Essential Malaysia Apps 2026

These apps are essential for navigating Malaysia. Download them before you land.

Grab - The Super App

The single most important app for Malaysia travel.

What it does:

• Ride-hailing (like Uber)
• Food delivery (GrabFood)
• Grocery delivery (GrabMart)
• Package delivery
• Payments (GrabPay)

Why essential:

• Taxis are unreliable, Grab is everywhere
• Safer than street taxis
• Fixed pricing, no haggling
• Available 24/7 in all cities
• English interface

Setup tips:

• Register with your phone number
• Add credit card for seamless payment
• Can use foreign cards
• Download offline maps for areas with poor signal

Touch 'n Go eWallet

Malaysia's most widely accepted e-wallet.

What it does:

• Cashless payments everywhere
• Highway toll payments
• Public transport (MRT, LRT, buses)
• Parking payments
• Online purchases

Why essential:

• Accepted at 95% of merchants
• Faster than card payments
• Works at hawker stalls
• Toll roads require it (or cash)
• Regular cashback promotions

Setup tips:

• Register with passport
• Top up via international card
• Link to physical TnG card for tolls
• Enable notifications for promotions

Google Maps

Navigation and discovery.

Why essential:

• Most accurate maps for Malaysia
• Public transport directions
• Restaurant/attraction reviews
• Offline maps available
• Traffic conditions

Tips:

• Download offline maps for your areas
• Check "Popular times" for attractions
• Reviews often more reliable than other platforms

Grab

Primary transport app (detailed above).

• GrabCar: Standard rides
• GrabCar Premium: Nicer cars
• GrabBike: Motorcycle taxi (faster, cheaper)
• JustGrab: Any available vehicle

MRT/LRT Apps

Kuala Lumpur MRT

Official app for KL rail network.

• Route planner
• Fare calculator
• Real-time train status
• Station information

Moovit

Public transport navigation.

• Bus, MRT, LRT routes
• Real-time arrivals
• Step-by-step directions
• Works across Malaysia

Google Maps

Best for:

• Driving directions
• Walking routes
• General navigation
• Discovering places

Waze

Best for:

• Driving with real-time traffic
• Avoiding jams
• Speed trap warnings
• Local driver community updates

Airport Apps

Malaysia Airports

Official MAHB app.

• Flight status
• Terminal maps
• Parking availability
• Shop/restaurant directory

AirAsia

If flying AirAsia (common in region).

• Mobile boarding pass
• Flight booking
• Check-in
• Seat selection

Intercity Travel

Easybook

Bus and train tickets.

• Compare operators
• Book intercity buses
• Train tickets (KTM)
• Ferry bookings

KTMB

Official Malaysian Railways app.

• ETS train bookings
• KTM Komuter info
• Schedule checking

Food Delivery

GrabFood

Largest food delivery platform.

• Widest restaurant selection
• Integrated with Grab app
• GrabUnlimited subscription for free delivery
• Regular promotions

Foodpanda

Second largest delivery app.

• Good restaurant variety
• Pandapro subscription
• Often has exclusive restaurants
• Grocery delivery (pandamart)

ShopeeFood

Newer but growing fast.

• Aggressive promotions
• Integrated with Shopee app
• Good for budget meals
• Vouchers and cashback

Restaurant Discovery

Google Maps

Best for:

• Finding nearby restaurants
• Reading reviews
• Checking hours
• Seeing photos

Burpple

Food-focused social platform.

• Curated restaurant guides
• Food photos and reviews
• Deals and promotions
• Local foodie community

Zomato

Restaurant discovery.

• Menus and prices
• Reviews and ratings
• Table reservations
• Collections and lists

HungryGoWhere

Local food guide.

• Restaurant reviews
• Food articles
• Promotions
• Reservations

Reservations

Eatigo

Time-based discounts.

• Up to 50% off
• Off-peak dining deals
• Easy reservations
• Points system

Chope

Restaurant reservations.

• Fine dining bookings
• Chope-Dollars rewards
• Exclusive deals
• Event bookings

Grocery Delivery

GrabMart

Quick grocery delivery.

• Convenience stores
• Supermarkets
• 30-60 min delivery

Pandamart

Foodpanda's grocery service.

• Quick delivery
• Good selection
• Regular promotions

HappyFresh

Full grocery shopping.

