Best places to exchange currency in Kuala Lumpur

You've got a few options if you want to exchange currency in Kuala Lumpur. Whether you’re thinking of visiting Malaysia or you’re already there, we’ll take you through the best ways to get travel money in Kuala Lumpur.

You might decide to pop into a physical currency exchange store in Kuala Lumpur - but many customers will find it more convenient to pick up a low cost travel card instead, for on the go payments, cash withdrawals and easy to convert currencies with great exchange rates.

Beat the high-street exchange rates with a Wise card

Visa Debit CardVisa Debit CardDelivered in SingaporeDelivered in SingaporeMid-market rateMid-market rate

Order and get your Wise travel card in Kuala Lumpur for convenient spending and withdrawals during your trip.

Wise uses the mid-market exchange rate with no markup or margin when converting your money to any currency you need. This may work out cheaper than most currency exchange shops in Kuala Lumpur.

10 best places to exchange money in Kuala Lumpur

The best place to exchange currency in Kuala Lumpur does depend a lot on where in the city you are, and which currencies you need. You'll need to do a bit of your own research - but to start you off, we've detailed 10 of the top rated exchange services in Kuala Lumpur, according to Google.

NameAddressPhone numberGoogle rating
Suka Money Changers Sdn. Bhd.95, Jln Bukit Bintang, Bukit Bintang, Kuala Lumpur+60 3-2142 05114.9 out of 5 stars
Asia Exchange Money Changer @ IOI City MallLG-34B, LG Floor, IOI City Mall Lebuh IRC, IOI Resort City, Putrajaya+60 18-256 37514.8 out of 5 stars
Infinity Exchange Sdn. Bhd.Unit LG11, Lower Ground Floor, Tropicana Gardens Mall, 2A, Persiaran Surian, Tropicana Indah, Petaling Jaya+60 13-881 18685 out of 5 stars
HME Money Changer @ Bukit BintangBangunan Bintang, 44, Jln Sultan Ismail, Bukit Bintang, Kuala Lumpur+60 3-2110 50184.8 out of 5 stars
My Money Master Sdn. Bhd.LG 040, LGF, Mid Valley Megamall, Lingkaran Syed Putra, Mid Valley City, Kuala Lumpur+60 1-800-22-30303.4 out of 5 stars
Suria Muhabat Sdn Bhd South City Plaza - Money Changing & RemittanceLot No. G53 & G53A, South City Plaza, Sungai Besi Serdang Perdana, Taman Serdang Perdana, Seri Kembangan+60 3-8945 53024.3 out of 5 stars
myMONEYshopLG01-8A 163 Retail Park, 8, Jalan Kiara, Mont Kiara, Kuala Lumpur+60 18-203 99664.5 out of 5 stars
Antara Duit Money ChangerC7, Concourse Level, Avenue K Mall, Jln Ampang, Kuala Lumpur+60 18-358 65003.9 out of 5 stars
SPECTRUM FOREX Aeon Cheras Selatan (Money Changer)G50 Aeon Cheras Selatan Jalan Cheras Perdana Cheras, Balakong+60 18-312 53544.4 out of 5 stars
Merchantrade10 Wisma GTK, Jalan Hang Lekiu, Kuala Lumpur+60 3-2031 98963.9 out of 5 stars

Suka Money Changers Sdn. Bhd.

Opening hours
  • Monday: 10:30 AM - 7:00 PM
  • Tuesday: 10:30 AM - 7:00 PM
  • Wednesday: 10:30 AM - 7:00 PM
  • Thursday: 10:30 AM - 7:00 PM
  • Friday: 10:30 AM - 12:30 PM, 2:30 - 7:00 PM
  • Saturday: 10:30 AM - 7:00 PM
  • Sunday: 10:30 AM - 7:00 PM
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Asia Exchange Money Changer @ IOI City Mall

Opening hours
  • Monday: 10:00 AM - 9:30 PM
  • Tuesday: 10:00 AM - 9:30 PM
  • Wednesday: 10:00 AM - 9:30 PM
  • Thursday: 10:00 AM - 9:30 PM
  • Friday: 10:00 AM - 9:30 PM
  • Saturday: 10:00 AM - 9:30 PM
  • Sunday: 10:00 AM - 9:30 PM
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Infinity Exchange Sdn. Bhd.

