How to buy Bitcoin or Crypto in Malaysia 2025
Contents
- Introduction
- Types of Cryptocurrency
- Best Crypto Exchanges in Malaysia
- Bitcoin ATMs in Malaysia
- Peer-to-Peer Marketplace
- Step by Step Guide: Buy Bitcoin or cryptocurrency in Malaysia
- Is Cryptocurrency Legal in Malaysia?
- Is Crypto Taxable in Malaysia?
- Conclusion
- Frequently Asked Questions
Introduction
In December 2024, Bitcoin set a new all-time high of USD 100,000 (RM442,000) for the first time. A cryptocurrency is a digital or virtual currency that is secured by cryptography, which makes it nearly impossible to counterfeit or double-spend.Many cryptocurrencies are decentralised networks based on blockchain technology—a distributed ledger enforced by a disparate network of computers. A defining feature of cryptocurrencies is that central authorities generally do not issue them, rendering them theoretically immune to government interference or manipulation.
Lately, many types of cryptocurrencies have been making headlines on the news. This is because of their increasing prices which are making tons of investors happy.
Where to buy Bitcoin in Malaysia? If you are interested to buy Bitcoin or crypto in Malaysia, here are the ways to do so.
Types of Cryptocurrency
There are thousands of cryptocurrencies available today, each with its unique features and purposes. Understanding the different types of cryptocurrencies can help you make informed decisions about which ones to invest in. Here are some of the main types:1. Utility Tokens
Utility tokens are designed to be used for a specific function within a blockchain ecosystem. For instance, Ethereum's ether (ETH) is used to pay for transaction fees and computational services on the Ethereum network. Similarly, XRP is used on the XRP Ledger to facilitate cross-border payments for financial institutions.
Examples:
- Ethereum (ETH): Used for validating transactions and running applications on the Ethereum blockchain.
- XRP: Facilitates fast and low-cost international money transfers.
These tokens are intended to be used as a medium of exchange, similar to traditional currencies. Bitcoin, the first and most well-known cryptocurrency, falls into this category. It was created to serve as a decentralized digital currency, enabling peer-to-peer transactions without the need for intermediaries like banks.
- Bitcoin (BTC): The original cryptocurrency, designed as a digital alternative to fiat money.
Governance tokens grant holders the right to participate in the decision-making processes of a blockchain project. Holders can vote on key issues such as protocol upgrades, development priorities, and other governance matters.
Example:
- Uniswap (UNI): Used to vote on proposals and changes to the Uniswap protocol.
4. Platform Tokens
Platform tokens support decentralized applications (dApps) that run on their respective blockchains. These tokens can be used to pay for services or as fuel for transactions within the platform.
Example:
- Solana (SOL): Powers applications and transactions on the Solana blockchain.
5. Security Tokens
Security tokens represent ownership of an asset, such as a share in a company or a real estate property. These tokens are subject to federal securities regulations and are typically used for investment purposes.
Example:
- MS Token: Represents partial ownership of the Millennium Sapphire, a valuable gemstone.
Best Crypto Exchanges in Malaysia
Here are some cryptocurrency exchanges you can use to buy Bitcoin or Crypto in Malaysia.1. Luno (Previously known as BitX)
Bitcoin Cash, which was first launched globally in 2017, is part of Luno’s growing list of digital asset offerings in Malaysia which includes bitcoin, ethereum, ripple and litecoin, the company said in a statement.
Further, Luno has processed more than 72 million transactions in total, encompassing the depositing and withdrawing of ringgit and the sending and receiving of digital assets. Luno’s assets under custody for both digital and ringgit have more than doubled to RM4.28 billion from last year.
The digital exchange’s staking services experienced substantial take-up, with Ethereum dominating at 55% of staking assets under custody, followed by Solana at 25% and Cardano at 20%. Cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin, Ripple, Solana and Ethereum have emerged as the most traded and favoured cryptocurrencies among Luno users.
Luno is the world’s first regulated digital asset exchange to offer syariah-compliant Ethereum staking, highlighting its commitment to customer needs. Malaysia is the first country globally where this service is available, providing assurance to Muslim investors that their investments align with Islamic principles.
In addition, Luno has introduced Luno Institutional, a service designed for institutional investors, professional traders and fund managers. This offering includes advanced account setup for managing multiple entities and access to a dedicated account manager for tailored solutions.
Cryptocurrencies saw a surge in price following Donald Trump’s impending return to the White House. The incoming US administration has been widely known to be pro-crypto and pro-business. Several individuals nominated to key positions have stated their intention to support the US in becoming the crypto capital of the planet and accumulating a national stockpile of Bitcoin.Luno’s general manager for Asia-Pacific, Aaron Tang, said these macroeconomic factors have contributed to doubling Bitcoin’s price since the start of 2024.
