CJMY
Malaysians can now pay with DuitNow QR at participating shops in five overseas markets. PayNet announced the link with Alipay+ on Wednesday, 28 October.
Users scan merchant codes that show the Alipay+ logo. They need no extra app and no separate account.
Here is where it works, which banks are ready and how to pay.
Where DuitNow QR works and who can use it
The first five markets are mainland China, Hong Kong, South Korea, the Philippines and Laos.
Customers of Maybank, CIMB and Hong Leong Bank can use it now. They pay through their existing mobile banking apps.
Bank Islam is next, but no date has been given.
Other banks and e-wallets can join later. PayNet also plans to add more markets in stages.
However, the announcement named no future markets or dates.
Alipay+ is a cross-border platform run by Ant International. It links more than 10 national payment schemes.
Its reach is wide, with more than 150 million merchants in over 210 markets. Only five are open to Malaysians for now.
Therefore, look for the Alipay+ logo at the till rather than assume every shop takes it.
Customers of other banks should check their app before flying. Support depends on each bank joining the service.
How to pay with your banking app
First, open the DuitNow QR function in your bank’s app. Then scan the merchant’s QR code that shows the Alipay+ logo.
Next, review the amount and confirm in the same app. You do not need to download Alipay+ or open an account.
The service works one way. You scan the merchant’s code, but the merchant cannot scan your phone.
Because the service uses your bank’s own app, there is nothing new to install. Only participating merchants take part.
Fees, exchange rates and limits were not stated. Check with your bank before you travel.
Keep a second payment method handy in case a shop does not show the logo.
If the scan option does not appear in your app, update the app first. Then ask your bank if it supports overseas payments.
The reports did not say how quickly payments clear. They also did not say which currency appears on your payment confirmation.
Our guide on why hotel Wi-Fi can interrupt online payment verification is also worth reading before a trip.
Why PayNet is expanding abroad
Alipay+ visitors have paid at DuitNow QR merchants in Malaysia since November 2023. The new link covers the reverse direction.
PayNet recorded nearly 30 million cross-border transactions in 2025. That was about 150% more than in 2024, with China-linked payments driving much of the growth.
The service also supports Visit Malaysia 2026 and 2027.
PayNet runs Malaysia’s national QR payment system. The new link extends that system to shops abroad.
The two firms first announced a partnership for inbound and outbound travellers in August 2023.
Danny Chung of Alipay+ at Ant International said the platform helps national payment systems build two-way connectivity.
PayNet chief executive Praveen Rajan said, “Cross-border payments should feel as familiar as paying at home.”
Watch for further announcements from PayNet and your own bank. We will update this story when more banks or markets are confirmed.
Sashidaran Gunathevan
Admin
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