• Major supermarkets
• Personal shopper
• Scheduled delivery

E-Wallets

Touch 'n Go eWallet

Most essential (detailed above).

• Widest acceptance
• Toll payments
• Transport integration

GrabPay

Integrated with Grab.

• Ride payments
• Food delivery
• Some retail

Boost

Cashback focused.

• Shake rewards
• Partner promotions
• Bill payments

ShopeePay

For Shopee users.

• Shopee purchases
• Some retail
• Promotions

BigPay

Best for tourists.

• Physical Mastercard
• No foreign fees
• Easy signup with passport
• ATM withdrawals
• Competitive rates

Banking Apps

Maybank MAE

If you have Maybank account.

• Full banking
• E-wallet features
• QR payments

CIMB Octo

CIMB's digital banking.

• Account management
• Transfers
• Bill payments

International

Wise

International transfers.

• Multi-currency
• Low fees
• MYR account available
• Debit card

PayPal

Limited but useful.

• Online purchases
• Some merchants accept
• International transfers

Revolut

Travel-friendly banking.

• Multi-currency
• No foreign fees
• Works in Malaysia

Currency

XE Currency

Exchange rate checker.

• Real-time rates
• Rate alerts
• Offline access
• Calculator

Expense Tracking

Spendee

Track travel expenses.

• Multiple currencies
• Categories
• Shared wallets
• Bank sync

Messaging

WhatsApp

Essential for Malaysia.

• Everyone uses it
• Business communication
• Restaurant bookings
• Tour operators
• Even government services

Telegram

Secondary messaging.

• News channels
• Deal groups
• Some businesses

WeChat

If interacting with Chinese tourists/businesses.

• Payment (limited)
• Messaging
• Mini programs

Translation

Google Translate

Best overall translator.

• Malay, Chinese, Tamil support
• Camera translation (signs, menus)
• Offline download available
• Conversation mode

Microsoft Translator

Alternative translator.

• Good accuracy
• Offline packs
• Multi-person conversations

Useful Phrases to Save

Calling

WhatsApp Calls

Free calls over WiFi/data.

• Most reliable
• Video calls
• International free

Skype

For calling landlines.

• Cheap international rates
• Call Malaysian numbers
• Credit system

Local SIM

Best for local calls.

• Cheap local rates
• Data included
• See SIM Card Guide

VPN (If Needed)

ExpressVPN / NordVPN

For accessing blocked content.

• Some sites restricted
• Streaming services
• Privacy

Note: VPNs are legal in Malaysia for personal use.

Accommodation

Booking.com

Best for hotels.

• Widest selection
• Free cancellation options
• Genius discounts
• Reviews

Agoda

Strong in Asia.

• Often cheaper for Asia
• Good last-minute deals
• AgodaCash rewards

Airbnb

Apartments and unique stays.

• Local experiences
• Longer stays
• Kitchen facilities

Hostelworld

Budget accommodation.

• Hostels
• Reviews from travelers
• Social features

Flights

Skyscanner

Flight comparison.

• All airlines
• Price alerts
• Flexible dates

AirAsia

Budget airline app.

• Direct bookings
• Mobile boarding
• Manage bookings

Malaysia Airlines

National carrier app.

• Bookings
• Check-in
• Enrich loyalty

Google Flights

Quick comparisons.

• Price tracking
• Calendar view
• Explore feature

Activities

Klook

Tours and activities.

• Attractions tickets
• Day tours
• Transport passes
• Often discounted

GetYourGuide

Tours and experiences.

• Curated tours
• Skip-the-line tickets
• Free cancellation

Tripadvisor

Reviews and bookings.

• Attraction reviews
• Restaurant ratings
• Tour bookings

Viator

Tours marketplace.

• Wide selection
• Reviews
• Instant confirmation

Trip Planning

Google Trips (discontinued but alternatives)

Wanderlog

• Itinerary planning
• Map integration
• Collaboration
• Offline access

TripIt

• Automatic itinerary
• Forward confirmations
• Travel timeline

Shopping

Shopee

Largest e-commerce platform.

• Everything available
• Daily deals
• Free shipping
• ShopeePay integration

Lazada

Second largest marketplace.

• Good electronics
• LazMall for brands
• Regular sales

Zalora

Fashion focused.

• Clothing, shoes
• Free returns
• Good brands

Entertainment

TGV Cinemas

Movie tickets.

• Seat selection
• Snack combos
• Member discounts

GSC

Golden Screen Cinemas.

• Movie bookings
• Promotions
• Loyalty program

Astro GO

Local streaming.

• Malaysian content
• Sports
• News

News & Information

The Star

English news.

• Local news
• Breaking alerts
• Good coverage

Malaysiakini

Independent news.

• In-depth reporting
• Multiple languages

Says.com

Lifestyle and viral.

• Light reading
• Local trends
• Entertainment

Utilities

MyTNB

Electricity bills.

• Pay bills
• Check usage
• Report outages

Air Selangor

Water utility (Selangor).

• Bill payments
• Usage tracking

MDAC

Malaysia Digital Arrival Card.

• Required for entry
• Complete before arrival
• Immigration form

MySejahtera

Health app.

• COVID status (if still relevant)
• Health records
• Vaccination records

Government

MyEG

Government services.

• Road tax renewal
• Summons check
• Various services

JPJ eSPAD

Driving license services.

• License renewal
• Check status

Cashback & Rewards

Fave

Deals and cashback.

• Restaurant deals
• Spa/beauty discounts
• Cashback on purchases
• FavePay

ShopBack

Cashback platform.

• Online shopping cashback
• In-store cashback
• Travel bookings
• Compare deals

Boost

E-wallet with rewards.

• Shake for rewards
• Partner discounts
• Cashback

Coupon Apps

Shopee

Daily vouchers.

• Flash sales
• Voucher collection
• Coin cashback

Lazada

Regular promotions.

• Voucher center
• Flash sales
• LazCoins

Deal Aggregators

Lowyat.NET

Tech deals forum.

• Electronics deals
• Price discussions
• Recommendations

Malaysia4U

Deals aggregator.

• Current promotions
• Multiple categories
• Events calendar

Credit Card Deals

Most Malaysian banks have apps with exclusive deals:

• Maybank Treats
• CIMB Deals
• Public Bank deals
• RHB deals

Dining Deals

Eatigo

Time-based discounts.

• Up to 50% off
• Off-peak savings

Burpple Beyond

Subscription deals.

• 1-for-1 deals
• Monthly fee
• Good value if dining out often

Entertainer

Buy-one-get-one deals.

• Restaurants
• Activities
• Annual subscription

Travel Deals

Klook

Activity discounts.

• Promo codes
• Flash sales
• Combo deals

Traveloka

Southeast Asia focused.

• Flight + hotel deals
• Promo codes
• Points system

Tips for Finding Deals

1. Follow brands on social media
2. Subscribe to newsletters
3. Check apps before purchasing
4. Use cashback apps
5. Pay with e-wallets for extra discounts
6. Look for credit card promotions

Emergency Services

Emergency Numbers (Save in Phone)

• Police: 999
• Ambulance: 999
• Fire: 994
• Tourist Police: 03-2166 8322

MERS 999

Official emergency app.

• One-touch emergency call
• GPS location sharing
• Multiple emergency services
• Available in app stores

Safety Apps

Grab

Safety features built-in.

• Share trip with contacts
• Emergency button
• Driver details recorded
• 24/7 support

bSafe

Personal safety app.

• SOS alarm
• Location sharing
• Fake call feature
• Timer check-in

What3Words

Precise location sharing.

• 3-word addresses
• Useful for emergencies
• Works offline
• Share exact location

Health

MySejahtera

Health records.

• Vaccination status
• Health declarations
• Facility finder

DoctorOnCall

Telemedicine.

• Video consultations
• Prescription delivery
• 24/7 available
• English speaking doctors

BookDoc

Healthcare booking.

• Doctor appointments
• Specialist search
• Health screening

Pharmacy Apps

Watsons

Pharmacy chain.

• Product ordering
• Store locator
• Member discounts

Guardian

Pharmacy chain.

• Online ordering
• Health products
• Promotions

Travel Insurance

World Nomads

Travel insurance.

• Buy/extend while traveling
• Claims via app
• Adventure coverage

SafetyWing

Nomad insurance.