Sign up for Luno - get rewarded in Bitcoin!
- Founded: 2013
- Supported Cryptocurrencies: Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), Ripple (XRP), Litecoin (LTC), Bitcoin Cash (BCH), Chainlink (LINK), Uniswap (UNI), Cardano (ADA), Solana (SOL), Polkadot (DOT), Cosmos (ATOM), Avalanche (AVAX), Polygon (MATIC).
- Deposit fees: free for amounts RM 100 and above
- FPX Instant Transfer: Free (RM 1.00 for amounts below RM 100.00)
- Touch ‘n Go eWallet Free (RM 1.00 for amounts below RM 100.00)
- Instant buy/sell fees: 2%
- Buy/sell fees (exchange): 0.6%
- Withdrawal fees: RM 0.10 (bank transfer)
- Maker fees: 0.25%
- Taker fees: 0.5%
2. Binance
Within 8 months of launching in July 2017, Binance quickly skyrocketed into the world's largest cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume, processing more than $1 billion on a daily basis. It’s rise to popularity can be attributed to the impressive number of cryptocurrencies they offer, professional attitude, friendly and transparent CEO, and low trading fees.
3. Sinegy – local team (full approval from the Malaysia Securities Commission)
- Founded: 2017
- Supported Cryptocurrencies: Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH)
- Deposit fees: Free
- Withdrawal fees: RM 0.10
- Maker fees: 0.25%
- Taker fees: 0.5%
- Founded: 2018
- Supported Cryptocurrencies: Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), Ripple (XRP), Litecoin (LTC), Bitcoin Cash (BCH), Uniswap (UNI), Solana (SOL)
- Deposit fees: Free
- Withdrawal fees: Free (fiat)
- Maker fees: 0.1%
- Taker fees: 0.8%
5. MX Global
Founded in 2018, MX Global Sdn. Bhd. is a fintech company based in Kuala Lumpur, dedicated to creating a secure and accessible cryptocurrency trading platform. The MX Exchange supports trading in Bitcoin and Ethereum, providing end-to-end solutions for storing, buying, and selling cryptocurrencies. MX Global's platform integrates robust cyber-security controls and compliance management systems. Additionally, the company collaborates with leading advisory and legal firms to ensure best practices in compliance, business operations, and risk management, aiming to be the preferred liquidity platform for cryptocurrency investors and token issuers.- Website: https://mxglobal.com.my/
- Founded: 2018
- Supported Cryptocurrencies: Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), Ripple (XRP), Solana (SOL)
- Deposit fees: Free
- Withdrawal fees: RM 0.10
- Maker fees: 0%
- Taker fees: 0.5%
6. Hata
Hata, launched in 2022, is Malaysia's newer cryptocurrency exchange, and also the 5th regulated Digital Asset Exchange (DAX) after receiving Approval-in-Principle from the Securities Commission (SC) in November 2022. As the first platform approved as a Digital Broker, Hata can seek liquidity from other regulated exchanges, enhancing its market reach. Hata enables businesses and consumers to transact cryptocurrencies with fiat currencies like the US Dollar and Malaysian Ringgit safely. Regulated by the SC and the Labuan Financial Services Authority, Hata is committed to providing secure and accessible cryptocurrency trading.- Website: https://hata.io/home
- Founded: 2022
- Supported Cryptocurrencies (MYR Market): Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), Ripple (XRP), Litecoin (LTC), Bitcoin Cash (BCH), Chainlink (LINK), Uniswap (UNI), Cardano (ADA), Solana (SOL), Avalanche (AVAX), Polygon (MATIC).
- Supported Cryptocurrencies (USD Market): 37 cryptocurrencies
- Deposit fees: Free
- Instant buy/sell fees: 1%
- Withdrawal fees: RM 0.50
- Maker fees: 0%
- Taker fees: 0.1% - 0.4%
7. Torum
Torum International has emerged as a significant player in Malaysia's cryptocurrency landscape, becoming the sixth digital asset exchange (DAX) to receive an approval-in-principle from the Securities Commission Malaysia (SC) to operate as a Recognised Market Operator (RMO). Additionally, Torum has been approved to function as a digital broker, enabling it to access liquidity from other exchanges for fairer market prices. As a subsidiary of Torum Technology, a "SocialFi Metaverse ecosystem" established in 2018, Torum aims to simplify crypto trading and foster adoption in Malaysia, backed by support from major industry players like KuCoin Labs and Huobi Ventures.- Founded: 2020
- Digital Asset Exchange Platform not launched yet
Bitcoin ATMs in Malaysia
Peer-to-Peer Marketplace
Another way to buy and sell crypto in Malaysia is through a peer-to-peer marketplace (P2P). Instead of going through an exchange platform, you can sell it directly to another individual. Sellers will post what they have for sale, how much they want it for, and acceptable payment methods.Step by Step Guide: Buy Bitcoin or cryptocurrency in Malaysia
Buying bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies in Malaysia is a simple process and usually takes less than 10 minutes to get fully setup.The first step is to register with a platform, app or exchange and complete a Know Your Customer (KYC) process.
