in insurance.” For more information on Financial Carnival Sarawak 2017, including participating institutions, booth locations and activities, please visit www.karnivalkewangan.com.my.