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Local Tips: Touch ‘n Go, SIM Cards, Money & Rush Hour
A few local tips make getting around KL much smoother.
Touch ‘n Go card
- Touch ‘n Go cards are sold at KLIA, rail stations, NU Sentral, 7-Eleven and petrol stations. New cards usually hold no balance. Reload them at kiosks and stores, or by phone via the TNG eWallet (Google Play · App Store) if the card has NFC.
SIM cards and eSIM
- SIM counters in arrivals at T1 and T2: Maxis/Hotlink, CelcomDigi and U Mobile. One guide says that since Feb 2026 physical SIMs need a passport, photo and hotel address; eSIMs avoid the queue.
Rush hours
- Rush hours on the trains are weekdays about 6:30-9:30am and 4:30-8pm. Traffic peaks after 4pm (the HOHO operator also says to start before 4pm).
Women-only coaches
- Women-only coaches exist: MRT Kajang Line (since Sept 2023), MRT Putrajaya Line (since Apr 2024) and LRT Ampang/Sri Petaling (since 31 Dec 2024). They are mid-train, with pink platform markings.
Changing money
Malaysia uses the ringgit (RM, MYR). Money-changing counters at the airport are often expensive, so change only a small amount there, or none at all.
- Use your bank card at an ATM. ATMs are everywhere in KL. Use ones inside or next to a bank branch, and check your own bank’s foreign withdrawal fees before you travel.
- Always pay in ringgit. If an ATM or card machine offers to charge you in your home currency, choose ringgit (MYR): the home-currency conversion rate is usually worse.
- Use a licensed money changer in town. Licensed money changers in central KL shopping malls usually offer more competitive rates than the airport. Check the Bank Negara Malaysia list of licensed money changers and keep your receipt.
- Never change money on the street or with people who approach you. Unlicensed money changing is illegal in Malaysia and you risk fake notes.
- Cards work widely: Grab can be paid by card in the app, and a Touch ‘n Go card covers trains and buses.
Route map
Starting from Cormar Suites
Cormar Suites’ front desk can point you to the nearest Touch ‘n Go reload points and help with Grab or transport questions.
Staying in central KL makes all of this easy. Cormar Suites has spacious serviced apartments with kitchens, Parry Road Café downstairs, and a rooftop infinity pool. Book direct for our best available rate.
Frequently asked questions
Where can I buy a Touch ‘n Go card in KL?
At KLIA, rail stations, NU Sentral, 7-Eleven and petrol stations. New cards usually have no balance, so reload them at a kiosk or counter.
Sources
Checked on 11 October 2026. Fares, timetables and services change, so always confirm on the official site before you travel.