Is it possible to use Alipay/WeChat in Malaysia?

The feasibility of using Alipay and WeChat Pay in Malaysia depends on the specific scenario, which is analysed in detail below:

1. Alipay

• suitability::

  • Tourism Hot Spots/Major Merchants: Alipay is usually supported by shopping malls, chain shops (e.g. 711, KK Mart), duty free shops or merchants frequented by Chinese tourists in popular tourist areas such as Kuala Lumpur, Penang and Genting.
  • online payment: Some Malaysian e-commerce platforms (e.g. Lazada, Shopee) may support Alipay, but you need to confirm the settlement currency (usually RM automatic conversion).
  • constraintLocal people need to bind a Chinese bank card to register, while foreigners can use the overseas version of Alipay+ (some functions are restricted).

• Exchange rates and handling fees::
  Direct billing in RMB, exchange rate provided by Alipay, may include a small exchange fee.

2. WeChat Pay (WeChat Pay)

• suitability::

  • The coverage is narrower, focusing mainly on merchants with business dealings with China (e.g. Chinese restaurants, travel agencies).
  • Locals need to bind a Chinese bank card to enable the wallet function.

• point of attention: Not as popular as paypal in most cases.

3. Visa/Mastercard comparison

• cutting edge: Universal, especially suitable for small merchants or transport systems in non-touristy areas. It is recommended to pair it with a credit card that is free of currency conversion fees.
• inferior: Some small shops may accept cash only.

4. TNG eWallet (Local Alternatives Programme)

If you live in Malaysia for a long time:

• TNG eWallet is a mainstream local e-wallet that can be recharged and then scanned to pay for parking fees, convenience store purchases and more.
• Registration Requirements: Local mobile phone number and bank account required.

Summary of recommendations

1. Short-term travel.
✅ Carry a small amount of cash + Alipay (backup) + Visa card
❌ Don't rely on WeChat Payments

2. Permanent residence.
⚠️ Prioritising local bank accounts and enabling TNG eWallet

5. Local electronic payment alternatives (supplemental)

Apart from TNG eWallet, there are other popular payment methods in Malaysia that are suitable for long term residents or frequent transaction users:

a) GrabPay

• Applicable Scenarios: Grab taxi, takeaway (GrabFood), partner merchants (e.g. restaurant chains, supermarkets).
• cutting edge: Seamlessly integrated with the Grab ecosystem, coupons are often offered.
• Recharge Method: Bind a local bank card or cash top-up point.

b) Boost

• Coverage: Widely accepted in retail shops, petrol stations (Petronas), cinemas, etc.
• Featured Functions: You can pay utility bills, mobile phone bills, and support P2P transfers.

c) Maybank QRPay / DuitNow QR

• Malaysia's national QR code standard (DuitNow), almost all banks' e-wallets support scanning code interchanges.
• A local bank account is required for use.

6. Importance of cash

Even with the popularity of electronic payments, cash is still required in some scenarios:
⚠️ Night markets/vendors ⚠️ Rural areas ⚠️ Taxis (non-Grab) ⚠️ Temple donations etc.

It is recommended to carry at least RM50 to RM100 as a backup.

7. Alipay+/WeChat Pay Offshore Update (updated in 2024)

1. Alipay+ has partnered with a number of Malay banks (e.g. Maybank) and can be used by some merchants by displaying the Alipay+ logo (better exchange rate).
2. WeChat Pay MY version launched as a pilot, but registration is limited to local users, foreigners are still restricted.

8. Tips for optimising fees

1️⃣Alipay: Try to choose "MYR Settlement" (if supported by the merchant) to avoid direct conversion loss of RMB.
2️⃣ Credit Cards: Use a card with no foreign exchange conversion fee (e.g. Wise/Revolut or Malaysian Domestic Card).
3️⃣ Exchange Cash: Downtown Money Changer exchange rates are usually better than the airport by 30% or more.

Final Decision Guide

If there are other specific needs (e.g. online shopping preferences/cross-border remittances), the advice can be further refined!