2004 News Releases

Shanghai – Manulife-Sinochem (MSL) received the “Most Trustworthy Company” award from the Shanghai Consumer Association and Shanghai Civil Office. This award is considered the highest recognition from the Shanghai government on a company’s trustworthiness.

After a rigorous appraisal process, a total of 91 organizations from a wide array of industries were chosen as this year’s winners of the award. Manulife-Sinochem is not only one of the few foreign-invested companies that were recognized, but is also the only insurance company that has ever been honored with the title.

“We are proud to be recognized by the Shanghai government for an attribute that is central to our core business operations,” said James Lin, General Manager of Manulife-Sinochem. “Manulife places heavy emphasis on being a highly reputable company that delivers quality products and superior customer service. It is these fundamentals that help us build trust with our customers, our suppliers, and our employees. I accept this award on behalf of our hardworking and dedicated employee and agents, whose joint efforts have resulted in MSL becoming the most trustworthy life insurance company in Shanghai.”

Under the direction of MSL’s General Manager and management team, the spirit of trustworthiness has become a core value for the company. Trustworthiness has also become a part of the competitive strategy for building the Manulife-Sinochem brand in China. A part of its daily operations and a basic competency for MSL staff and agents to adhere to, MSL consistently delivers trustworthy service to the company’s 200,000 customers.

Mr. Lin is a major advocate of cultivating an elite team that reflects “Spirit of Trustworthiness” within the company. “Trustworthiness can be regarded as the essence of the insurance business,” Mr. Lin said. “A trustworthy insurance company provides the best service and security to its customers. It also helps staff and agents to continuously excel in their roles and it helps to build a solid foundation for the company’s development. Trustworthiness could easily be considered the most important element for MSL to establish its brand awareness in China’s insurance industry.”

About Manulife-Sinochem
Manulife-Sinochem is a joint venture company between Manulife (International) Limited (51 per cent) and China Foreign Economic and Trade Trust & Investment Company, a member of the Sinochem group (49 per cent).

About Manulife Financial
Manulife Financial is a leading Canadian-based financial services group operating in 15 countries and territories worldwide. Through its extensive network of employees, agents and distribution partners, Manulife Financial offers clients a diverse range of financial protection products and wealth management services. Funds under management by Manulife Financial were Cdn$156.7 billion as at December 31, 2003.

Manulife Financial Corporation trades as ‘MFC’ on the TSX, NYSE and PSE, and under ‘0945’ on the SEHK. Manulife Financial can be found on the Internet at www.manulife.com.

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