Malaysia is a shopper’s paradise, offering plenty of choices for travelers who love to explore local and international brands. You’ll find air-conditioned malls packed with both high-end and mid-range shops, perfect for picking up clothes, gadgets, and gifts. Then there are the markets, where bargaining is an essential part of the experience, and each stall offers something unique.
If you’re planning your first trip, or even if you’re a returning visitor looking for hidden gems, it’s good to know what to expect. This guide breaks down the major malls, tips for bargaining, what to buy, and many more to help you make the most of your shopping experience.
Major shopping malls
Malaysia’s cities, especially Kuala Lumpur, are home to some of Southeast Asia’s best shopping malls. Here are a few top spots.
Keep in mind that these malls aren’t just for shopping — they double as entertainment hubs too. All of them have cinemas and a wide range of restaurants, and some even offer extras like skating rinks, bowling alleys, private karaoke rooms, and even theme parks. So if you’re traveling with someone who’s not big on shopping, they’ll still find plenty to keep themselves entertained. There’s truly something for everyone.
Pavilion Kuala Lumpur — An upscale mall in the Bukit Bintang area known for luxury brands, designer boutiques, and plenty of dining options.
Suria KLCC — Located at the base of the iconic Petronas Towers, it offers mid- to high-end fashion, local brands, and a great view of the towers’ light show at night.
The Exchange TRX (TRX Mall) — Kuala Lumpur’s newest luxury shopping destination, at the base of the newest skyscraper, featuring international designer brands, gourmet dining, and stylish architecture in the heart of the city.
Mid Valley Megamall — One of the largest malls in Malaysia, featuring a mix of local and international stores, and plenty of family-friendly dining.
Sunway Pyramid — Famous for its giant pyramid entrance and Sphinx replica, this mall has a unique Egyptian theme, plus shops for all budgets and an ice-skating rink.
1 Utama Shopping Centre — One of the world’s largest malls, with over 700 stores, including a rooftop garden and adventure park.
Berjaya Times Square — Known for its indoor theme park, this massive mall in Kuala Lumpur offers everything from budget fashion to electronics, plus restaurants and entertainment options.
IOI City Mall Putrajaya — One of the largest malls in Malaysia, boasting a huge range of shops, from fashion to homeware, along with an indoor ice-skating rink and an adventure park.
Gurney Plaza (Penang) — A popular shopping spot for Penangites, offering international brands, local boutiques, and a good selection of restaurants.
Author’s pick: When I was a teenager, I used to love Berjaya Times Square because of the theme park and the abundance of cheap finds, including budget hair and nail salons.
These days, my personal favorite is Suria KLCC. Although it comprises six floors of shops, it’s still comparatively smaller than the rest. That, and its symmetrical layout, make it easier to navigate for a foggy-brained person like myself who has no sense of direction. Plus, if you get tired, you can always step out into the park to enjoy some greenery and check out the dancing fountains.
Street bazaars and night markets
If you’re after local products, souvenirs, and the buzz of Malaysian street life, make time to visit the night markets (called “pasar malam” in Malay). Every neighborhood in the country has one, some daily, and some weekly, but here are the most popular ones:
Petaling Street in Kuala Lumpur’s Chinatown is a classic spot for bargain hunters. You’ll find everything from imitation branded goods and T-shirts to local handicrafts. It’s also a great place to try street food like wanton mee, roasted chestnuts, and freshly squeezed juices — just remember to haggle for the best deals.
Nearby, Jalan Alor is another must-visit, especially for foodies. By day, it’s a quiet street, but at night it transforms into a bustling open-air food court, with vendors serving everything from satay and grilled seafood to durian ice cream.
For unique souvenirs, head to Central Market, just a short walk from Petaling Street. Housed in a historic Art Deco building, it’s a treasure trove of local crafts, batik fabrics, pewterware, and art. It’s also a good place to pick up small gifts like keychains, traditional snacks, and handmade jewelry.
Outside the capital, Penang’s Batu Ferringhi Night Market is a must for picking up affordable T-shirts, sarongs, beachwear, and local snacks. The atmosphere is laid-back, and you can often find unique island souvenirs here.
In Melaka, the Jonker Street Night Market is a fun place to explore, with a mix of antique shops, local crafts, and street food. You’ll find everything from chicken rice balls and cendol to handmade trinkets and old-school collectibles. It’s a relaxed way to experience the historic heart of this UNESCO World Heritage city.
Tax-free shopping & premium outlets
Malaysia has several tax-free zones that are especially popular for bargain hunters. Langkawi and Labuan, for example, offer duty-free shopping on items like alcohol, chocolate, and perfumes. Prices here can be significantly lower than on the mainland, so it’s worth checking out if you’re in the area.
For branded bargains, Johor Premium Outlets (JPO) is a top choice. Located near the Malaysia-Singapore border, it features over 150 designer and brand-name outlets at discounted prices. If you’re heading to Genting Highlands, you’ll find Genting Highlands Premium Outlets with similar discounts but with a cool mountain setting!
Electronics
Malaysia is a solid option for travelers looking to buy electronics, including smartphones, laptops, cameras, and audio gear. Prices are often competitive, especially compared to Western countries, and there’s a wide range of choices.
Low Yat Plaza in Kuala Lumpur is probably the most well-known spot for electronics. This multi-story mall near Bukit Bintang is packed with shops selling the latest gadgets, accessories, and tech repair services. It’s a good place to compare prices between different brands and models. Don’t be shy about asking for discounts or checking if there’s a package deal — many vendors are open to bargaining.
