Malaysia Money Guide 2026

The Malaysian Ringgit (MYR or RM) is the official currency. Understanding the currency will help you budget and avoid overpaying.

Currency Basics

• Symbol: RM (Ringgit Malaysia)
• ISO Code: MYR
• Subunit: 100 sen = 1 Ringgit
• Exchange rate: ~RM4.5-4.7 = USD1 (fluctuates)

Banknotes in Circulation

Coins

• 5 sen, 10 sen, 20 sen, 50 sen
• 1 sen coins phased out (prices rounded)
• Coins rarely used except for exact change

Rounding Rules

Since 1 sen coins are discontinued, cash transactions round to nearest 5 sen:

• RM10.01-10.02 → RM10.00
• RM10.03-10.07 → RM10.05
• RM10.08-10.09 → RM10.10

Tip: Card payments charge exact amount, no rounding.

Recognizing Genuine Notes

• Watermark of first PM visible when held to light
• Security thread embedded in paper
• Color-shifting ink on higher denominations
• Raised printing you can feel

Best Places to Exchange Money

Licensed Money Changers (Best Rates)

Found in malls, tourist areas, and city centers.

• Rates 2-5% better than banks/airport
• No commission usually
• Bring passport for large amounts
• Compare 2-3 shops before exchanging

Top Money Changers in KL

• Sogo KL (Jalan TAR) - Consistently good rates
• Mid Valley Megamall - Multiple options to compare
• Pavilion KL - Convenient, decent rates
• Nu Sentral - Near KL Sentral station

Airport Exchange (Avoid if Possible)

• KLIA/KLIA2 rates 5-10% worse
• Only exchange small amount for taxi/transport
• Better rates in city

Banks

• Rates slightly worse than money changers
• More paperwork required
• Useful for large amounts (better security)
• Maybank, CIMB, Public Bank common

Hotels

• Worst rates (10-15% markup)
• Only for emergencies
• Convenient but expensive

Exchange Tips

1. Check xe.com for current rates before exchanging
2. Avoid exchanging at airports if possible
3. Bring clean, undamaged notes (torn notes rejected)
4. USD, EUR, GBP, SGD, AUD get best rates
5. Smaller currencies may have poor rates
6. Keep exchange receipts for departure

How Much to Exchange

Most places accept cards, so don't carry too much cash.

Using ATMs in Malaysia

ATMs are everywhere—malls, convenience stores, banks, airports. Most accept international cards.

Major ATM Networks

• Maybank (yellow) - Most widespread
• CIMB (red) - Common in malls
• Public Bank (white/red) - Reliable
• RHB, Hong Leong, AmBank - Also common

ATM Fees

Minimizing ATM Fees

1. Withdraw larger amounts less frequently
2. Use Maybank ATMs (often lower fees)
3. Get a travel card with no foreign fees
4. Decline "conversion" option (DCC scam)

Dynamic Currency Conversion (DCC) Warning

ATMs may offer to convert to your home currency. ALWAYS DECLINE.

• Choose "without conversion" or "MYR"
• DCC rates are 3-7% worse
• Let your bank do the conversion

ATM Withdrawal Limits

• Typical limit: RM1,500-3,000 per transaction
• Daily limit: RM5,000-10,000
• Your bank may have lower limits

ATM Safety Tips

• Use ATMs inside banks or malls
• Cover PIN when entering
• Avoid ATMs with suspicious devices
• Keep receipts until you verify transaction
• Have backup card in case one is blocked

Card Acceptance

Where Cards May Not Work

• Hawker stalls (cash only)
• Small shops
• Night markets
• Some taxis
• Rural areas

Malaysia is rapidly going cashless. E-wallets are widely accepted and often offer discounts.

Touch 'n Go eWallet

The most widely used e-wallet in Malaysia.

Setup:

1. Download Touch 'n Go eWallet app
2. Register with phone number
3. Verify identity (passport for foreigners)
4. Top up via card or bank transfer

Uses:

• Toll payments (highways)
• Public transport (MRT, LRT, buses)
• Retail payments (most shops)
• Parking
• Food delivery

Tourist Benefits:

• No need for exact change
• Faster than card payments
• Cashback promotions
• Works at hawker stalls

GrabPay

Integrated with Grab app (ride-hailing).

