Malaysia has a well-developed banking infrastructure, both domestically and internationally. Opening an account should be as simple as going to a branch and filling out the required documents, and if you select an international bank, you may even do it before you arrive.
Opening a bank account in Malaysia should not be difficult in general. Many big banks have strong English-language web pages showing you different choices of products on offer, allowing you to reduce your options before visiting the bank in person.
It’s important to keep in mind that not all accounts will be available to all applicants. Some banks may require you to be a permanent resident or a Malaysian citizen, so double-check your eligibility beforehand.
Some of the major banks in Malaysia include:
- Maybank (also known as Malayan Banking Berhad)
- CIMB Bank
- Public Bank Berhad (PBE)
- RHB Bank
- HSBC Bank Malaysia Berhad