Affin Bank Credit Card Holders: 4 Alarming Changes to Airport Lounge Access in Malaysia

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Affin Bank Credit Card Holders: Revised Airport Lounge Access in Malaysia By The Story Mojo

Effective 15th February 2025, the following outlets will no longer be available for our cardmembers:

• KLIA Terminal 1 – Flight Club Signature
• KLIA Terminal 1 – The Summerhouse
• Kota Kinabalu International Airport – Flight Club

Updated Plaza Premium Lounge outlet locations in Malaysia effective 15th February 2025. 

Affin Bank has recently announced updates to its airport lounge access benefits for credit card holders in Malaysia, which include the removal of several lounge locations from its eligibility list. This change is expected to impact frequent travelers who rely on these lounges for comfort, convenience, and a respite from the hustle and bustle of airport terminals. While the bank has not disclosed the specific lounges affected, the revision signals a shift in its approach to providing travel-related perks to its customers.

Previously, Affin Bank credit card holders enjoyed complimentary access to a wide network of airport lounges across Malaysia, making it a popular choice for travelers seeking added value from their credit cards. However, the latest update indicates that certain lounges will no longer be accessible under the bank’s lounge benefit program. This could pose an inconvenience for cardholders who frequently travel through airports where the excluded lounges are located.

Reasons Behind the Changes

While Affin Bank has not provided detailed explanations for the revision, such adjustments are not uncommon in the banking and credit card industry. Financial institutions often review their benefit offerings to ensure they remain sustainable and aligned with customer usage patterns. Factors such as operational costs, partnerships with lounge operators, and changing travel trends may have influenced this decision. Additionally, the bank may be reallocating resources to enhance other cardholder benefits or introduce new features that better cater to the evolving needs of its customers.

Impact on Affin Bank Credit Card Holders

For frequent travelers, airport lounge access is a highly valued perk, offering a quiet space to relax, complimentary refreshments, and other amenities that enhance the travel experience. The removal of select lounges from Affin Bank’s program may prompt cardholders to reconsider their travel plans or explore alternative options for lounge access. Those who frequently visit airports with affected lounges may need to make alternative arrangements, such as purchasing lounge passes or considering other credit cards that provide more comprehensive lounge access benefits.

Staying Informed

Affin Bank has encouraged cardholders to stay informed about the latest updates to its lounge access program. Customers can check the bank’s official website or contact customer service for the most up-to-date list of eligible lounges. It’s also advisable for travelers to verify lounge access availability before heading to the airport to avoid any unexpected surprises.

Exploring Alternatives

For cardholders who find the revised lounge access benefits less appealing, there are several alternatives to consider. Many other banks and credit card issuers in Malaysia offer competitive lounge access programs, often in partnership with global networks like Priority Pass or LoungeKey. These programs may provide access to a broader range of lounges, both domestically and internationally, making them a suitable option for frequent travelers. Additionally, some premium credit cards include complimentary lounge visits as part of their travel benefits, along with other perks such as travel insurance, airport transfers, and discounts on dining and shopping.

Affin Bank’s Commitment to Credit Card Holders

Despite the changes to its lounge access program, Affin Bank has reiterated its commitment to delivering value-added services to its cardholders. The bank continues to focus on enhancing its credit card offerings and ensuring that its benefits remain relevant and attractive to customers. This revision may be part of a broader strategy to streamline its offerings and allocate resources more effectively, potentially paving the way for new and improved benefits in the future.

Conclusion

The recent update to Affin Bank’s airport lounge access program highlights the importance of staying informed about changes to credit card benefits. While the removal of select lounge locations may disappoint some cardholders, it also presents an opportunity to explore alternative options that better align with individual travel needs. As the banking industry continues to evolve, customers can expect periodic adjustments to reward programs and benefits. For now, Affin Bank cardholders are advised to review the updated lounge access list and plan their travels accordingly to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience.

For further details, customers can reach out to Affin Bank’s customer service team or visit the bank’s official website for the latest information on lounge access and other cardholder benefits.