Setup:

1. Already in Grab app
2. Add payment method
3. Top up wallet

Uses:

• Grab rides
• GrabFood delivery
• Retail payments
• Some restaurants

Other E-Wallets

• Boost - Cashback focused
• ShopeePay - For Shopee users
• BigPay - Good for foreigners, Mastercard included
• MAE by Maybank - Local bank wallet

BigPay (Recommended for Tourists)

Fintech app with physical Mastercard.

Benefits:

• No foreign transaction fees
• Competitive exchange rates
• Physical card for ATM/shops
• Easy top-up from foreign cards
• Works like local payment

QR Payments

Most e-wallets use DuitNow QR—a unified QR system.

• One QR code works with multiple wallets
• Look for DuitNow QR signs
• Scan, enter amount, pay

E-Wallet Tips

1. Download Touch 'n Go before arrival
2. Top up RM100-200 to start
3. Use for tolls and transport
4. Check for cashback promotions
5. Keep some cash backup

Budget Breakdown by Travel Style

Backpacker (RM100-150/day)

Mid-Range (RM250-400/day)

Luxury (RM600+/day)

Typical Prices

Food

Transport

Accommodation

Activities

Tipping is NOT Expected in Malaysia

Unlike Western countries, tipping is not part of Malaysian culture. Service charge is usually included.

General Rule

• No tipping required anywhere
• Service staff paid regular wages
• 10% service charge added at restaurants
• Tipping won't offend but isn't expected

By Situation

Restaurants

• Service charge (10%) usually included
• Check bill for "Service Charge" line
• If no service charge, round up if you wish
• Fine dining: Optional 5-10% for exceptional service

Hotels

• Porters: RM2-5 per bag (optional)
• Housekeeping: RM5-10/day (optional, appreciated)
• Concierge: RM10-20 for special help
• Room service: Usually included in bill

Taxis/Grab

• No tipping expected
• Round up fare if you wish
• Grab has in-app tipping (rarely used)

Hawker Stalls

• Never tip at hawker centers
• Would be unusual and confusing
• Just pay the stated price

Spas/Salons

• Usually no tipping
• High-end spas: RM10-20 optional
• Included in service charge typically

Tour Guides

• Group tours: RM10-20/person
• Private guides: RM50-100/day
• Drivers: RM20-50/day
• Most appreciated form of tipping

When Tipping Makes Sense

• Exceptional service beyond expectations
• Tour guides who go above and beyond
• Hotel staff who help with special requests
• Porters handling heavy luggage

How to Tip

• Cash preferred
• Hand directly to person
• Small bills (RM5, RM10)
• Say "terima kasih" (thank you)

Bottom line: Don't stress about tipping. It's genuinely optional and not expected.

Understanding Malaysian Taxes

Sales and Service Tax (SST)

• Sales Tax: 5-10% on goods
• Service Tax: 6% on services
• Usually included in displayed prices
• Restaurants add 6% service tax

Tourism Tax

• RM10/room/night for foreign tourists
• Applies to all accommodation types
• Charged at checkout
• Cannot be refunded

What You'll See on Bills

Tax-Free Shopping (GST Refund - Currently Suspended)

Malaysia previously had GST refund for tourists but this was suspended when GST was replaced with SST in 2018. Currently:

• No tourist tax refund scheme
• Prices include all applicable taxes
• What you see is what you pay

Duty-Free Shopping

Langkawi (Entire Island)

• Duty-free on alcohol, tobacco, chocolate
• Beer: RM5-8 (vs RM18-25 elsewhere)
• Spirits: 50-70% cheaper
• Chocolate: Significantly cheaper
• Electronics: Some savings

Tioman Island

• Similar duty-free status
• Smaller selection than Langkawi

Airport Duty-Free

• KLIA/KLIA2 departure halls
• Standard international duty-free
• Alcohol, tobacco, perfume, electronics
• Allowances apply for home country

Duty-Free Allowances (Entering Malaysia)

Saving Money on Taxes

1. Shop in Langkawi for alcohol/tobacco
2. Buy at duty-free before departure
3. Look for "price inclusive" signs
4. No need to calculate tax separately

Opening a Bank Account

For digital nomads, expats, or long-term visitors, a Malaysian bank account can be useful.

