Visit Malaysia Card - Cashless Spending

Tourists shopping in Malaysia can now do so without worrying about a high credit card bill or a fluctuating currency exchange rate.

Tourists using the new Visit Malaysia Visa prepaid card by MAA Cards Sdn Bhd can enjoy a secure debt-free option for cashless spending as well as discounts, coupled with 24-hour cash access at local and overseas ATMs.

MAA Group Bhd executive chairman Tunku Datuk Ya’acob Tunku Abdullah said the card was neither a credit nor debit card.

“So, foreign tourists do not need to undergo credit evaluations or link the card to their bank accounts. They can buy and top up the card before or during their stay in Malaysia.

“The maximum card value is RM10,000,” he said during the launch here yesterday.

All tourists need to do is buy a starter pack for RM40, fill up the attached application form and provide a copy of their passports upon registration.

Visitors will effectively lock in the exchange rate when they top up the card so they need not fret over foreign exchange rates during their holiday.

“The prepaid card can be topped up using any credit card or at all CIMB cash deposit machines, selected e-pay merchants and other designated reload channels,” said Tunku Datuk Ya’acob.

The card also comes with a two-month travel personal accident insurance cover, PIN protection for cash withdrawals and balance checking facilities.

In the starter pack, visitors will also be given discount and rebate vouchers totalling RM500 from participating merchants.

Tourism Malaysia deputy director-general Datuk Azizan Noordin, who launched the Visit Malaysia Visa prepaid card, said this was licensed by Bank Negara.

“It is a fully operational Visa card so tourists can use it – not only in Malaysia but in over 29 million Visa-accepting merchants and two million ATMs worldwide.

“Cardholders will enjoy discounts when they buy goods and services in Malaysia and from retail stores, restaurants, hotels, entertainment and other outlets,” he said.

Source: The Star Online