If you’re like me, you’ve probably noticed that cash is slowly becoming a thing of the past. These days, almost everything can be paid for with just a few taps on your phone.
Enter DuitNow—Malaysia’s inter-bank money transfer service that makes sending and receiving money ridiculously easy.
When DuitNow was first introduced, I won’t lie—it was a little confusing. Some of us got SMS notifications out of nowhere about automatic registrations, and banks were pushing us to use it without much explanation.
But once I figured it out, I realized how much more convenient my banking life became.
No more memorizing long bank account numbers—just use a phone number or IC number, and boom, money sent instantly!
Why is DuitNow Malaysia Important
DuitNow isn’t just another banking feature—it’s a game-changer. Here’s why:
- Forget long bank account numbers – You can transfer money using a mobile number, IC number, or even a passport number.
- Instant transfers – No more waiting; money is sent and received in seconds.
- Cross-bank compatibility – Works with almost every bank and even some non-bank financial institutions.
- No extra fees for small transactions – Sending and receiving up to RM5,000 is free (most of the time!).
How to Register with DuitNow Malaysia
If you want to receive money via DuitNow, you’ll need to register first. Don’t worry, it’s super simple:
- Open your bank’s mobile app or website.
- Look for DuitNow under “Funds Transfer” or “Send Money.”
- Link your mobile number, IC number, or passport to your preferred bank account.
- Done! Now, anyone can send you money using your DuitNow ID.
Each unique identifier (e.g., mobile number or IC) can be linked to one account at a time. But if you have multiple bank accounts, you can assign different IDs to different banks.
How to Send Money with DuitNow Transfer
Sending money is just as easy:
- Log in to your banking app.
- Select DuitNow under Funds Transfer.
- Enter the recipient’s DuitNow ID (mobile number, IC, business registration number, etc.).
- Confirm the transfer amount and recipient’s name.
- Send the money instantly!
Receiving Money with DuitNow Transfer
Once you’ve registered, there’s nothing else you need to do.
Just give your DuitNow ID to the sender, and when they transfer the money, it’ll appear in your linked bank account instantly.
DuitNow QR: Scan and Pay with Ease
Gone are the days of carrying cash. With DuitNow QR, you can pay merchants just by scanning their QR code using your banking or eWallet app.
It’s Malaysia’s National QR Standard, so you don’t need separate QR codes for different banks or eWallets—just one DuitNow QR works everywhere.
How to Pay with DuitNow QR
- Open your banking/eWallet app.
- Scan the merchant’s DuitNow QR code.
- Confirm the payment details.
- Done!
It’s completely free for consumers and super convenient.
DuitNow Request: Easily Ask for Money
Ever had a friend owe you money but forget to pay you back? With DuitNow Request, you can send a payment request directly through your banking app.
The recipient just has to approve it, and the money gets transferred instantly.
You can send DuitNow Requests using a mobile number, MyKad, passport, BRN, or bank account number.
And don’t worry—you can always reject a request if someone mistakenly (or intentionally) sends you one.
DuitNow AutoDebit: Automate Recurring Payments
Sick of manually paying your bills every month?
With DuitNow AutoDebit, you can authorize businesses to deduct payments from your bank account automatically. Great for utility bills, subscriptions, and loan repayments.
You only need to give one-time consent via your banking or eWallet app, and then payments happen seamlessly without any extra effort.
DuitNow Online Banking/Wallets: Seamless Online Checkout
Shopping online?
DuitNow makes checkout smoother. Instead of entering your bank details manually, you can select DuitNow Online Banking/Wallets, pick your bank/eWallet, and approve the payment instantly.
No more dealing with OTPs and manual transfers!
DuitNow Cross-Border QR Payment: Paying Overseas
This one’s for the travelers! If you’re in Indonesia, Singapore, Thailand, or China, you can pay using DuitNow by scanning their local QR codes (QRIS, NETS, PromptPay, Alipay). It also works the other way—foreign visitors in Malaysia can scan DuitNow QR codes to pay local merchants.
No extra charges, no currency exchange hassles—just scan and pay in your local currency. Super convenient!
Is DuitNow Safe?
Short answer: Yes.
DuitNow is integrated with your bank’s security system, so it’s as safe as online banking. A few things to keep in mind:
- Your DuitNow ID is NOT your bank account number—it just directs money to your account.
- Losing your phone doesn’t mean someone can access your DuitNow funds, as long as your banking apps are secured with passwords or biometrics.
- PayNet monitors suspicious activity and can block unauthorized transactions.
What If You Have Multiple Bank Accounts?
No problem! You can link different IDs (mobile number, IC, passport) to different bank accounts. This way, you can receive money into different accounts without confusion.
Can You Opt Out of DuitNow Malaysia?
Yes. If you were automatically enrolled and don’t want to use it, you can disable it via your bank’s app or website.
Key Things to Remember About DuitNow Transfers
- Instant transfers – No delays.
- Fees? Mostly free – Transfers below RM5,000 are typically free, but some banks may charge RM0.50 for larger amounts.
- Transaction limits – Consumers can send up to RM50,000 per transaction (subject to bank limits).
