If you are visiting Malaysia on a cruise or planning a short trip from the port, understanding the local currency will help you travel with confidence. This guide from Shore Excursions Asia provides everything you need to know about the Malaysian Ringgit (MYR) including denominations, currency tips, exchange advice, and how to make the most of your spending onshore through our carefully designed Malaysia shore excursions.
The History of Malaysia Currency
During the period between 1946 and 1967, there were a variety of changes in Malaysia’s currency in accordance with different designs. It was not until 1975 that Malaysian ringgit issued by the Bank Negara Malaysia was recognized as Malaysia’s currency. Currently, Malaysia's monetary system contains 2 types: coin and banknote, both of whom were first introduced in 1967.
What is the Currency in Malaysia?
- Currency Name: Malaysian Ringgit
- Currency Code: MYR
- Symbol: RM
- 1 Ringgit = 100 sen
This is the official and only currency accepted across Malaysia, including popular cruise ports such as Kuala Lumpur, Langkawi, and Penang.
Malaysia Currency Denominations
Specifically, coins have 4 denominations: 5 sen, 10 sen, 20 sen, 50 sen, and banknotes have 5 denominations: 1 MYR, 5 MYR, 10 MYR, 50 MYR, 100 MYR; 1 MYR equals to 100 sen. Both coin and banknotes include the image of a hibiscus - national flower of Malaysia. Especially, each banknote of different denominations features a typical Malaysian symbol regarding economy, culture, tradition, nature and flora and fauna (on the back of the note).
Malaysian Coin
5 sen: 14 dots, five horizontal lines, sulur kacang (pea tendrils) motif, "destar siga" cloth motif of the Kadazan-Dusun tribes (reverse) and the bank title, value, year of minting, the national flower – hibiscus (observe)
10 sen: 14 dots, five horizontal lines, weave pattern of the Mah Meri people (reverse) and the bank title, value, year of minting, national flower – hibiscus (observe).
20 sen: 14 dots, five horizontal lines, bunga melur (Jasmine flower) motif on the foreground with a "destar siga" motif on the background (reverse) and the bank title, value, year of minting, national flower – hibiscus (observe).
50 sen: 14 dots, sulur kacang (pea tendrils) motif and fine lines denoting security feature (reverse) and the bank title, value, year of minting, national flower – hibiscus (observe).
Malaysian Banknotes
1 MYR: Tuanku Abdul Rahman with the national flower - hibiscus, and patterns of the traditional fabric - the songket (observe) and Wau bulan (reverse).
5 MYR: Tuanku Abdul Rahman with the national flower - hibiscus, and patterns of the traditional fabric - the songket (observe) and Rhinoceros hornbill (reverse).
10 MYR: Tuanku Abdul Rahman with the national flower - hibiscus, and patterns of the traditional fabric - the songket (observe) and Rafflesia (reverse).
20 MYR: Tuanku Abdul Rahman with the national flower - hibiscus, and patterns of the traditional fabric - the songket (observe) and Hawksbill and leather back turtle (reverse).
50 MYR: Tuanku Abdul Rahman with the national flower - hibiscus, and patterns of the traditional fabric - the songket (observe) and Malaysia's first Prime Minister, Tunku Abdul Rahman Putra Al-Haj, Oil palm trees (reverse).
100 MYR: Tuanku Abdul Rahman with the national flower - hibiscus, and patterns of the traditional fabric - the songket (observe) and Mount Kinabalu and pinnacles rock formations of Gunung Api valley (reverse).
Did you know? The Malaysian Ringgit was recognized as one of the 15 most beautiful banknotes in the world by The Telegraph in 2016.
Exchange Rates Between Malaysian Ringgit & Dollars
In addition, Malaysian banknote has been recognized as one of 15 most beautiful notes in the world by The Telegraph in 2016. In terms of Malaysian ringgit currency exchange rate, 1 MYR has equaled to 0.242 U.S. dollars (September 4th, 2018).
Currency Tips When Take Malaysia Trips
Unlike other shore excursions, a Malaysia shore excursion does not need a currency exchange before going to this country as cruise ship passengers may exchange the money for Malaysian ringgits with better currency exchange fee in China Town or Bukit Bintang compared to those in their own country. It is suggested that tourists get to currency exchange offices of banks at the airport for conveniences such as Bank Islam, CIMB bank, and May Bank. Another notable point is that it would be better to change U.S. dollar for Malaysian ringgits to avoid exchange rate loss.
Both banknotes and coins are used equally in all transactions in Malaysia. It is recommended tourists use cash instead of credit card or debit card when buying a bus ticket, food, or other goods of great value in large supermarkets or convenience stores like Seven Eleven. When you pay with cash, you would receive coin or notes as the change as well.
Quick Answers: Currency FAQs
Q: What is the official currency of Malaysia?
A: Malaysian Ringgit (MYR), symbol RM.
Q: Can tourists use US dollars in Malaysia?
A: USD is not accepted widely. It is best to exchange for Ringgit.
Q: Where should I exchange money in Malaysia?
A: Airport banks and city exchange offices are recommended.
Q: Are coins used frequently in Malaysia?
A: Yes, coins and banknotes are both used in daily transactions.
Explore Malaysia with Confidence: Recommended Shore Excursions
Now that you understand how Malaysian currency works, it is time to explore the country. Our Malaysia shore excursions are designed to give you a rich, local experience with expert guides, seamless pickup at the port, and flexible schedules tailored for cruise travelers.
Top-Rated Tours from Popular Ports
Kuala Lumpur Shore Excursions
- Duration: 8 hours
- Pick-up/Drop-off: Port Klang/Port Klang
- Highlights: Batu Cave Hindu Temple, Royal Selangor Pewter, Petronas Twin Towers, Batik Painting, China Town
- Tour Customizable: Absolutely! (Tell us your specific requirements in the inquiry form)
Langkawi Shore Excursions
- Duration: 4 Hours
- Pick-up/Drop-off: Langkawi port/Langkawi port
- Highlights: Tanjung Rhu fishing village, Langkawi’s mangrove forest
- Tour Customizable: Absolutely! (Tell us your specific requirements in the inquiry form)
Penang Shore Excursions
- Duration: 8 Hours
- Pick-up/Drop-off: Penang Port/Penang Port
- Highlights: Snake Temple, George Town, Penang's State Museum, Clan Jetty, Little India, The Street of Harmony
- Tour Customizable: Absolutely! (Tell us your specific requirements in the inquiry form)
Malacca Shore Excursions
- Duration: 6 hours
- Pick-up/Drop-off: Malacca Port / Malacca Port
- Highlights: Dutch Square, Jonker Street, Cheng Hoon Teng Temple, Malacca River Cruise
- Tour Customizable: Absolutely! (Let us know your preferences in the inquiry form)
Sandakan Shore Excursions
- Duration: 6.5 hours
- Pick-up/Drop-off: Sandakan Port / Sandakan Port
- Highlights: Puu Jih Shih Temple, Sandakan Memorial Park, Agnes Keith House
- Tour Customizable: Absolutely! (Let us know your preferences in the inquiry form)
