RAM Ratings reaffirmed Standard Chartered Bank Malaysia Bhd.'s financialinstitution ratings at AAA/Stable/P1.

The ratings take into account the bank's strong localfranchise and the rating agency's expectations of support from its parent,Standard CharteredPlc. The bank's capitalization and lending position is alsowell-maintained with a strong mix of low-cost current and savings accounts.

However, RAM Ratings did note that the bank's credit profileis affected by its weaker asset quality, which will likely remain pressuredamid the challenging economic environment.