Shopping in Malaysia ranges from exclusive
department stores to street
markets. Bargaining is expected in the markets, unless fixed prices are displayed. Kuala Lumpur is a popular shopping destination, rivaling Singapore and Hong Kong.
Suria KLCC, a shopping
mall with a spectacular fountain, gardens and a beautiful piazza, houses a great selection of leading couture outlets.
Times Square, the city's largest mall
, the new Pavilion complex, Star Hill and
Lot 10 are popular
shopping centers. The islands of Labuan
and Langkawi are
duty-free zones. Cameras, pens, watches, cosmetics, perfume and electronic goods are available duty-free throughout Malaysia. Malaysian specialty goods include Royal Selangor pewter, silverware and brassware, batik, jewelry, pottery and
songket brocade. Enquire at Malaysian Royal Customs and Excise about claiming cashback on duty-free goods.
Shopping hours Most shops keep their own opening hours, usually within the range of 1000-2200.
Currency Information:CurrencyRinggit (MYR; symbol RM) = 100 sen. Notes are in denominations of RM100, 50, 10, 5, 2 and 1. Coins are in denominations of 50, 20, 10, 5 and 1 sen. The Ringgit is often referred to as the Malaysian Dollar.
Currency ExchangeThe best currency for exchange is the Pound Sterling, but US Dollars are also widely accepted. All commercial banks are authorized foreign exchange dealers; major hotels are only licensed to buy or accept foreign currency in the form of notes and traveller's cheques. It may be difficult to exchange foreign currencies outside the main tourist centers.
Credit/Debit Cards and ATMsAmerican Express, Diners Club, MasterCard and Visa are widely accepted.
Traveller's ChequesAccepted by all banks, hotels and large department stores. To avoid additional exchange rate charges, travelers are advised to take traveller's cheques in Pounds Sterling, US Dollars or Australian Dollars.
Currency RestrictionsRestrictions apply.
Banking HoursMon-Fri 0915-1630 (some branches open on Saturdays). Banks in Kelantan and Terengganu open Sun-Thurs 0915-1600/1630.
Exchange Rate Indicators| Date | Jan 09 |
| £1.00= | RM5.12 |
| $1.00= | RM3.50 |
| €1.00= | RM4.70 |
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