Must-Have Travel Apps and Tools for Visiting Malaysia

Traveling in Malaysia can be simple if you’ve got the right apps. From making sure you don’t get lost to finding the best local eats, these tools are handy for both first-time visitors and seasoned travelers. Here’s a list of the must-have travel apps to make your trip to Malaysia smooth and stress-free!

1. Google Maps

If you’re traveling anywhere, Google Maps is a staple. It’s especially useful in Malaysia, where you’ll find its maps to be very accurate. From big cities like Kuala Lumpur to small towns in Borneo, Google Maps will guide you.

It’s free to use and available for both Android and iOS. You can also download maps for offline use, which is helpful for times when cell service is spotty.

2. Grab

Grab is your go-to app for rides in Malaysia. The app offers taxi services, food deliveries, and even grocery delivery. It’s available all across Southeast Asia and is Malaysia’s most popular ride-hailing service.

Grab is safe, hassle-free, and—most importantly—affordable. You can pay with cash or link your credit card for quick payments. Public transport is great in Malaysia, but if you find yourself in a hurry or in need of a ride late at night, Grab comes in really handy.

3. Moovit

For navigating public transportation, especially in cities, Moovit is very helpful. It covers bus, train, and ferry schedules all around Malaysia. This is a must-have if you plan on using public transport often.

Moovit makes it easy to figure out which bus or train to take, how long it will take, and how much it costs. Plus, it’s free to use, and available in both English and Malay.

4. MAPS.ME

An alternative to Google Maps, MAPS.ME works especially well when you’re in rural areas or spots that might not have detailed maps. You can download maps fully offline, which is great for when you’re hiking or adventuring in places without reliable internet.

MAPS.ME doesn’t drain your battery as much as Google Maps tends to, so it’s a good backup when needed. The app is free with in-app purchases.

5. XE Currency

XE Currency is essential for keeping track of exchange rates while you’re in Malaysia. Whether you’re exchanging your currency at the airport or a money changer in the city, this app lets you track live rates.

It’s especially useful for budgeting and conversion calculations when you’re unsure of how much things cost in Malaysian Ringgit. The app is free and works offline once you’ve loaded a rate.

6. Google Translate

While many Malaysians speak English, knowing a bit of Malay (Bahasa Malaysia) can go a long way. Google Translate can come in handy when you’re trying to communicate with locals who may not speak much English.

The app also offers the option for offline translation, so you don’t get stuck if there’s no internet. Google Translate supports Malay and a bunch of other languages, making it really easy for quick translations.

7. Klook

Klook is a top app for booking activities, tours, and transport in Malaysia. If you’re looking for tickets to attractions like the Petronas Towers, or bus and ferry tickets around Malaysia, Klook offers deals that you’ll likely find cheaper than buying on-site.

It’s user-friendly, and they often have discounts, so it’s a great way to save money while planning sightseeing or adventures like snorkeling in the Perhentian Islands.

8. Airbnb

Looking for a place to stay? Airbnb is a popular app in Malaysia, especially if you’re looking for something unique, like a beachfront hut or a skyscraper apartment in Kuala Lumpur.

Airbnb has a wide variety of stays, from budget rooms to luxury villas. It’s a great option for travelers who prefer having a home-style space over a traditional hotel room. Plus, hosts are usually locals, so you’re likely to get some good advice on where to eat and what to do.

9. Booking.com

If you prefer more traditional accommodations like hotels, Booking.com is a great option. It’s easy to use, offers a wide selection of hotels, and the listings are very detailed.

You can filter options by price, location, and amenities. Prices are often more competitive than booking directly through hotel websites. It’s free to use, and you can link your account to collect rewards for future bookings as well.

10. Foodpanda

When you want to have food delivered, Foodpanda is incredibly popular in Malaysia. Whether you’re staying in and need a meal or are out and about, Foodpanda has tons of options, including both Malaysian and international food.

It’s reliable, not too expensive, and partners with lots of local restaurants in areas like Kuala Lumpur, Penang, and Johor Bahru. If you can’t decide where to eat, Foodpanda has it covered.

11. Malaysia Airlines App

If you’re flying in and around Malaysia, the Malaysia Airlines app is a must. It streamlines your check-ins, boarding passes, flight status, and even lets you manage your booking plans.

It’s free and very convenient for handling reservations, whether you’re flying domestic or international within Malaysia Airlines’ network.

12. MySejahtera

Malaysia used this app during the pandemic to track COVID-19 cases, but it’s still very useful for travel-related information and health updates. The app might be requested at airports or for certain events, especially if the government reintroduces any travel guidelines or advisories.

It’s free, and while COVID-19 restrictions have largely lifted, this app can still provide helpful health information and updates during your trip.

13. Wise (Formerly TransferWise)

If you’re planning to move money between currencies, Wise is an excellent option. Whether you need to pay for something in Malaysian Ringgit or send money back home, Wise offers much lower fees than traditional banks.

The app is especially useful for long-term travelers who need to manage multiple currencies. Wise provides the real-time exchange rate, and it’s easy to use from your phone.

14. 12Go Asia

12Go Asia is a great app if you’re planning longer journeys across Southeast Asia or within Malaysia. It lets you book trains, buses, flights, and ferries in just a few clicks.

It’s known for being user-friendly with good pricing options, and it saves you from having to buy tickets in person, which can be a hassle in some places. The app is free, though some bookings carry small service fees.

15. Trailforks

If you love hiking or mountain biking, Trailforks is a must. Malaysia has beautiful trails, especially around Cameron Highlands and Mt. Kinabalu, and Trailforks maps them out really well.

You can access trail info, conditions, and reviews, which makes planning outdoor adventures super easy. Some of the features are behind a paywall, but the free version is more than enough for casual hikers.

16. Splitwise

Traveling with friends? Splitwise is the easiest way to keep track of shared expenses. Whether you’re splitting a dinner bill, accommodation, or activities, this app makes group spending simple and fair.

Even if your friends aren’t using it, you can tally up the expenses and the app will do all the calculations for you. It’s available for free on both Android and iOS.

Conclusion

These travel apps will make your visit to Malaysia as easy and fun as possible. They cover all the basics— from navigation and booking to translation and food delivery. Download these apps before arriving, and they’ll help make your travels around Malaysia stress-free. Now all that’s left is to explore and enjoy everything Malaysia has to offer!