If you’re in Petaling Jaya, Digital Mall PJ is another popular destination, known for its variety and fair prices. It’s especially good for computer accessories, cables, and smaller electronic items that might be harder to find elsewhere.
For those who prefer bigger chain stores, malls like Suria KLCC, Pavilion, and Mid Valley Megamall have outlets like Machines, Samsung stores, and major electronics chains like Senheng and Harvey Norman. These stores tend to have fixed prices and official warranties, which can be more reassuring if you’re buying something high-value.
When shopping for electronics in Malaysia, it’s wise to:
- Compare prices — Different shops might quote different prices for the same product.
- Check the warranty — Some items come with local warranties only, while others may offer international coverage. Ask before you buy.
- Ensure authenticity — Stick to reputable stores or authorized resellers, especially for high-end items.
- Keep receipts and packaging — You might need these for warranty claims or if you’re planning to claim a GST refund at the airport.
What to buy
Apart from international brands, Malaysia also offers a fantastic range of souvenirs and local products. One of the most popular ones is batik, a hand-dyed fabric that comes in a variety of colors and patterns. Pewterware is another top pick, as well as local handicrafts made from rattan or bamboo, which are lightweight and easy to pack.
Food souvenirs are a hit with travelers too. Consider picking up white coffee from Ipoh, kaya (coconut jam) for breakfast spreads, or dodol, a sticky, toffee-like sweet made from coconut milk and palm sugar. Durian products — from candy to coffee — make quirky gifts for adventurous friends back home.
For more ideas, check out my detailed guide on Malaysian souvenirs here.
Bargaining & payment
In most malls, supermarkets, and chain stores, prices are clearly marked and non-negotiable. But in markets, night bazaars, and some independent shops, bargaining is part of the fun!
For payments, most malls and larger shops accept credit and debit cards, and some accept contactless payments like Apple Pay or Google Pay. But in markets and small shops, it’s best to have cash on hand. ATMs are easy to find in cities and malls, and money changers are widely available, especially in tourist areas.
For more info on how Malaysia’s currency works and what to expect when paying for things, check out my post How Much Does a Trip to Malaysia Cost?. I cover everything from ATMs and money changers to tipping customs and budgeting tips.
If you’re curious about haggling and want to master the art of getting the best deal, I’ve also written Haggling in Malaysia, where I share cultural do’s and don’ts, and practical tips on how to negotiate like a pro.
Tourist tax refund
Good news for visitors: Malaysia offers a Goods and Services Tax (GST) refund (known as the Tourist Refund Scheme) on certain purchases. To qualify, you need to spend at least RM300 at participating stores and show your passport at the point of purchase. When you’re leaving Malaysia, present your receipts, goods, and completed refund form at the airport’s refund counter before checking in your luggage. Refunds can be made in cash or credited to your credit card.
For the most up-to-date information and detailed guidelines, you can refer to the official Malaysian Customs Department website.
Staying safe while shopping in Malaysia
Shopping in Malaysia is generally safe, but it’s always wise to stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded markets and busy malls. Here are a few practical tips:
Keep an eye on your belongings — Pickpocketing can happen in busy areas like markets, street stalls, and even in malls during sales periods. A crossbody bag or a backpack worn in front of you is a good choice to keep your belongings secure. Avoid leaving bags or shopping purchases unattended, even at cafes or food courts.
Avoid flashing cash — Try not to pull out large amounts of cash in public. Use smaller bills for everyday purchases and keep larger sums or cards tucked away in a secure pocket or money belt. ATMs are readily available, so you don’t need to carry too much cash at once.
Bargain with care — At markets and bazaars, bargaining is part of the culture, but always be polite and keep things friendly. Most vendors are used to negotiating and won’t be offended if you start a little lower. However, it’s okay to walk away if the price doesn’t feel right.
Be wary of scams — Most vendors are honest, but occasionally you might encounter scams, especially in tourist-heavy areas. Common examples include being charged more than agreed or being sold counterfeit items. Always ask the price before buying, double-check your change, and avoid deals that sound too good to be true.
Shipping your purchases home
If you find yourself buying more than your suitcase can handle (which is easy to do with Malaysia’s variety of shopping options!), don’t worry — here’s what you can do:
Most major shopping malls and larger department stores can arrange international shipping through reputable courier services. Check with the store’s customer service counter; they often have partnerships with couriers like DHL, FedEx, or local postal services, and can help you with packaging and paperwork.
If you’re shopping at markets or smaller shops, you might need to arrange shipping on your own. Malaysia’s national postal service, Pos Malaysia, offers a range of international parcel services at reasonable rates. Look for PosLaju counters in malls or visit a local post office to send your package.
For bulkier items like furniture or art pieces, consider contacting a freight forwarder. They can handle larger shipments, including customs clearance and delivery to your home country. Costs vary based on weight and destination, so always ask for a quote in advance.
If you’re flying home, you can also check your airline’s baggage allowance — sometimes it’s cheaper (and faster) to pay for extra luggage than to ship items separately.
Final thoughts
In Malaysia, shopping malls are a way of life. The heat, humidity, and unpredictable downpours make them more than just shopping spots — they’re places to enjoy a nice meal, watch a movie, or simply hang out with friends and family. I think we spend a good chunk of our lives in there! So, you can be sure that shopping in Malaysia will be an incredibly rewarding experience.
If you’re looking for more travel advice, I’ve got plenty of posts covering everything from local cuisine to cultural quirks and day-trip ideas. Take some time to browse the blog and explore the best of Malaysia before your trip.
Have you discovered any hidden shopping gems or memorable experiences here? Leave a comment below — I’d love to hear about your favorite finds!