Opening hours
  • Monday: 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM
  • Tuesday: 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM
  • Wednesday: 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM
  • Thursday: 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM
  • Friday: 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM
  • Saturday: 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM
  • Sunday: 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM
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HME Money Changer @ Bukit Bintang

Opening hours
  • Monday: 8:00 AM - 1:00 AM
  • Tuesday: 8:00 AM - 1:00 AM
  • Wednesday: 8:00 AM - 1:00 AM
  • Thursday: 8:00 AM - 1:00 AM
  • Friday: 8:00 AM - 1:00 AM
  • Saturday: 8:00 AM - 1:00 AM
  • Sunday: 8:00 AM - 1:00 AM
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My Money Master Sdn. Bhd.

Opening hours
  • Monday: 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM
  • Tuesday: 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM
  • Wednesday: 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM
  • Thursday: 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM
  • Friday: 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM
  • Saturday: 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM
  • Sunday: 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM
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Suria Muhabat Sdn Bhd South City Plaza - Money Changing & Remittance

Opening hours
  • Monday: 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM
  • Tuesday: 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM
  • Wednesday: 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM
  • Thursday: 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM
  • Friday: 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM
  • Saturday: 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM
  • Sunday: 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM
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myMONEYshop

Opening hours
  • Monday: 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM
  • Tuesday: 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM
  • Wednesday: 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM
  • Thursday: 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM
  • Friday: 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM, 2:30 - 9:00 PM
  • Saturday: 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM
  • Sunday: 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM
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Antara Duit Money Changer

Opening hours
  • Monday: 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM
  • Tuesday: 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM
  • Wednesday: 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM
  • Thursday: 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM
  • Friday: 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM, 3:00 - 9:00 PM
  • Saturday: 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM
  • Sunday: 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM
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SPECTRUM FOREX Aeon Cheras Selatan (Money Changer)

Opening hours
  • Monday: 10:00 AM - 9:45 PM
  • Tuesday: 10:00 AM - 9:45 PM
  • Wednesday: 10:00 AM - 9:45 PM
  • Thursday: 10:00 AM - 9:45 PM
  • Friday: 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM, 2:30 - 9:45 PM
  • Saturday: 10:00 AM - 9:45 PM
  • Sunday: 10:00 AM - 9:45 PM
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Merchantrade

Opening hours
  • Monday: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
  • Tuesday: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
  • Wednesday: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
  • Thursday: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
  • Friday: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
  • Saturday: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
  • Sunday: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM
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How we rated the currency exchange shops in Kuala Lumpur

We've taken into account the Google ratings at the time of research, looking at exchange services in popular Kuala Lumpur areas. As ratings are dynamic, and things change all the time, you’ll want to also do your own research before you head out to exchange your money.

Do currency exchanges in Kuala Lumpur accept Singapore Dollars?

Always check with the person at the till which currencies they will accept for travel money purchases. Most in-person currency exchanges will buy and sell major currencies, like Singapore Dollars.

If you’d rather have peace of mind when travelling, consider ordering a Wise travel card. You can spend using the card or Google / Apple Pay; plus Wise’s exchange rates and fees can be a lot cheaper than getting your travel money from a currency exchange shop.

How to exchange currency in Kuala Lumpur

Depending on your needs and preferences, you may want to choose between banks, currency exchange shops and online platforms to exchange currency conveniently in Kuala Lumpur. It’s worth noting that to keep customers safe, and to comply with the law, it’s common for exchange services to ask for ID when you buy foreign currency. Get ready by having your photo ID, such as a passport or driving license, with you when you arrange your exchange.

If you’re planning on exchanging currency with a bank, you’ll need to double check the travel money and exchange options available. Many banks only offer exchange to customers who already have an account - plus you might have to order online in advance, particularly if you’re looking for a more exotic currency. If your local bank offers currency exchange to people who aren’t customers, bear in mind that you’ll need to take an ID document along with you to collect your cash.

To exchange currency in Kuala Lumpur using a bank:

  1. Check that the bank you've picked offers currency exchange

  2. Make sure the currency you need is available - you may need to order ahead

  3. Visit a branch with cash, or order online, depending on the bank's process

  4. Take your travel money instantly, or collect in branch later - remember your ID document if you're not a customer

As an alternative you could choose to visit a currency exchange service or travel money specialist which offers online or on the spot exchange. Currency specialists usually have a very good selection of foreign currencies available, although smaller branches may not hold everything in stock at one time. It’s also useful to know that the exchange rate you get for an on the spot exchange in a store may be different to the one you’ll get when ordering online for collection - usually online orders get a better rate.

To exchange currency in Kuala Lumpur using a currency exchange service:

  1. Decide if you'll visit a currency exchange store in person to exchange, or order ahead

  2. Place your order online and pay by card

  3. Take your travel money instantly, or collect in branch later - you'll need to take along your ID document when you visit the branch to place a collect your order

Finally, you might choose to order your travel money online. There are a few ways to do this. Some providers will let you order online and either have the cash delivered to home, or you can collect at a branch or in the airport. Other options offer a travel money card which you can order online, top up, and then use for spending and withdrawals while you’re away. This can be an especially convenient option as it’s often possible to complete the whole process without needing to leave home.

To exchange currency in Kuala Lumpur online:

  1. Choose an online currency exchange service which suits your needs

  2. Order your travel money or travel money card, following their specific process

  3. You'll normally need to upload an image of your photo ID document for verification

  4. Your money or card can be delivered to home or collected, depending on the provider you pick

Things to look at before exchanging money

Before you decide how to exchange money it’s worth shopping around to compare a few different available options. That can mean your money goes further. Here are a few more important tips:

Avoid airport currency exchanges

Airports often have currency exchange services - but they're not usually good value. Services at the airport know that customers have few options left, which means they can crank up the costs. You may not see any fee displayed, but there are likely to be charges rolled into the exchange rate.

Beware of ATM rates

If an ATM in a foreign country asks if you'd prefer to pay in your home currency, say no. If you agree, the ATM will manage the currency conversion for you - and that ATM will not give you as good a rate as the one your bank or card network offers. Pay at ATMs and with merchants using the local currency wherever you are, to avoid this.

Check the mid-market rate

Not sure what a good rate looks like? Check the mid-market rate for your specific currency. The mid-market rate is the one used on global markets, and when banks buy and sell currencies. However, it's not usually passed on to customers. Instead extra fees are added - a markup, margin, or spread. Compare the rate you're being offered to the mid-market rate for your currency - which you can get from Google - to see this.

 Get a travel money card from Wise

Travel money cards can help you avoid costs and hassle when exchanging money.

Order a card online, top up your balance in SGD, and either convert to the currency you need in advance or at the point of payment.

Providers like Wise support 40+ currencies for holding and exchange, and often use better exchange rates and lower fees compared to physical currency exchange stores.

Factors to consider when choosing an exchange provider in Kuala Lumpur

Before you pick the right Kuala Lumpur currency exchange option for your needs, do a little shopping around. Compare the available options, looking at the costs involved, how safe they are, and what customers say about them.

When considering costs make sure you check both the exchange rate and the fees charged. It's common for services to state there's no commission, when the costs have simply been added into the exchange rate being used.

Double check safety by picking a reputable and licensed provider. If you're exchanging money at a major bank you can rest assured it's licensed. If you're using physical currency exchange stores it's worth asking how they're regulated - and with online providers you can usually find everything you need in a footnote on the website, including licensing details.

Finally, ask around for personal recommendations from friends and family in Kuala Lumpur, and use online resources like Google reviews and Trustpilot to make sure previous customers are positive about any service you might pick.

Best foreign currency exchange rates in Kuala Lumpur

Exchange rates can be confusing. It can often seem like every bank, exchange store or online service has their own rate - and choosing can feel daunting.

The key to getting the best currency exchange rate in Kuala Lumpur is to understand the mid-market exchange rate for your currency pair. The mid-market rate is the rate used when trading on global markets - the one banks and currency exchanges get when they buy or sell currencies themselves. However, providers usually don't pass on this rate to customers - they'll add a percentage markup or margin, which is a fee, to the rate offered to retail customers buying or selling relatively small amounts of currencies.

You can take the mid-market rate for your currency as a good benchmark when measuring up your options for currency exchange in Kuala Lumpur. Find the mid-market rate on Google, and then look for a provider which offers this or as close as possible to it.

Another good bet is to pick a travel money card from a service like Wise which offers currency exchange which uses live mid-market rates, with the fees split out for clarity and transparency.

When is the best time to exchange currency?

Exchange rates change a lot, based on the demand in global markets. That means that there's no best time for currency exchange, but tracking the market can certainly help you spot a good deal when one becomes available.

Keep an eye on the mid-market rate for your currency, using any of our handy tools, and watch how it's changing over time. It's also possible to set up rate alerts online which can help you learn when a rate hits the level you're looking for. If you're planning on converting cash - or if you have a travel money card - you can lock in the rate by buying your foreign currency at that point.

No matter how good a deal you think you're getting, be sure you're picking a safe and reputable provider for your exchange. If it sounds too good to be true it probably is.

Tips for finding the best currency exchange rates in Kuala Lumpur

Here are a few final ideas on how to find the best exchange rates in Kuala Lumpur, no matter which currency you need to buy:

  • Compare the available rates across different providers close to you and online - and be sure to check for any additional fees or commissions which can push up costs significantly

  • Use online currency converters or mobile apps to stay updated on the current exchange rates for your currency pair, and buy when the time's right

  • Consider using an online alternative such as Wise so you can instantly convert currencies using just your phone, wherever you're ready

Conclusion

There are a few different ways you might want to currency in Kuala Lumpur. You could head to a bank, choose a physical currency exchange service, or go for an online option.

There are also some great travel money cards from providers like Wise which allow you to order a card online or in an app, top up remotely, and spend or make withdrawals overseas easily. Travel money cards are secure and often offer better exchange rates and lower overall costs compared to switching currency at the airport or in a physical location in your destination.

Use this guide to figure out which currency exchange in Kuala Lumpur might be best for you, and don't forget to also take a look at travel money cards to see if popping one in your wallet can help you save.

FAQ - Best places to exchange currency in Kuala Lumpur

When should Iexchange currency for travel?

There's not one single best place to exchange currency for travel, but converting your currency online before you head off can save time - and often money.

What is the cheapest way to get foreign currency in Kuala Lumpur?

The cheapest way to get foreign currency in Kuala Lumpur will depend on the currency you need and the value you want to exchange. This guide gives some good pointers to locations you may want to compare, but shopping around is still essential. Compare the exchange services in Kuala Lumpur with online and digital services to get the best deal overall.

Should I exchange money before I travel?

Exchanging cash on arrival is inconvenient and can leave you vulnerable to scams and unscrupulous money changing services in your destination. You can exchange money before you go conveniently - or get a travel money card which you can top up digitally and use for spending and withdrawals when you're away, often with great rates and low fees.

Does it matter where you exchange currency?

Yes. If you get a bad exchange rate - or high commission costs - you'll end up with less money in the end for your trip. Before you exchange money, shop around and compare both on and offline options to make sure you get a good deal without excessive fees.

How do I exchange currency after a trip?

Banks and currency exchange stores often buy back unused foreign currency - but the rate is unlikely to be as good as it was when you converted in the first place, which means you get less back than you spent. Instead, consider a travel money card like the Wise card which lets you leave your money in different currencies so you don’t get stung by the “buy back” exchange rate.