Travel to Thailand from Malaysia

White sand beaches with palm trees swaying and turquoise sea waters lapping against the shores. Majestic temples which have been around since the 15th century. Gigantic shopping complexes, home to the best shopping spots from luxury brands to local brands. Bustling night markets offering drool-worthy street food and unique delicacies (like fried bamboo worms!). Thailand is all of these and more!

Looking to explore the Land of Smiles? Here’s everything you need to know before your Thailand trip.

Updated Thailand travel requirements for Malaysians (2024)

If you’re wondering whether you need a visa for your Thailand trip, the answer is no. A visa is not necessary for Malaysian passport holders wanting to go on a trip no more than 30 days. Best of all, you can also extend your visa for a further 30 days at any local immigration office.

Keep in mind: Make sure your passport has at least six months validity. Bring along your flight tickets or hotel booking confirmation, in case the immigration officers request to see these documents.

Do Malaysians need a health declaration for Thailand in 2024?

At time of writing, there are no travel requirements and restrictions in place for Malaysians entering Thailand. A proof of vaccination upon arrival is not necessary.

What to prepare before travelling to Thailand

Planning a trip to Thailand in 2024? First things first, let’s get your essentials sorted out:

Your return flight tickets
Your hotel booking confirmation, in case requested by Immigration Officer

Keep in mind: Make sure your passport is stamped when you enter and leave Thailand and retain your Immigration arrival or departure card. If you lose it the card during your trip, lodge a police report at the local police station.

Do you need travel insurance?

While travel insurance is not a mandatory requirement, consider getting travel insurance that may cover any medical emergencies and travel mishaps during your trip. You can book SafeTrip on TNG eWallet from as low as RM3/day and enjoy coverage of up to RM100,000.

For extra peace of mind, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) awards hotels and services that meet pandemic-level safety and health standards with an SHA+ certificate. The certificates ensure a safe stay through 70% of staff members being fully vaccinated and educated with COVID-19 emergency measures, and convenience and cleanliness of attractions, among others.

How to pay in Thailand?

Wondering how to handle your baht? Here’s the lowdown on payment methods in Thailand:

Cash is still widely used

Cash is widely used and still the number one method of paying in Thailand. Trying the local street food from roadside stalls and shopping at markets will be nearly impossible without some baht bills and coins on you. Consider carrying cash for tipping hotel staff and service workers as well. If you need more cash, you can also withdraw from any Visa-accepted ATM using the Touch ‘n Go eWallet Visa Card.

Cards are accepted

Major credit cards like Visa and MasterCard are also accepted in cities and tourist spots. However, American Express and other cards may have limited acceptance, so carry alternatives just in case. Most small vendors like those in Jodd Fairs do not accept card payments.

E-wallets are encouraged

Don’t worry, you can still enjoy cashless payments for street vendors. QR payments are increasingly popular in Thailand due to its convenience and security. Carrying and spending larger amounts of cash can be unsafe and make you a target for pickpockets.

TNG eWallet offers two convenient ways for Malaysians to pay in Thailand:

With TNG eWallet, transactions throughout your Thailand trip just become easier — and safer, too!

Overseas QR Payment (with AliPay+ and PromptPay)
- You scan the merchant’s QR code: Use your TNG eWallet to scan Alipay QR code or PromptPay QR code displayed at participating merchants throughout Thailand.
- Merchants scan your QR code: Some shops may also scan the QR code on your TNG eWallet app for a quick and contactless transaction.

Touch 'n Go eWallet Visa Card
- Your card will come in handy for situations where QR payments are not accepted.
- If you’re in need of quick cash, you can also withdraw your money using the Touch 'n Go eWallet Visa Card.
- Best of all, you get to enjoy competitive exchange rates with zero foreign transaction fees on your Visa card purchases.

Travel tips for Malaysians travelling to Thailand

Ready for an amazing journey across the border to Thailand? Here’s a few more tips before you dive into Thailand’s wonders.

The best time to visit Thailand is during the cooler months from November to February when temperatures are more comfortable. This period also coincides with popular festivals like Songkran (Thai New Year) and Loy Krathong, adding cultural richness to your experience.
Greet locals with a smile and return the “wai greeting,” a common way of saying hello and being friendly — where you bow your head and place your hands together in a prayer position.
Be mindful of local customs and traditions. Dress modestly with shoulders and knees covered when visiting religious sites.
Navigating Thailand’s bustling cities are easy. In Bangkok, the BTS Skytrain and MRT subway offer convenient transportation options. Best of all, you can use your Touch 'n Go eWallet Visa Card on MRT and TNG eWallet (just scan QR code!) on BTS Skytrain. Tuk-tuks and taxis are readily available for shorter trips. For exploring further afield, consider renting a scooter or bicycle to discover hidden gems off the beaten path.

Where can I use TNG eWallet in Thailand?

The overseas QR payment is widely accepted in over 8 million merchants in Thailand, including popular brands like: