Travelling overseas is always exciting, especially when there are new places to explore, local dishes to try and shopping streets filled with interesting finds. However, managing money while travelling can sometimes be a little troublesome. Carrying too much cash is not always convenient, while exchanging currencies and downloading different payment apps can take extra time before a holiday even begins.
Fortunately, Malaysians have another payment option to look forward to. From 28 October 2026, eligible customers of participating Malaysian banks can use supported mobile banking apps to scan participating merchants’ Alipay+ QR codes in five overseas destinations: China, Hong Kong, South Korea, the Philippines and Laos.
This cross-border payment service offers a more convenient way to pay for everyday purchases while travelling. Instead of setting up a separate Alipay+ account, eligible travellers can use their existing Malaysian banking apps, provided they have access to the supported QR payment feature.
For Malaysians who enjoy shopping holidays, food adventures and exploring new destinations, this development could make overseas spending simpler. It is also worth understanding how the service works before packing your bags, so you can make the most of this convenient payment option without overlooking exchange rates or possible transaction fees.
Which Malaysian Banks Support Overseas DuitNow QR Payments?
The initial rollout covers eligible customers of three Malaysian banks: Maybank, CIMB Bank and Hong Leong Bank.
Here is what travellers should know before using the service.
1. Maybank
Eligible Maybank customers can use supported QR payment features through the MAE app. This may be particularly useful for travellers who already use MAE for everyday payments in Malaysia and prefer to continue using a familiar banking app overseas.
Before departing, customers should check their app settings and Maybank’s latest announcements to confirm that the relevant overseas QR payment function is available.
2. CIMB Bank
Eligible CIMB Bank customers can check their mobile banking app for the supported QR payment function. Travellers should review the bank’s instructions before leaving Malaysia to understand how to activate or access the service and what transaction conditions apply.
3. Hong Leong Bank
Eligible Hong Leong Bank customers can also use the bank’s supported mobile banking payment service, subject to availability and applicable requirements. Checking the latest bank guidance in advance can help avoid confusion when making a purchase abroad.
Bank Islam has also been mentioned as a potential future participant. However, travellers should wait for an official announcement from the bank before assuming that the service is available to them.
As participation and eligibility may vary, it is best to confirm the latest information directly with the relevant bank before relying on overseas QR payments.
Five Destinations Where Malaysians Can Use DuitNow QR
One of the most useful features of this cross-border payment development is the range of destinations covered. Whether the next holiday involves exploring busy shopping districts, enjoying local food or picking up souvenirs, QR payments could offer an additional way to settle purchases.
China: A Convenient Option for Shopping Trips
China is a popular destination for travellers who enjoy shopping, sightseeing and discovering local food. From bustling commercial areas to smaller participating retail outlets, having access to a familiar Malaysian banking app could make some purchases easier.
Eligible travellers can look for participating merchants displaying Alipay+ QR codes. However, not every shop or QR code in China will necessarily support this payment arrangement, so checking the merchant’s acceptance before paying remains important.
Hong Kong: Shop, Eat and Explore
Hong Kong offers plenty of opportunities for spending, whether browsing shopping centres, enjoying local street food or buying gifts for family and friends.
A supported QR payment option may provide greater flexibility when visiting participating shops and eateries. Rather than relying exclusively on cash, travellers can use their eligible banking apps for purchases at merchants that accept the service.
South Korea: More Flexibility for Café and Shopping Visits
South Korea is a favourite destination for visitors interested in fashion, beauty products, cafés and local cuisine. Shopping streets and trendy neighbourhoods can easily become part of a travel itinerary.
For eligible Malaysian travellers, being able to scan participating Alipay+ QR codes could provide another convenient way to pay while exploring the country. It is still sensible to carry a payment card or some local currency for businesses that do not accept the service.
The Philippines: Another Cashless Payment Option
Malaysians travelling to the Philippines can also benefit from this payment arrangement at participating merchants. Whether shopping, dining or purchasing everyday items, supported QR payments may offer an alternative to carrying cash for every transaction.
Acceptance is not universal, so travellers should look for the appropriate Alipay+ branding and confirm that the merchant supports payments through their Malaysian banking app.
Laos: Convenient Payments While Exploring
For those planning a trip to Laos, the additional payment option may make purchases at participating shops and restaurants more convenient.
As with the other destinations, the service should be treated as an additional payment method rather than a replacement for every other form of payment. Checking acceptance before ordering or shopping can help make transactions smoother.
