Malaysia and India Sign Landmark Cross-Border QR Payments Deal: UPI Meets DuitNow for Seamless Travel

Payments Network Malaysia Sdn Bhd (PayNet) and NPCI International Payments Limited (NIPL) have signed a pivotal agreement to enable cross-border QR payments between Malaysia and India.

This collaboration allows travelers from both nations to use their familiar local payment apps for seamless transactions across borders.

Two-Phase Rollout for Travelers

In the first phase, Indian visitors to Malaysia can scan DuitNow QR codes using UPI-enabled apps at over 2.9 million merchant locations.

This covers popular tourist spots, restaurants, shops, and more, enhancing convenience for the growing number of Indian tourists.

The second phase will enable Malaysians traveling to India to pay at UPI QR-enabled merchants using their banking apps or e-wallets.

Boosting Tourism and Economic Ties

The initiative aligns perfectly with Malaysia's Visit Malaysia 2026 campaign, aiming to attract over two million Indian tourists.

By channeling tourist spending directly to local merchants, it strengthens economic activity and trade between the two nations.

Praveen Rajan, CEO of PayNet, highlighted how this linkage supports everyday cross-border payments at scale.

Ritesh Shukla, MD and CEO of NIPL, emphasized expanding UPI's global footprint through interoperable ecosystems.

Historical Context and Future Prospects

DuitNow QR, Malaysia's national QR standard, and India's UPI real-time system have revolutionized domestic payments in their respective countries.

Building on successful precedents like UPI's international expansions, this deal paves the way for broader digital financial connectivity in Southeast Asia and beyond.

Ultimately, the agreement promises secure, familiar payment experiences that will foster deeper bilateral economic integration.