Most common payment methods in Malaysia

@Cheryl

What are the most common payment methods today in Malaysia: cash, debit/credit cards, bank transfers, mobile apps or digital wallets?

Nowadays, cards, online bank transfers, mobile apps, and digital wallets are commonly used. It is now quite rare to use cash in many places.

Is contactless payment (card, phone, smartwatch) widely accepted?

Yes, cards and phones are widely accepted for contactless payments. However, I’m not sure about smartwatches here in Malaysia, as I haven’t seen many people using them for payments yet.

Is there a popular local payment app that everyone uses?

I’ve seen MAE and TNG eWallet being used for payments everywhere.

Do you still need to carry cash for small shops, markets, taxis or administrative services?

Yes, as some shops still don’t accept cards or online payments, so it’s still useful to carry some cash.

Credit cards, debit cards, ewallets eg Touch and go, Grab wallet etc  Never see cash payments in KL!

I always use Sampay linked to local credit cards,  for shop spending.

Grab for taxis - use the ewallet.