Payment Methods & Currency in Sabah (Kota Kinabalu)

When visiting or living in Kota Kinabalu, it’s useful to understand how payments are made and what currency is accepted. Whether you’re buying groceries, dining out, or shopping for souvenirs, here’s everything you need to know.

1. Currency Used in Sabah

The official currency in Sabah, including KK City, is the Malaysian Ringgit (MYR), often abbreviated as RM.

• Coins: 5 sen, 10 sen, 20 sen, and 50 sen

• Banknotes: RM1, RM5, RM10, RM20, RM50, and RM100

You’ll find plenty of money changers at shopping malls, the airport, and in town. Most hotels and some tour agencies also offer currency exchange services, though rates may vary.

2. Common Payment Methods

Here are the most commonly used payment methods in KK City:

Cash

• Still widely used, especially at local markets (tamu), food stalls, rural areas, and smaller shops.

• Always good to carry some cash for convenience.

Credit & Debit Cards

• Accepted in most shopping malls, supermarkets, hotels, and mid-to-high-end restaurants.

• Visa and MasterCard are the most common. Some places also accept American Express and UnionPay.

E-Wallets & Contactless Payments

Digital payments are increasingly popular and accepted at many urban businesses.

Some popular e-wallets in KK City include:

• Touch ‘n Go eWallet

• Boost

• GrabPay

• ShopeePay

• Setel (mostly for petrol stations)

Tip: Many stores have QR codes at the cashier for easy scanning via mobile apps.

Online Bank Transfers (FPX / DuitNow)

• Commonly used for online purchases or services.

• Some local businesses accept payment via bank transfer or DuitNow QR.

3. ATMs & Bank Services

You’ll find ATMs across KK City, especially around shopping malls, petrol stations, and banks. Major local banks include:

• Maybank

• CIMB

• RHB

• Public Bank

• Bank Islam

• Hong Leong Bank

Most ATMs accept foreign cards with Visa, Plus, MasterCard, Cirrus, or Maestro logos (check with your bank about international withdrawal fees).

4. Tips for Tourists & Expats

• Always carry small change for public transport, market purchases, and rural areas.

• Use e-wallets for cashback promos and discounts (many apps offer rewards).

• Beware of foreign card transaction fees – check with your bank before traveling.

• Make sure to inform your home bank if you plan to use your card in Malaysia to avoid potential blocks.

5. Useful Currency Conversion Tools

• XE Currency Converter

• Google Currency Search

• Currency converter apps (some e-wallets have built-in tools)

If you’re a business in KK City that accepts digital payments or foreign currencies, feel free to [get listed here] or [contact us] to be featured on our business directory.

Let me know if you’d like a shorter version for a sidebar, or need this adapted into Malay or Chinese too.