Malaysia travel money tips
Heading to Malaysia? Here's a quick rundown of how to handle money on the ground — tipping etiquette, when to use cards versus cash, the best ATMs to use, and the most common pitfalls travelers run into. The local currency is the Malaysian Ringgit (MYR, RM).
Tipping
Not expected. Restaurants add a 10% service charge plus 6% SST. Round up taxi fares.
Cards vs cash
Cards in malls and chain restaurants. Cash and Touch 'n Go eWallet at hawker stalls and markets.
Payment methods accepted
ATMs & cash tip
Maybank, CIMB, and Public Bank ATMs are reliable. Most charge RM10–12 for foreign cards.
Heads-up
- Use Grab instead of street taxis in Kuala Lumpur and Penang — many street meters 'don't work'.
- Some tourist-area money changers post a 'buy' rate and quietly use a worse 'sell' rate at the till — confirm the final amount.
About the Malaysian Ringgit (MYR)
The Malaysian Ringgit (MYR, symbol RM) is the official currency of Malaysia. Knowing the live MYR rate against your home currency helps you sanity-check menu prices, taxi fares, and souvenir markups while traveling.
More travel tips
See all country tips →Tips are general guidance for travelers, not legal or financial advice. Customs vary — confirm with local sources for important plans.