How to Pay Using DuitNow QR Overseas
The payment process is designed to be straightforward for eligible customers. Once the service is available through their supported banking app, travellers can follow these general steps.
- Look for the Alipay+ logo. Check whether the shop, restaurant or other merchant accepts participating Alipay+ QR payments.
- Open the Malaysian banking app. Select the supported DuitNow QR or QR payment function.
- Scan the merchant’s QR code. Use the app to scan the displayed payment code.
- Review the transaction details. Check the merchant’s name, payment amount and any displayed currency conversion information.
- Confirm the payment. Authorise the transaction through the banking app and wait for confirmation before leaving the counter.
The main advantage is that eligible customers do not need to create a separate Alipay+ account just to use this supported payment arrangement.
Nevertheless, the precise steps and available features may differ between banks. Travellers should follow their bank’s official instructions and avoid scanning unfamiliar QR codes that could lead to fraudulent payment requests.
Smart Money-Saving Tips Before Travelling
Although the service offers convenience, smart travellers should remember that an easier payment method does not automatically mean a cheaper purchase.
Check the exchange rate first. Prices displayed overseas will normally be in the local currency. The final amount charged in Malaysian ringgit may differ because of currency conversion. Review the rate shown in the app, where available, before confirming the transaction.
Understand possible fees. Contact the relevant bank to check whether foreign transaction charges, service fees or other costs apply. Even small charges can add up when making frequent purchases throughout a holiday.
Update your banking app. Install any required updates before leaving Malaysia and ensure you can log in successfully. Check that your phone can access the internet when needed and understand the bank’s security or verification requirements.
Keep a backup payment method. Carry some local cash and a suitable payment card. A participating QR code may not be available at every business, and your phone could run out of battery or lose its internet connection.
Protect your banking details. Always verify the merchant’s name and amount before authorising a payment. Never share your banking PIN or one-time password with anyone, and contact your bank promptly if you notice a suspicious transaction.
These simple precautions can help travellers enjoy the convenience of cashless payments while keeping their holiday budget under control.
Why Should Malaysians Take Advantage of This New Payment Option?
The introduction of cross-border DuitNow QR payments is welcome news for Malaysians who regularly travel overseas. Having another way to pay through a familiar banking app can reduce the need to juggle several payment applications or establish additional accounts just for a holiday.
It could be particularly useful for people visiting several of the participating destinations, as well as travellers who prefer to have multiple payment options available. From shopping for souvenirs in Hong Kong to enjoying a café visit in South Korea, the service offers added flexibility wherever participating merchants accept it.
There is also a practical benefit for budget-conscious travellers. By checking conversion rates and charges before confirming purchases, shoppers can make more informed spending decisions instead of discovering unexpected costs after returning home.
However, it is important to remember that this is a payment convenience rather than a discount or cashback campaign. There is no guaranteed saving simply from scanning a QR code, and the service does not mean every merchant in the five destinations will accept it.
Before travelling, Malaysians should review the latest information from their banks and PayNet to confirm eligibility, supported payment functions and any applicable terms.
For further information, visit the official PayNet website: https://paynet.my/
Final Thoughts
The ability to use supported Malaysian banking apps for participating Alipay+ QR payments in China, Hong Kong, South Korea, the Philippines and Laos is a useful development for overseas travellers. Starting from 28 October 2026, eligible customers of Maybank, CIMB Bank and Hong Leong Bank can explore this additional payment option without needing to set up a separate Alipay+ account.
For anyone planning an overseas shopping trip or holiday, it is worth checking whether their bank supports the service before departure. Just remember to compare exchange rates, check possible fees and keep cash or a payment card as a backup.
With a little preparation, travellers can spend less time worrying about how to pay and more time enjoying the places, food and shopping experiences that make a holiday memorable.
SEO Title: Malaysians Can Now Use DuitNow QR in 5 Countries via Alipay+
Meta Description: From 28 October 2026, eligible Maybank, CIMB and Hong Leong Bank customers can use supported banking apps to scan Alipay+ QR codes in China, Hong Kong, South Korea, the Philippines and Laos.
Promotional/Event Details
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Date: From 28 October 2026 onwards
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Time: Available according to participating merchants’ operating hours and bank service availability
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Venue: Participating Alipay+ merchants in China, Hong Kong, South Korea, the Philippines and Laos
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Participating Banks: Maybank, CIMB Bank and Hong Leong Bank, subject to eligibility and service availability
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Payment Method: Supported Malaysian mobile banking apps with the relevant QR payment function
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Official Website: https://paynet.my/
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