Exploring Malaysia Cashlessly: How Tourists Can Use Touch ‘n Go eWallet for Seamless QR Payments

Travelling to Malaysia just became simpler for tourists eager to immerse themselves in its vibrant culture, bustling markets, and delectable street food! As of May 2025, international visitors from ASEAN countries—Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam—can now register for the Touch ‘n Go (TNG) eWallet, Malaysia’s leading digital payment platform, to make convenient QR code payments at over 2 million merchants nationwide. With plans to expand to non-ASEAN countries like China, South Korea, Hong Kong, Taiwan, and Japan soon, this is a game-changer for travellers seeking a hassle-free, cashless experience. Here’s everything you need to know to make the most of TNG eWallet on your Malaysian adventure!

Why Use Touch ‘n Go eWallet in Malaysia?

Malaysia is moving swiftly towards a cashless society, and the TNG eWallet is central to this shift. For tourists, it’s a practical way to pay without the fuss of cash or exchange rate worries. Whether you’re savouring satay at a hawker stall, shopping for souvenirs in Kuala Lumpur’s lively markets, or using public transport, TNG eWallet ensures quick, secure, and seamless transactions. Here’s why it’s a must-have for travellers:

• Widespread Acceptance: Pay at over 2 million merchant touchpoints, from Michelin-starred restaurants to local food stalls, convenience stores, shopping centres, and tourist attractions. It’s also compatible with DuitNow QR, Malaysia’s interoperable payment network, covering more than 2.5 million touchpoints.

• No Cash Hassle: Avoid the stress of carrying large amounts of cash or dealing with currency exchange. Small vendors, like hawkers, often don’t accept cards, making TNG eWallet invaluable.

• Versatile Uses: Beyond shopping, use it for public transport, parking, tolls (via linked TNG cards), and even online purchases on platforms like Lazada.

• International Flexibility: Through partnerships like Alipay+, TNG eWallet supports QR payments in over 40 countries, including China, Japan, Singapore, and Thailand, with competitive exchange rates and a 1% conversion fee for overseas transactions.

How to Get Started with TNG eWallet as a Tourist

Setting up TNG eWallet is straightforward, and you don’t need a Malaysian phone number to begin. Follow these simple steps to join Malaysia’s cashless revolution:

1. Download the App: Get the TNG eWallet app from the Google Play Store, Apple App Store, or Huawei AppGallery.

2. Register as a Tourist: Open the app, select “Register as a Tourist,” and provide your international phone number and passport details (valid for at least six months). Verification codes are sent via WhatsApp, so no local SIM is needed.

3. Top Up Your Wallet: Add funds using a credit or debit card issued by banks in your home country. Note that a fee of up to 2.6% may apply for non-Malaysian card top-ups. You can also use global remittance services or reload PINs.

4. Start Paying: Scan a merchant’s QR code or display your own QR code for them to scan. For online purchases, select TNG eWallet at checkout on supported platforms.

Pro Tip: Check your wallet tier (Lite, Pro, or Premium) as the Lite tier has a 200 MYR cap, which may limit frequent users. Upgrade via the app for higher limits if needed.

Top Ways to Use TNG eWallet While Travelling in Malaysia

The TNG eWallet is your key to exploring Malaysia like a local. Here are some practical ways to use it:

• Street Food & Hawker Stalls: Enjoy Malaysia’s culinary delights at places like Jalan Alor in Kuala Lumpur or Gurney Drive in Penang. Many hawkers now accept TNG QR payments, perfect for cash-only spots.

• Public Transport: Pay for buses, MRT, or LRT rides in cities like Kuala Lumpur. Link an Enhanced TNG card for seamless tap-and-go payments at transit points.

• Shopping & Attractions: From luxury shopping centres like Pavilion KL to iconic sites like Petronas Towers’ gift shops, use TNG eWallet for souvenirs and entry fees.

• Parking & Tolls: Link your TNG card to the app for PayDirect to auto-deduct parking or toll fees, ideal for road-trippers crossing Malaysia’s motorways.

• Online Shopping: Shop on e-commerce platforms like Lazada or book cinema tickets with TNG eWallet for a smooth digital experience.

Bonus: You can also contribute to local causes by scanning QR codes at NGOs, temples, or mosques, adding a meaningful touch to your travels.

Tips for Tourists Using TNG eWallet

To ensure a smooth experience, keep these tips in mind:

• Top Up in Advance: Reload your wallet before heading to areas with limited internet to avoid payment issues.

• Check for Fees: Be aware of the 2.6% reload fee for foreign cards and the 1% conversion fee for overseas QR payments in supported countries.

• Link a Visa Card: For added flexibility, apply for a TNG Visa prepaid card through the app to use your eWallet balance globally wherever Visa is accepted, including cashpoint withdrawals.

• Monitor Exchange Rates: When paying abroad, the app displays real-time exchange rates for transparency, so you know exactly what you’re spending.

• Stay Updated: Visit the official TNG eWallet website (www.touchngo.com.my) for the latest features and supported countries.

Why This Matters for Travellers

The ability to use TNG eWallet as a tourist aligns with Malaysia’s push for smart tourism and a cashless economy. It eliminates common travel frustrations like card rejections or cashpoint withdrawal limits, letting you focus on soaking in Malaysia’s vibrant sights, sounds, and flavours. Plus, it supports local businesses, especially small vendors, by enabling digital payments where cards aren’t accepted.

As TNG eWallet expands to more countries, it’s set to become an essential travel companion for globetrotters. Whether you’re exploring Kuala Lumpur’s skyline, Penang’s street art, or Malacca’s historic charm, TNG eWallet ensures you can pay with ease and confidence.

Top Photo: Touch 'n Go