The easiest way to buy Bitcoin is from a crypto broker or exchange. Comparing exchanges lets you find one with the features you’re looking for, such as low fees, an easy-to-use interface, or 24-hour customer support.
2. Create an account.
Once you’ve chosen an exchange, you will typically need to create an account. This involves entering and verifying an email address, choosing a password and verifying your identity. You will usually need to have your phone and some identification documents handy to complete the verification process.
3. Make a deposit
Once they verify you, you can deposit transfer funds from your bank account to the exchange. There is wide acceptance of credit and debit cards, and certain exchanges also allow cash payments, but these payment methods typically incur higher fees so may not be ideal.
4. Buy Bitcoin or cryptocurrency
After your deposit has gone through, you can trade your funds for Bitcoin. On easier-to-use exchanges, this is as easy as entering the amount you want to purchase and clicking “buy”.
5. Withdraw Bitcoin to your personal wallet (optional)
How to Buy and Sell Bitcoin in Malaysia for cheaper fee
Our recommendation for new users: make use of any new user promo when you start*, then learn how to use the exchange feature (rather than the instant buy/sell feature) so you can save money on fees.- Buy/Sell on Exchange: Fee = 0.6%
- Instant Buy/Sell: Fee = 2%
Is Cryptocurrency Legal in Malaysia?
The Central Bank of Malaysia released a statement in 2014 clarifying that it does not regulate the operations of Bitcoin. Bitcoin is legal to trade although not legal tender, meaning they are not recognized as an official form of payment.However, this does not imply that cryptocurrencies are illegal.
There are no laws prohibiting the exchange of services or assets
using cryptocurrencies in Malaysia. For example, while US Dollars
are not legal tender in Malaysia, it is not illegal to use them if
both parties involved in the transaction agree to it. The same
principle applies to cryptocurrencies.
Selected
cryptocurrencies are legal in Malaysia and are regulated by the
Securities Commission Malaysia (SC) under the Digital Assets
Guideline, issued on October 28, 2020. This regulation was a
significant development for the crypto community in Malaysia, as it
brought clarity and legitimacy to the use of digital assets.
Approved Cryptocurrency Exchanges in Malaysia
- Hata
- Luno
- SINEGY
- Tokenize
- MX Global
- Torum
Is Crypto Taxable in Malaysia?
In Malaysia, it’s important to learn about the tax rules for trading cryptocurrency, just like any other investment. The Inland Revenue Board of Malaysia (IRBM) sees cryptocurrency as a security. This means that earnings from trading may be taxed as capital gains.You should keep careful records of your cryptocurrency trades. This includes when you bought them, how much you sold them for, and any fees you paid. It’s a good idea to talk to a tax advisor who knows about cryptocurrency rules. This will help you to follow local laws properly.
Understanding Your Tax Obligations
Tax rules about cryptocurrency can be tricky and differ a lot between places. In Malaysia, the Internal Revenue Service (IRBM) sees cryptocurrency as a type of security, not a currency. This means that profits you make from trading cryptocurrency are usually seen as capital gains. They might be taxed under Capital Gains Tax (CGT).But how your profits are taxed can change based on things like your situation, how long you hold the crypto, and what type of trading you do. It’s important to keep up with the latest tax rules from the IRBM. You should also talk to a tax advisor who knows about cryptocurrency laws in Malaysia.
It’s key to know and meet your tax responsibilities to follow local laws.
Keeping Records of Your Transactions
Keeping accurate records is very important in cryptocurrency investing, especially for taxes. You should write down all your crypto transactions. Make sure to include the dates, amounts, types of cryptocurrency traded, and the platforms where you did the trading.This careful record-keeping can be very helpful when it’s time to file your annual taxes. It makes the tax reporting process easier and shows that your trading activities are legitimate.
Keep in mind that tax laws about cryptocurrencies can change. It’s a good idea to stay updated on any changes and adjust your record-keeping if needed.
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