Who Can Open an Account

• MM2H visa holders (easiest)
• Employment Pass holders
• Student Pass holders
• Long-term visitors (difficult, varies by bank)

Tourist/Short-term Visitors

Generally cannot open accounts. Use alternatives:

• BigPay (fintech, easy signup)
• Wise (international transfers)
• Touch 'n Go eWallet
• GrabPay

Requirements for Account Opening

• Valid passport
• Valid visa (work/student/MM2H)
• Proof of address in Malaysia
• Reference letter (sometimes)
• Minimum deposit (RM250-500)

Major Banks

Digital Banks (Easier for Foreigners)

• BigPay - Fintech, easy signup, Mastercard
• GXBank - Digital bank, newer
• Boost - E-wallet with banking features

BigPay (Recommended)

Best option for tourists and short-term visitors.

Features:

• Sign up with passport
• Physical Mastercard delivered
• No foreign transaction fees
• Competitive exchange rates
• Top up from foreign cards
• ATM withdrawals

Setup:

1. Download BigPay app
2. Register with passport
3. Verify identity
4. Order physical card (RM15)
5. Top up and use

Wise (TransferWise)

For receiving/sending international transfers.

Features:

• Multi-currency account
• MYR account available
• Low transfer fees
• Debit card option
• Good for freelancers/remote workers

Money Transfer Options

Common Money Scams

Dynamic Currency Conversion (DCC)

The most common "legal" scam affecting tourists.

How it works:

• ATM/card machine offers to charge in your home currency
• Seems convenient but rate is terrible (3-7% worse)
• Always choose LOCAL CURRENCY (MYR)

Fake Money Changers

• Unlicensed changers with "too good" rates
• May shortchange you or give fake notes
• Only use licensed changers (look for license displayed)

ATM Skimming

• Devices attached to ATM card slots
• Cameras recording PIN entry
• Use ATMs inside banks/malls
• Cover PIN when entering
• Check for loose card slot

Taxi Overcharging

• "Meter broken" excuse
• Inflated flat rates
• Long routes
• Solution: Use Grab instead

Counterfeit Notes

• Rare but exists
• Check security features
• Refuse damaged/suspicious notes
• Get change from reputable places

Credit Card Fraud

• Card skimming at restaurants
• Keep card in sight during payment
• Check statements regularly
• Use contactless when possible

"Free Gift" Scams

• Offered free item, then pressured to buy
• Common at tourist spots
• Politely decline and walk away

Gem/Jewelry Scams

• "Special deal" on gems
• Fake or overpriced stones
• Only buy from reputable jewelers
• Get certification for expensive items

Safety Tips

1. Count money before leaving exchanger
2. Keep receipts
3. Use ATMs in secure locations
4. Don't flash large amounts of cash
5. Split money between wallet and hidden pouch
6. Use hotel safe for valuables
7. Check card statements daily
8. Have backup payment method

If You're Scammed

• Report to police (for insurance claims)
• Contact bank immediately for card fraud
• Keep all evidence
• Report to tourism hotline: 1-300-88-5050

Where Bargaining is Acceptable

Yes, Bargain Here:

• Night markets (pasar malam)
• Street vendors
• Small independent shops
• Tourist souvenir stalls
• Some electronics shops
• Taxi fares (if not using meter)

No, Don't Bargain:

• Malls and department stores
• Supermarkets
• Restaurants
• Hawker food stalls
• Convenience stores
• Branded shops
• Government services

Bargaining Etiquette

Do:

• Smile and be friendly
• Start at 50-60% of asking price
• Be prepared to walk away
• Show genuine interest
• Compliment the item
• Buy multiple items for better discount

