Alipay, the leading digital platform for payment and other digital services today reported that the total transaction value made by Chinese tourists in Malaysia via its app has more than doubled in the first quarter of 2023, as compared to the previous quarter (4Q22). This growth was against the backdrop of China reopening borders for international travel earlier this year.
The daily average number of transactions surged by 70 percent, which were mostly contributed by purchases made at local lifestyle and retail brands, as well as department stores and malls, including Padini, Metrojaya, and Parkson. More frequent transaction has also been seen in convenience and grocery stores, such as 7-Eleven, Lotus, MyNEWS, FamilyMart, and more.
In terms of geographical breakdown, Kuala Lumpur, Johor Bahru and Penang ranked as the top three locations where the most transactions were made.
Commenting on the fast recovery of Chinese tourists in Malaysia, Dr Cherry Huang, General Manager of Alipay+ Offline Merchant Services, Ant Group, said: “Driven by the return of business and leisure travellers to Malaysia, transactions made through Alipay have been growing steadily. We will continue to work closely with local merchants to enhance their offerings and services to bring a great experience to Chinese travellers.
“Chinese tourists now can easily access and enjoy great deals and promotions via the Alipay app, specifically through the Destination Page, to have a more rewarding and hassle-free travel experience in Malaysia.”
It was reported before that the Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry (MOTAC) had targeted the arrival of five million tourists from China in 2023 compared to 3.1 million in 2019.
Alipay is an e-wallet partner of Alipay+, an Ant Group-operated global cross-border digital payments and marketing solutions, which connects merchants with multiple e-wallets and payment methods. Alipay has been accepted by merchants in Malaysia nationwide across retail, F&B, duty-free shops, and tourist attractions, including Eraman, Dimensi Eksklusif, Tealive, Legoland, Resorts World Genting, and more.
