A partnership between Payments Network Malaysia Sdn Bhd (PayNet) and Ant International has boosted cross-border transactions for visitors, with Alipay+ now contributing more than 80% of inbound QR payments via DuitNow. Alipay+ says this growing integration is enhancing the travel experience, making it easier for international visitors to pay with their home apps while exploring Malaysia’s cultural and natural attractions.
Since its launch on DuitNow QR in October 2023, Alipay+ has supported payment accessibility for travellers. The number of Alipay+ payment partners integrated into the system has more than doubled to 15, covering popular platforms from countries such as China, Thailand, Singapore, South Korea, the Philippines, and even Italy and Kazakhstan. This expansion means that visitors from 10 countries and regions can now make purchases at over 2.5 million DuitNow QR-enabled merchants, simply by scanning a QR code with their preferred payment app.
This has also led to significant growth in transaction volume. In 2024, Alipay+ transactions on DuitNow QR increased by an average of 50% quarter-on-quarter, culminating in a sixfold revenue growth for Malaysian merchants during the peak travel season in December 2024 compared to the previous year.
Data from Alipay+ transactions reveal that visitors are particularly drawn to food-related spending. Traditional coffee shops (kopitiams), bakeries, and stalls selling iconic dishes such as bak kut teh and satay have seen high transaction volumes. Bars and cocktail lounges are also popular, reinforcing Malaysia’s reputation as a destination for both traditional and modern culinary delights.
Beyond food, travellers are flocking to cultural and historical attractions. According to Alipay+, the Baba & Nonya Heritage Museum and the Sun Yat Sen Museum are among the top-visited sites, as visitors seek to explore Malaysia’s rich multicultural history. Seamless digital payments allow tourists to conveniently purchase entry tickets and souvenirs without the hassle of currency exchange or carrying cash.
Malaysia’s natural attractions are also seeing an increase in visitors. Outdoor activities such as diving, fishing, and adventure sports have surged in popularity. Data suggests that travellers are frequenting sporting and recreation camps, while wellness tourism is on the rise, with massage parlors, beauty salons, and fitness centers recording strong transaction numbers.
Additionally, digital payments are enhancing the overall travel experience by simplifying day-to-day transactions, says Alipay+. Convenience stores, supermarkets, pharmacies, and vending machines are among the highest transaction points for visitors, allowing them to shop as they navigate Malaysia’s cities and tourist hotspots.
The integration of Alipay+ into Malaysia’s payment ecosystem aligns with the country’s broader tourism goals. In 2024, Malaysia welcomed over 25 million visitors, with a target of 35.6 million for the Visit Malaysia 2026 campaign. This initiative aims to position Malaysia as one of the top global travel destinations, emphasising accessibility, cultural richness, and seamless visitor experiences.
Alipay+’s data reveals that the cities seeing the most inbound transactions reflect Malaysia’s key tourist destinations. Kuala Lumpur, Malacca, Penang, Johor Bahru, and Kota Kinabalu are among the top locations where visitors are actively spending, indicating strong interest in Malaysia’s urban and coastal attractions.
With cross-border payment adoption rising, PayNet and Ant International are aiming to expand their partnership to further integrate international travelers into Malaysia’s payment landscape. Efforts include increasing merchant connectivity, launching marketing campaigns, and educating businesses on the benefits of digital payments.
“We have always believed in the power of travel – for connectivity, cultural exchange, and as an economic driver,” said Edward Yue, General Manager for Southeast Asia, Australia, and New Zealand at Ant International. “With Alipay+, we offer local businesses a gateway to global customers, driving more inclusive growth in local communities. We’re just getting started, and in the years ahead, we can make an even greater impact together, positioning Malaysia as a global tourism hub.”
