GHL Systems Berhad (GHL) and JCB International Co., Ltd., the global operations arm of Japan's leading payment brand JCB, have announced a strategic partnership. This collaboration enables GHL merchants in Malaysia, Thailand, and the Philippines to accept JCB cards. The partnership marks a major milestone for both companies, enhancing payment convenience for merchants and customers across these regions.
With JCB's extensive global presence and card network, this partnership adds another dimension to GHL's payment solutions. GHL merchants will seamlessly accept JCB Cards, offering a smooth payment experience for JCB cardmembers.
With GHL's merchant network covering over 480,000 payment touchpoints in various sectors across Malaysia, Thailand, and the Philippines, this partnership holds the potential to significantly increase JCB Card usage and accessibility. Through this partnership, the entire region can benefit from greater flexibility and the fostering of stronger business relationships between merchants and customers alike.
The tourism industry is expected to return to pre-pandemic levels by the end of 2024, with international tourism projected to exceed pre-pandemic numbers. This growth is largely fueled by a robust recovery in Asia, according to a report by the UN World Tourism Organization. The rollout is set to begin in Malaysia in the third quarter of 2024, followed by Thailand and the Philippines.
Sean Hesh, Executive Director, and group Chief Executive Officer at GHL, said, "This partnership not only reinforces our dedication to innovation and delivering seamless payment solutions but also highlights our commitment to simplifying payments regionally. With GHL poised to expand payment options at the merchant’s point of sale, businesses are empowered to better accommodate the anticipated surge in inbound tourist spending in 2024 and beyond".
Hiroko Michishita, Managing Director, JCB International Asia Pacific said, “This is a milestone for JCB’s business expansion in the region since GHL has a strong presence as well as ambition to grow further in acquiring business. Leveraging this partnership, we can better serve our card members from across the globe with enhanced card acceptance points. In addition, our confidence in this partnership is strengthened as GHL utilizes the JCB Payment Gateway* powered by Soft Space”.