SUBANG JAYA, Oct 3 — MBSB Bank today committed RM1.3 billion in financing to Weststar Group, marking a significant contribution to the aviation services company’s expansion plans.
The financing is part of a larger syndicated facility totalling RM4.8 billion, jointly arranged with AmBank, Maybank, Bank Rakyat, and Bank Pembangunan for the purchase of 28 helicopters as well as the group’s expansion exercise.
This acquisition will enhance Weststar’s fleet to a total of 63 helicopters, reinforcing the company’s leadership in the aviation services sector.
The funding will support Weststar Aviation Services in fulfilling a 15-year contract secured in late 2024 to lease Leonardo helicopters to Malaysia’s military and various government agencies.
The contract includes maintenance and training components with an aim in strengthening the nation’s defence, security, and emergency response capabilities, with helicopter deliveries targeted within three years.
The collaboration between MBSB and Weststar was formalised at a signing ceremony at Weststar Aviation Services, Sultan Abdul Aziz Airport in Subang.
Speaking at the event, MBSB chairman Datuk Wan Kamaruzaman Wan Ahmad emphasised the significance of the aerospace and aviation sectors.
“Aerospace and aviation are no longer niche, they are growth multipliers that link Malaysia to global supply chains, energy corridors, and future industries.
“By financing Weststar’s expansion, MBSB is investing in Malaysia’s competitiveness, positioning the country to lead in sectors that matter most for tomorrow’s economy,” he noted.
The Weststar Group managing director Tan Sri Syed Azman Syed Ibrahim highlighted the strategic importance of the partnership with MBSB.
“This MoU with MBSB provides a strong strategic framework to unlock new
opportunities, supported by innovative financial solutions that are critical to sustaining long-term growth.
“By leveraging this partnership, we aim to accelerate our expansion both locally and globally, enhance operational resilience, and continue contributing to Malaysia’s competitiveness on the regional stage,” he added.
Syed Azman expressed confidence that the partnership will bolster Weststar as a key driver of future growth industries.
“Weststar’s strength lies in our ability to innovate, diversify, and adapt to the changing demands of the global economy.
“While aviation remains our core, we have expanded into multiple industries while maintaining our position as a regional leader in helicopter services,” he added.
