Arya News - According to Malaysia`s Finance Ministry, the total number of transactions by foreign tourists using the Alipay+ ecosystem also grew by 60.4%, rising from 6.6 million transactions in 2024 to 10.5 million in 2025.
KUALA LUMPUR – Transaction volumes by foreign tourists using the Alipay+ ecosystem for QR code payments in Malaysia surged by 89.6%, jumping from RM435 million in 2024 to RM824 million in 2025.
According to the Ministry of Finance (MoF), the total number of transactions also grew by 60.4%, rising from 6.6 million transactions in 2024 to 10.5 million in 2025.
This strong growth momentum extended into the first quarter of 2026 (1Q2026), with transaction values reaching RM255 million, up from RM173 million recorded in the same period last year.
“The transaction volume for 1Q2026 stood at 3.5 million, compared to 2.2 million in the first quarter of last year,” the MoF stated in a written reply uploaded to the Parliament website on Friday.
“This progress demonstrates how the digitalisation of payment systems supports the growth of tourism and trade activities, thereby driving the national economy.”
The MoF was responding to a question from Datuk Seri Mohd Shafie Apdal (Warisan-Semporna), who asked about the ministry’s measures to monitor capital outflow costs and requested statistical data on estimated spending by foreign tourists using the Alipay+ ecosystem.
The written reply noted that Payments Network Malaysia Sdn Bhd (PayNet) established a partnership with Alipay+ in 2024. By integrating with the DuitNow QR network, the collaboration has made it easier for tourists—particularly those from China—to make seamless payments at local establishments using their native mobile apps.
“A smooth and secure payment method also allows local merchants, especially micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), to tap into the spending power of international tourists more easily.”
Regarding monitoring and intervention to curb tax leakage and capital flight, the MoF stated that Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) will continue to intensify efforts to enhance the convenience, speed, and security of cross-border payment systems.
“This initiative will also support regional economic integration by facilitating cross-border transactions for individuals, businesses, and travellers.”
The ministry added that these measures aim to ensure that the cross-border digital payment ecosystem in Malaysia remains competitive while balancing financial security and domestic economic stability.