• Monthly subscription
• Medical coverage
• Easy claims

Embassy Contacts

Save your embassy contact:

• US Embassy: 03-2168 5000
• UK High Commission: 03-2170 2200
• Australian High Commission: 03-2146 5555
• Singapore High Commission: 03-2161 6277

Offline Preparation

1. Download offline maps
2. Save emergency numbers
3. Screenshot important info
4. Download translation packs
5. Save hotel address in local language
6. Keep digital copies of documents

Before You Leave Home

Essential Downloads

• [ ] Grab
• [ ] Touch 'n Go eWallet
• [ ] Google Maps (+ offline maps)
• [ ] WhatsApp
• [ ] Google Translate (+ offline Malay)

Nice to Have

• [ ] Booking.com / Agoda
• [ ] Klook
• [ ] XE Currency
• [ ] Your airline app

Setup Steps

Grab

1. Download app
2. Register with phone number
3. Verify via SMS
4. Add payment method (credit card)
5. Test that it works before travel

Touch 'n Go

1. Download app
2. Register with phone number
3. Complete identity verification (passport)
4. Add payment method
5. Top up RM100-200

Google Maps

1. Open app
2. Search "Malaysia"
3. Download offline map
4. Download specific cities you'll visit

Google Translate

1. Open app
2. Go to Settings > Offline translation
3. Download: Malay, Chinese (Simplified)
4. Test camera translation

WhatsApp

1. Register with your number
2. Verify works internationally
3. Enable WiFi calling

On Arrival

With Malaysian SIM

1. Insert SIM
2. Update phone number in apps if needed
3. Verify Grab works with new number
4. Top up Touch 'n Go if needed

Data Considerations

Storage Needed

Pro Tips

1. Use WiFi to download apps before travel
2. Keep apps updated
3. Enable notifications for deals
4. Log into accounts before arriving
5. Test payment methods work internationally
6. Screenshot important confirmations
7. Save offline copies of bookings

Ride-Hailing Comparison

Verdict: Grab is the only realistic option for tourists. Others have limited coverage and features.

Food Delivery Comparison

Verdict: GrabFood for selection, ShopeeFood for deals, Foodpanda as backup.

E-Wallet Comparison

Verdict: Touch 'n Go is essential. GrabPay useful if using Grab. Others optional.

Navigation Comparison

Verdict: Google Maps for general use, Waze for driving.

Accommodation Comparison

Verdict: Compare Booking.com and Agoda for hotels. Airbnb for apartments.

Grab Issues

Can't find drivers:

• Peak hours (8-9am, 5-7pm) have high demand
• Try different car types
• Walk to main road for better pickup
• Wait 5-10 minutes and retry
• Check if surge pricing is extreme

Payment declined:

• Verify card is enabled for international
• Try different card
• Use GrabPay balance instead
• Contact your bank about Malaysia transactions

GPS issues:

• Enable high accuracy location
• Restart app
• Move to open area
• Manually adjust pickup pin

Touch 'n Go Issues

Verification failed:

• Ensure passport photo is clear
• Good lighting for selfie
• Remove glasses/hat
• Try different background
• Contact support if persistent

Top-up failed:

• Card may not support international
• Try smaller amount
• Use different card
• Try GrabPay to TnG transfer

Payment declined at merchant:

• Check balance
• Ensure app is updated
• Try closing and reopening
• Ask merchant to retry

Google Maps Issues

Offline maps not working:

• Ensure downloaded for correct area
• Check storage space
• Re-download if corrupted
• Enable offline mode in settings

Wrong directions:

• Report to Google
• Try Waze as alternative
• Ask locals for verification
• Check if road is new/changed

WhatsApp Issues

Can't verify with Malaysian SIM:

• Wait for SMS (may take minutes)
• Try voice call verification
• Ensure SIM is activated
• Check signal strength

Messages not sending:

• Check data connection
• Verify WhatsApp has data permission
• Restart app
• Check if contact blocked you

General Troubleshooting

App crashing:

1. Force close app
2. Clear cache (Android)
3. Restart phone
4. Update app
5. Reinstall if persistent

App not installing:

• Check storage space
• Verify app store region
• Use VPN if geo-restricted
• Try APK download (Android, risky)

Battery drain:

• Disable background refresh
• Reduce location accuracy
• Close unused apps
• Enable battery saver
• Carry power bank

Data Usage Optimization

Offline Functionality

App Permissions Guide

Essential permissions to grant:

