Ant International, the financial technology arm of Alibaba, and Capital A Berhad, the owner of AirAsia, have announced a strategic collaboration to enhance digital payments, financial technologies, and sustainability promotion.
This partnership between Ant International and Capital A will explore the integration of local payment methods, provide payment orchestration services, and drive business growth through digital marketing and sponsorship opportunities.
“Both entities are dedicated to agile expansion, and this partnership promises to accelerate our collective mission of providing seamless financial services and affordable travel experiences to our customers worldwide,” Tony Fernandes, CEO of Capital A, said in a media release.
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As part of the partnership, AirAsia MOVE is looking at integrating Alipay+ e-wallets as payment options and collaborating with Ant International on joint marketing and sponsorship opportunities. BigPay, with its 1.5 million users, will become the latest Alipay+ partner wallet, facilitating seamless payments for travelers abroad and exploring innovative technologies to enhance its services.
“By leveraging Ant International’s innovative digital technology solutions and Capital A’s robust global ecosystem, we can bring more seamless services and diversified growth pathways for consumers and businesses in the region and beyond,” said Yang Peng, CEO of Ant International.
AirAsia
Capital A’s airline entity, AirAsia, is in discussion to utilize Ant International’s Airline Controller orchestration solution to drive payment efficiency across online, offline, and in-flight transactions.
The collaboration extends beyond business objectives to include sustainability initiatives such as advancing global digital inclusion, fostering digital talent, and promoting sustainable travel programs.
The announcement comes at a time of resilience and rebound in the global tourism sector, with international tourism receipts reaching $1.4 trillion in 2023, according to UNWTO data. Alipay+ Cross-border Mobile Payment Service, introduced in 2020, enhanced cross-border consumer engagement.