Don't:

• Be aggressive or rude
• Bargain if you won't buy
• Insult the quality
• Get angry
• Bargain at food stalls
• Expect huge discounts at quality shops

Bargaining Phrases

Typical Discounts

Bargaining Strategy

1. Ask price casually
2. Show mild interest
3. Offer 50-60% of asking
4. Seller counters
5. Meet somewhere in middle
6. If no deal, start walking away
7. Often called back with better price
8. Shake hands when agreed

When Prices Are Fixed

• Price tags with barcodes
• "Fixed Price" signs
• Chain stores
• Malls
• Restaurants with menus

Remember: Bargaining should be fun, not stressful. A few ringgit difference isn't worth an argument.

Lost/Stolen Wallet

Immediate Steps:

1. Cancel cards immediately (call bank)
2. Report to police (for insurance)
3. Contact embassy if passport also lost
4. Use emergency cash (hidden backup)

Emergency Card Numbers

Getting Emergency Cash

Western Union

• Receive money from abroad
• Multiple locations in malls
• Need ID (passport copy may work)
• Fees apply

MoneyGram

• Similar to Western Union
• Available at post offices
• Need ID

Embassy Assistance

• Emergency loans (repayable)
• Help contacting family
• Replacement travel documents

Wise/PayPal

• If you have account, transfer to local contact
• They withdraw and give you cash

Card Blocked Abroad

Why It Happens:

• Unusual foreign transactions
• Security algorithms triggered
• Didn't notify bank of travel

Prevention:

• Notify bank before travel
• Set travel notice in app
• Have backup card from different bank
• Know bank's international number

If Blocked:

• Call bank's international line
• Verify identity
• Request unblock
• May take 24-48 hours

Running Low on Money

Quick Solutions:

• ATM withdrawal (if cards work)
• Money transfer from home
• Sell unused items (phones, electronics)
• Contact embassy for emergency loan

Budget Survival Mode:

Important Contacts

• Tourist Police: 03-2166 8322
• Tourism Hotline: 1-300-88-5050
• Your Embassy: (save number)
• Bank International Line: (save before travel)

Prevention Tips

1. Carry backup card from different bank
2. Keep emergency cash hidden separately
3. Have digital copies of all documents
4. Know embassy location
5. Have travel insurance with emergency coverage
6. Share itinerary with family
7. Keep small amount in hotel safe

Money Matters Vary Across Malaysia

Malaysia isn't uniform when it comes to money—what works in KL might not fly in rural Kelantan. Understanding regional differences helps you prepare appropriately and avoid awkward situations.

Kuala Lumpur & Selangor

The most developed payment ecosystem in Malaysia. You can go nearly cashless here.

• E-wallets accepted almost everywhere, including many hawker stalls
• Credit cards work at 95%+ of establishments
• ATMs on every corner, inside every mall
• Money changers offer best rates in the country
• Premium services and luxury options abundant
• Prices slightly higher than other states (10-20%)

Penang

Tourist-friendly with good payment infrastructure, but more traditional than KL.

• George Town heritage area: Mix of cash and card
• Hawker centers: Mostly cash, some e-wallets
• Hotels and restaurants: Cards widely accepted
• Money changers: Good rates in Komtar and tourist areas
• Prices: Moderate, good value for food

Langkawi (Duty-Free Island)

Unique status affects pricing and payments.

• Duty-free: Alcohol, tobacco, chocolate significantly cheaper
• Cash preferred at smaller shops
• Cards accepted at resorts and larger establishments
• ATMs available but fewer than mainland
• Prices: Lower for duty-free items, similar for others
• No sales tax on most goods

East Coast (Terengganu, Kelantan, Pahang)

More conservative and traditional, especially in Kelantan.

• Cash is king—many places don't accept cards
• E-wallet adoption slower than west coast
• Fewer ATMs in rural areas
• Money changers rare outside major towns
• Prices: Generally 20-30% lower than KL
• Kelantan: Some businesses close on Friday (prayer day)

Sabah & Sarawak (East Malaysia)

Different banking landscape with some unique considerations.

• Major towns (KK, Kuching): Good card acceptance
• Rural areas: Cash essential
• ATMs: Available in towns, scarce in remote areas
• Prices: Similar to Peninsular for most items
• Some local banks not found in Peninsular
• Island resorts: Often card-only or cash-only (check ahead)

Cameron Highlands & Hill Stations

Tourist areas with decent infrastructure but some gaps.

• Main towns: Cards accepted at hotels, restaurants
• Farms and small stalls: Cash only
• ATMs: Available in Tanah Rata, Brinchang
• Prices: Slightly inflated for tourists
• Weekend crowds mean ATM queues

Border Towns (Johor Bahru, Padang Besar)

Unique dynamics due to cross-border trade.

• JB: Singapore dollars sometimes accepted
• Multiple currencies in circulation
• Money changers: Competitive rates for SGD
• Prices: Can be quoted in SGD or MYR
• Weekend influx affects availability

Rural Malaysia

Anywhere outside major towns requires preparation.

• Cash only in most situations
• Nearest ATM might be 30+ minutes away
• No money changers
• Prices: Often cheaper but no negotiation expected
• Mobile signal may be weak (no e-wallet)

Practical Tips by Region

Before Leaving Major Cities:

1. Withdraw enough cash for your rural itinerary
2. Don't rely on finding ATMs
3. Carry smaller denominations (RM10, RM20)
4. Inform your bank of travel to remote areas
5. Have backup payment method ready

Frequently Asked Questions About Money in Malaysia

Q: Should I exchange money before arriving in Malaysia?

A: Exchange a small amount (USD 50-100 equivalent) for immediate needs like transport from airport. Malaysian money changers offer much better rates than your home country. Airport rates in Malaysia are reasonable for small amounts.

Q: What's the best currency to bring?

A: US Dollars, Singapore Dollars, Euros, British Pounds, and Australian Dollars get the best rates. Bring clean, undamaged notes—torn or marked bills may be rejected. Newer series notes are preferred.

Q: Can I use US Dollars directly in Malaysia?

A: No, Malaysian Ringgit is the only accepted currency. Some tourist areas might accept USD at poor rates, but it's not standard practice. Always exchange to MYR.

Q: How much cash should I carry daily?

A: For cities: RM100-200 is sufficient with card backup. For rural areas: RM300-500 depending on planned expenses. Never carry more than you need for the day.

Q: Are there fake notes in circulation?

A: Counterfeits exist but are rare. Check security features on larger notes (RM50, RM100). Avoid exchanging money with individuals on the street. Use licensed money changers only.

Q: What if an ATM eats my card?

A: Contact the bank immediately (number on ATM). If it's your bank's ATM, they may retrieve it. Foreign cards usually require your home bank to issue a replacement. This is why backup cards are essential.

Q: Can I open a bank account as a tourist?

A: Generally no. Bank accounts require valid long-term visa (work permit, student visa, MM2H). Tourists should use BigPay or Wise for local payment options.

Q: Is it safe to use ATMs at night?

A: Use ATMs inside banks, malls, or well-lit convenience stores. Avoid standalone ATMs in isolated areas. 24-hour ATM lobbies at banks are generally safe.

Q: Do I need to declare cash when entering Malaysia?

A: Yes, if carrying more than RM30,000 (or equivalent in foreign currency). Declare at customs to avoid confiscation. Keep receipts for large amounts.

Q: What's the deal with the RM100 note?

A: It's the largest denomination and can be hard to break at small shops. Many hawkers and small vendors can't provide change. Try to use RM100 notes at supermarkets, hotels, or larger restaurants.

Q: How do I avoid card fraud?

A: Use contactless payments when possible. Never let your card out of sight. Check statements daily. Use cards with fraud protection. Set up transaction alerts on your banking app.

Q: Can I get a tax refund as a tourist?

A: Currently no tourist tax refund scheme exists in Malaysia. The GST refund program was suspended in 2018. Prices include all applicable taxes.

Q: What's the best way to split bills with travel companions?

A: Use Wise or similar apps to track and settle expenses. Touch 'n Go allows transfers between users. Cash splitting works but keep a running tally.

Q: Are there any hidden fees I should know about?

A: Tourism tax (RM10/night) at hotels. Service charge (10%) at restaurants. Some ATMs charge RM12+ per withdrawal. Dynamic Currency Conversion adds 3-7% if you accept it.

Q: How do I handle money for a multi-week trip?

A: Mix of strategies: Bring some cash to exchange, use ATM withdrawals as needed, have 2-3 cards from different banks, set up Touch 'n Go and GrabPay for daily expenses.

Q: What if I'm overcharged?

A: Politely question the charge. Ask for itemized receipt. For serious issues, contact Tourism Malaysia hotline (1-300-88-5050). Keep receipts for disputes.

Common Payment Problems & Solutions

Card Declined at POS Terminal

Possible Causes:

• Bank blocked international transaction
• Insufficient funds
• Card not activated for overseas use
• Chip/magnetic stripe damaged
• Terminal malfunction

Solutions:

1. Try contactless/tap payment instead
2. Request manual card entry
3. Try a different terminal
4. Call bank to authorize transaction
5. Use backup card or cash

Prevention:

• Notify bank of travel dates and destinations
• Enable international transactions in banking app
• Test card at ATM first upon arrival
• Carry cards from multiple banks

E-Wallet Won't Work

Touch 'n Go Issues:

• Insufficient balance: Top up via app or at convenience stores
• App not updated: Download latest version
• Phone NFC not working: Restart phone, check NFC settings
• QR code not scanning: Ensure good lighting, clean camera lens
• Account suspended: Contact TnG support

GrabPay Issues:

• Payment method expired: Update card details
• Verification required: Complete in-app verification
• Region restrictions: Some features limited for foreign accounts

ATM Problems

Card Not Accepted:

• Try different ATM brand (Maybank, CIMB, Public Bank)
• Check if card has international withdrawal enabled
• Ensure card isn't expired
• Try magnetic stripe if chip fails

Wrong Amount Dispensed:

• Do not leave ATM
• Take receipt
• Contact bank immediately
• File dispute with your bank
• Report to ATM owner bank

Transaction Failed But Money Deducted:

• Keep receipt/transaction record
• Wait 24 hours (often auto-reverses)
• Contact your bank with details
• File dispute if not resolved

Money Changer Issues

Rate Changed After Agreeing:

• Confirm rate before handing over money
• Get rate in writing if large amount
• Walk away if they change terms
• Report to authorities if fraudulent

Received Wrong Amount:

• Count money before leaving counter
• Recount in front of staff if discrepancy
• Don't leave until resolved
• Licensed changers have CCTV

Notes Rejected:

• Bring clean, undamaged notes
• Newer series preferred
• Small tears may be accepted at lower rate
• Try different money changer

Restaurant/Shop Payment Issues

Bill Seems Wrong:

• Request itemized receipt
• Check for service charge (10%) and SST (6%)
• Verify prices match menu
• Question any unclear charges politely

Card Machine "Not Working":

• Common excuse to get cash payment
• Ask to try again or use different machine
• Offer exact cash if available
• Large establishments should have working machines

Online Payment Problems

Malaysian Sites Rejecting Foreign Cards:

• Some sites only accept Malaysian cards
• Try PayPal if available
• Use Wise virtual card
• Ask hotel to book on your behalf

3D Secure/OTP Not Received:

• Check international roaming for SMS
• Use authenticator app if set up
• Contact bank for alternative verification
• Have backup payment ready

Emergency Workarounds

No Cash, No Working Cards:

• GrabPay can link to some international cards
• Ask hotel to charge room and pay later
• Western Union/MoneyGram from family
• Embassy emergency assistance

Phone Dead (No E-Wallet Access):

• Always carry some physical cash
• Physical Touch 'n Go card works without phone
• Credit cards don't need phone
• Charge phone at any mall/cafe

Reporting Issues

For Card Fraud:

• Your bank's fraud hotline (save number)
• Malaysian police report for insurance
• Card network (Visa/Mastercard) if bank unresponsive

For Scams/Overcharging:

• Tourism Malaysia: 1-300-88-5050
• Consumer complaints: 1-800-886-800
• Police report for significant amounts

For Lost Items:

• Police report within 24 hours
• Keep report number for insurance
• Cancel cards immediately
• Contact embassy if passport involved

Must-Have Apps for Managing Money in Malaysia

Payment & E-Wallet Apps

Touch 'n Go eWallet (Essential)

The most widely accepted e-wallet in Malaysia.

• Download: iOS and Android
• Setup: Register with phone number, verify ID
• Top-up: Credit card, bank transfer, convenience stores
• Uses: Transit, tolls, parking, retail, hawkers
• Tourist tip: Works with foreign phone numbers but some features limited

GrabPay

Integrated with Southeast Asia's super app.

• Download: Part of Grab app
• Setup: Link credit card or top up wallet
• Uses: Rides, food delivery, retail payments
• Tourist tip: Your existing Grab account works in Malaysia

BigPay (Highly Recommended for Tourists)

Fintech solution designed for travelers.

• Download: iOS and Android
• Setup: Register with passport, order physical card
• Features: No foreign transaction fees, competitive rates
• Card: Physical Mastercard for ATM and retail
• Top-up: International credit cards accepted
• Tourist tip: Best option for tourists wanting local payment capability

Banking & Transfer Apps

Wise (Formerly TransferWise)

Best for international transfers and multi-currency.

• Features: Real exchange rate, low fees, multi-currency account
• MYR Account: Available for receiving payments
• Card: Debit card with great rates
• Use case: Digital nomads, receiving payments, transfers home

Revolut

Alternative to Wise with similar features.

• Features: Multi-currency, budgeting tools, crypto
• Exchange: Good rates for major currencies
• Card: Virtual and physical options
• Use case: Budget tracking, multiple currency needs

Your Home Bank App

Don't forget your existing banking app.

• Enable: International transactions, travel notifications
• Set up: Transaction alerts, spending limits
• Save: International support numbers
• Check: Daily for unauthorized transactions

Currency & Budgeting Apps

XE Currency

Real-time exchange rates.

• Features: Rate alerts, historical charts, offline mode
• Use: Check rates before exchanging money
• Tip: Set alerts for favorable rates

Trail Wallet

Travel budget tracking.

• Features: Daily budgets, expense categories, trip summaries
• Use: Track spending against daily budget
• Tip: Log expenses immediately to stay accurate

Splitwise

Split expenses with travel companions.

• Features: Group expenses, multiple currencies, settle up
• Use: Track who owes what
• Tip: Settle in local currency to avoid conversion confusion

Booking & Deals Apps

Fave

Restaurant and service deals.

• Features: Up to 50% off dining, spa, activities
• Payment: In-app payment with cashback
• Tip: Check before dining out for deals

ShopBack

Cashback on online purchases.

• Features: Cashback at partner stores, price comparison
• Use: Book hotels, shop online through app
• Tip: Combine with credit card rewards

Klook

Activity and attraction bookings.

• Features: Discounted tickets, instant confirmation
• Payment: International cards accepted
• Tip: Often 10-20% cheaper than walk-up prices

Practical App Setup Checklist

Before arriving:

• [ ] Download Touch 'n Go eWallet
• [ ] Ensure Grab is installed and payment method added
• [ ] Download BigPay and order card (if time allows)
• [ ] Set up Wise account for transfers
• [ ] Download XE Currency for rate checking
• [ ] Enable international transactions on bank app
• [ ] Save bank's international support number

Upon arrival:

• [ ] Register Touch 'n Go with local SIM
• [ ] Top up e-wallets with initial amount
• [ ] Test payment at convenience store
• [ ] Verify ATM card works

App Storage Tip

These apps don't take much space. Download all before travel—you never know which you'll need. Better to have and not need than need and not have (especially with spotty rural internet).