- Future-dated and recurring payments supported – Handy for scheduled transfers.
- Save DuitNow IDs as favorites – No need to re-enter details each time.
What to Do in Case of Issues (Disputes & Refunds)
If you face issues (e.g., non-delivery of goods/services from a merchant):
- Contact the merchant first.
- If unresolved, reach out to your bank or eWallet provider.
- Disputes should be raised within 60 days of payment.
- Provide transaction details (date, amount, merchant info, receipts).
- Most issues are resolved in 14 days, and refunds (if applicable) go back to the original account.
Key Takeaways from DuitNow Google Reviews
1. Frequent Transaction Issues
Many users report failed or delayed transactions where funds are deducted but not credited to the recipient’s account. These issues create uncertainty and frustration.
2. Customer Service Problems
Users often complain about poor customer service, with calls going unanswered and email responses taking too long. The DuitNow contact number is difficult to reach, and users report struggling to get assistance.
3. Recycled/Incorrect Phone Number Issues
Some users encounter problems where their DuitNow ID is linked to incorrect or recycled phone numbers. Banks often redirect users to DuitNow, but without direct support from DuitNow, customers find it challenging to resolve these issues.
4. Blame-Shifting Between Banks and DuitNow
There is a common complaint that when issues arise, DuitNow refers users to their banks, while banks, in turn, refer them back to DuitNow. This blame-shifting leaves users without a clear resolution path.
5. Lack of Transparency in Transactions
Some users feel that DuitNow does not provide enough details on transaction statuses or recipient accounts, making it difficult to track failed transfers.
6. General Frustration and Negative Sentiment
Many users express strong dissatisfaction, with some calling DuitNow the worst financial service they have used. A few bank representatives have reportedly advised customers to avoid using DuitNow due to reliability concerns.
Insights from DuitNow Google Reviews
While DuitNow offers the advantage of instant fund transfers, it is evident from user feedback that reliability and customer service remain key pain points. To minimize risks, users should:
- Double-check recipient details before making a transfer.
- Use alternative methods like IBG or FPX for high-value transactions.
- Contact their banks immediately if a transfer issue arises.
- Keep records of transactions to facilitate dispute resolution.
Despite these issues, DuitNow remains a widely used service in Malaysia, and improvements in customer support and system reliability could enhance its user experience in the future.
Related: FPX Malaysia: A Simple & Secure Way to Pay Online
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is the difference between TNG and DuitNow?
Touch ‘n Go (TNG) is an e-wallet, whereas DuitNow is a real-time bank transfer system. DuitNow allows you to transfer money directly between bank accounts, while TNG Wallet is a separate digital wallet that can be used for payments.
2. What is Giro and DuitNow?
Giro is an interbank fund transfer system that takes 1-2 business days, whereas DuitNow is an instant transfer service available 24/7.
3. Who owns DuitNow?
DuitNow is operated by Payments Network Malaysia Sdn Bhd (PayNet), which is jointly owned by Bank Negara Malaysia and the financial industry.
4. How safe is DuitNow?
DuitNow is secured with bank-grade security measures, including encryption and fraud monitoring. Transactions require authentication via banking apps or online banking.
5. Is PayNet under Bank Negara?
Yes, PayNet is owned by Bank Negara Malaysia and the financial industry.
6. Is DuitNow free?
Most banks offer DuitNow transfers for free for individuals. However, businesses may incur charges depending on the transaction amount and bank policies.
7. Does Maybank use DuitNow?
Yes, Maybank supports DuitNow for both personal and business accounts.
8. Can you transfer TNG to DuitNow?
Yes, you can transfer funds from your Touch ‘n Go eWallet to your bank account via DuitNow Transfer.
9. How many DuitNow accounts can I have?
You can register multiple DuitNow IDs (mobile number, NRIC, email, or business registration number) but each ID can only be linked to one bank account at a time.
10. How do I cancel a DuitNow transfer?
DuitNow transfers are instant and irreversible. You will need to contact your bank immediately if an incorrect transfer occurs.
11. How much can I transfer from one account?
DuitNow transfer limits vary by bank, but individuals can typically transfer up to RM50,000 per day, while businesses may have higher limits.
12. How to check which bank account is linked to my DuitNow?
You can check your registered DuitNow ID and linked bank account through your banking app or online banking settings.
13. Can foreigners use DuitNow?
Foreigners with a Malaysian bank account can register and use DuitNow for transactions.
14. Is a DuitNow transfer immediate?
Yes, DuitNow transfers are processed in real-time and reflect in the recipient’s account instantly.
15. What is the limit of transfer in DuitNow?
The limit depends on the bank, but the general daily transfer limit for individuals is RM50,000. Some banks may allow you to increase this limit via online banking settings.
Final Thoughts: Why DuitNow Malaysia is Worth Using
DuitNow makes life easier—simple as that.
Whether you’re sending money to a friend, paying at a café or paying to the street food makcik, or even shopping online, DuitNow streamlines your transactions. It’s fast, secure, and widely accepted.
If you haven’t tried it yet, now’s the time. Trust me, once you start using DuitNow, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it!