• Location: Grab, Maps, food delivery
• Camera: Translation, e-wallets (QR scanning)
• Storage: Offline maps, downloads
• Notifications: Ride updates, delivery status

Permissions to consider:

• Contacts: WhatsApp (for finding friends)
• Microphone: Voice search, calls
• Phone: Call drivers directly

Permissions to deny:

• Unnecessary access requests
• Apps asking for unrelated permissions
• Background location (unless needed)

Security Best Practices

Account security:

• Use strong, unique passwords
• Enable 2FA where available
• Don't share OTPs with anyone
• Log out of shared devices

Payment security:

• Don't save cards on untrusted apps
• Monitor transactions
• Set spending limits
• Use virtual cards if available

Device security:

• Keep phone locked
• Enable Find My Phone
• Don't use public WiFi for payments
• Keep apps updated

Data Privacy

What apps collect:

• Location history
• Payment information
• Usage patterns
• Contact information
• Device information

Minimizing data collection:

• Review privacy settings
• Limit location to "while using"
• Opt out of personalized ads
• Don't link unnecessary accounts
• Use guest checkout when possible

Scam Awareness

Common app scams:

• Fake Grab drivers asking for cash
• Phishing messages claiming account issues
• Fake e-wallet top-up offers
• Fraudulent "customer service" calls

Red flags:

• Requests for OTP or password
• Unusual payment requests
• Links to non-official websites
• Pressure to act immediately
• Offers too good to be true

Protection:

• Only use official apps
• Never share OTPs
• Verify through official channels
• Report suspicious activity
• Don't click unknown links

VPN Usage

When to use VPN:

• Accessing geo-restricted content
• Using public WiFi
• Privacy concerns
• Accessing home country services

VPN considerations:

• May slow connection
• Some apps detect and block VPNs
• Choose reputable providers
• Free VPNs may sell data

Recommended VPNs:

• ExpressVPN
• NordVPN
• Surfshark
• ProtonVPN (free tier available)

Lost Phone Protocol

1. Use Find My Phone to locate
2. Remote lock device
3. Change passwords for sensitive apps
4. Contact bank to freeze cards
5. Report to police if stolen
6. Remote wipe if unrecoverable
7. Notify e-wallet providers

Kuala Lumpur & Selangor

Best app coverage - all apps work well here.

Unique to KL:

• MRT/LRT apps most useful
• Grab availability excellent
• All food delivery options
• Most e-wallet acceptance

KL-Specific Apps:

• Kuala Lumpur MRT - Official rail app
• DBKL - City council services
• Smart Selangor - State services

Penang

Good coverage with some differences.

What works well:

• Grab (good coverage)
• Food delivery (all major apps)
• Google Maps (accurate)

Limitations:

• Fewer Grab drivers in rural areas
• Some restaurants not on delivery apps
• Heritage zone parking apps useful

Penang-Specific:

• Penang Smart Parking - Street parking
• CAT bus app - Free bus service

Langkawi

Limited app functionality.

What works:

• Google Maps
• Booking apps
• WhatsApp

What doesn't work well:

• Grab (very limited)
• Food delivery (minimal)
• E-wallets (cash preferred)

Tips:

• Rent a car (essential)
• Book tours via Klook
• Cash is king

Sabah & Sarawak

Variable coverage depending on area.

Kota Kinabalu/Kuching:

• Grab works (limited)
• Food delivery available
• E-wallets accepted in cities

Rural/Remote:

• Apps mostly useless
• Cash essential
• Offline maps critical
• Download everything beforehand

East Malaysia Tips:

• Maxim app (alternative to Grab in KK)
• Local tour operators via WhatsApp
• Offline everything

Johor Bahru

Good coverage, Singapore influence.

What works well:

• Grab (excellent)
• All food delivery
• E-wallets widely accepted

JB-Specific:

• Singapore apps sometimes work
• Cross-border considerations
• Causeway traffic apps

Cameron Highlands/Genting

Tourist areas with variable coverage.

What works:

• Google Maps (mostly)
• Booking apps
• WhatsApp

Limitations:

• Grab limited
• Food delivery minimal
• Signal can be weak

Tips:

• Book transport in advance
• Download offline maps
• Hotel concierge for local needs

When Primary Apps Fail

Always have backup options ready.

Transport Alternatives

If Grab doesn't work:

• MyCar - Secondary ride-hailing
• MULA - KL only
• inDriver - Negotiate fares
• Regular taxi (meter or negotiate)
• Public transport

If Google Maps fails:

• Waze - Better for driving
• Apple Maps - Improving
• Maps.me - Offline focused
• HERE WeGo - Good offline

Payment Alternatives

If Touch 'n Go fails:

• GrabPay - Wide acceptance
• Boost - Good backup
• Cash - Always works
• Credit card - Most places

If card declined:

• Try different card
• Use e-wallet
• ATM withdrawal
• Contact bank

Food Delivery Alternatives

If GrabFood unavailable:

• Foodpanda - Good coverage
• ShopeeFood - Growing
• Direct restaurant call
• Walk to restaurant

Communication Alternatives

If WhatsApp down:

• Telegram - Growing in Malaysia
• SMS - Still works
• Facebook Messenger
• WeChat - Chinese community

Booking Alternatives

If Booking.com issues:

• Agoda - Often cheaper
• Hotels.com - Good rewards
• Direct hotel booking
• Airbnb - Apartments

Offline Alternatives

When you have no data:

• Offline Google Maps
• Downloaded Google Translate
• Screenshots of bookings
• Saved addresses in notes
• Physical hotel business card

Emergency Alternatives

If phone lost/broken:

• Hotel business center
• Internet cafe
• Borrow phone for calls
• Police station assistance

App-Free Solutions

Sometimes old school works:

• Ask locals for directions
• Hotel concierge services
• Tourist information centers
• Physical maps (available at airports)
• Taxi stands at malls/hotels

Why Updates Matter

Malaysian apps update frequently with:

• New features
• Bug fixes
• Security patches
• Promotion integrations
• Payment method updates

Update Strategy

Before Your Trip:

• Update all apps on home WiFi
• Download latest versions
• Test that apps work
• Clear old cache

During Your Trip:

• Use hotel WiFi for updates
• Enable auto-update on WiFi only
• Check for critical updates weekly
• Don't update on mobile data (expensive)

App Version Requirements

Some features require minimum versions:

• Grab: Latest for all payment options
• Touch 'n Go: Recent for QR payments
• Google Maps: Latest for offline features

Storage Management

Apps grow over time. Manage storage:

• Clear cache regularly
• Delete unused apps
• Offload photos to cloud
• Keep 2GB free minimum

When Apps Stop Working

After updates, apps may break:

1. Force close and reopen
2. Clear app cache
3. Log out and back in
4. Reinstall if needed
5. Check for newer update

Beta vs Stable

Stick to stable versions:

• Beta versions may have bugs
• Stable versions more reliable
• Don't opt into beta programs while traveling

App Permissions After Updates

Updates may request new permissions:

• Review before accepting
• Deny unnecessary permissions
• Check privacy settings
• Revoke unused permissions

WiFi Availability

Free WiFi is common in Malaysia:

Hotels:

• Almost all offer free WiFi
• Quality varies (5-50 Mbps)
• May require room number login
• Usually reliable

Malls:

• Free WiFi available
• Registration often required
• Time-limited sessions
• Variable quality

Cafes:

• Most offer free WiFi
• Ask for password
• Usually good quality
• Expected to purchase something

Airports:

• Free WiFi available
• Time-limited (2-3 hours)
• Decent speeds
• Registration required

Data-Saving Mode

Enable data saver in apps:

• Grab: Settings > Data Saver
• Google Maps: Download offline
• WhatsApp: Low data usage mode
• Social media: Disable autoplay

Offline Functionality

What works offline:

• Downloaded Google Maps
• Downloaded Google Translate
• Saved boarding passes
• Downloaded entertainment
• Note-taking apps

What needs data:

• Grab (always)
• Food delivery
• E-wallet payments
• Real-time navigation
• Social media

Public WiFi Security

Stay safe on public networks:

• Use VPN for sensitive tasks
• Avoid banking on public WiFi
• Don't enter passwords on HTTP sites
• Log out of accounts after use
• Disable auto-connect

Hotspot Sharing

Share your data with others:

• Most Malaysian SIMs allow hotspot
• Battery drains quickly
• Speeds shared among devices
• Set strong password