The companies also claim this is the first time that PC terminals can be used to activate cards and implement online value reloading in Asia Pacific.

Multi-Link is an online PIN-based prepaid debit card. Cardholders can use the card to withdraw cash from a network of 634,000 MasterCard/Maestro/Cirrus ATMs and make purchases at more than 4.3 million acceptance locations with Maestro terminals around the world, say the companies.

Individuals do not need a bank account with Seng Heng Bank in order to apply for Multi-Link. Consumers can buy a Multi-Link card and then reload additional funds at designated branches of Seng Heng Bank.

Paul Cheung, group general manager of Seng Heng Bank, says: "For those permanent residents without a credit card, Multi-Link is an electronic wallet for frequent travellers. For temporary Macau residents, it is a substitute product with similar functions. For non-Macau residents who need to transfer funds abroad, it is a handy electronic safe box.”