Malaysia is a popular travel destination and a hub for many international flights, making it a prime location for frequent flyers to take advantage of airport lounge access. Fortunately, many credit cards and banks in Malaysia offer lounge access as a perk of their rewards programs, allowing travelers to relax in comfort before their flights.
In this article, we will highlight some of the best credit cards and banks in Malaysia that offer airport lounge access, along with their key features, benefits, and lounge program partnerships. Whether you are a business traveler or a leisure traveler, there is sure to be a credit card or bank that suits your needs and preferences. So sit back, relax, and read on to discover the best ways to access airport lounges in Malaysia.
Best Credit Cards & Banks with Airport Lounge Access (Malaysia)
1. AEON BiG Visa Gold Card
Why We Like It
The AEON BiG Visa Gold Card is a great credit card for individuals who shop frequently at AEON BiG hypermarkets. Cardholders can enjoy up to 5% cashback on their purchases at AEON BiG outlets, and up to 2% cashback on their purchases elsewhere. Furthermore, the card has no annual fees and offers free travel insurance, making it a practical option for budget-conscious consumers.
• Intro Offer: N/A
• Annual Fee: No annual fee
• Lounge Access Details: N/A
2. HSBC Visa Signature
Why We Like It
The HSBC Visa Signature offers access to exclusive travel offers, privileges, and discounts. This card is great for travelers who are looking for a card that offers a variety of travel-related benefits, including lounge access, travel insurance, and rewards.
• Intro Offer: The HSBC Visa Signature offers new cardholders a welcome gift of 10,000 reward points. Cardholders also get to enjoy 1-year annual fee waiver.
• Annual Fee: The annual fee for the HSBC Visa Signature is RM600. However, this fee can be waived if the cardholder spends RM45,000 per year.
• Lounge Access Details: Cardholders get complimentary access to Plaza Premium Lounges in Malaysia and around the world. Cardholders can also bring one guest with them to the lounge, free of charge.
3. AmBank Signature Priority Banking Visa Infinite
Why We Like It
The AmBank Signature Priority Banking Visa Infinite credit card is an excellent option for those who value exclusivity and personalized service. With the card, cardholders get to enjoy priority banking services, which include access to a dedicated relationship manager, financial planning advice, and more.
• Intro Offer: New cardholders can enjoy a complimentary 3D/2N stay at The Ritz-Carlton Langkawi, subject to terms and conditions.
• Annual Fee: The annual fee for the AmBank Signature Priority Banking Visa Infinite is RM1,060. However, the fee is waived for the first year for new cardholders.
• Lounge Access Details: Cardholders can enjoy unlimited complimentary access to Plaza Premium lounges in Malaysia and Singapore.
4. RHB Premier Visa Infinite Credit Card
Why We Like It
The RHB Premier Visa Infinite Credit Card offers exclusive travel privileges, luxury concierge services, and cashback rewards on local and overseas spend. Cardholders can enjoy complimentary access to Plaza Premium lounges in Malaysia, Singapore, and Hong Kong, as well as discounted rates at over 1,000 airport lounges worldwide. Additionally, cardholders can enjoy a range of travel insurance benefits and discounts on airport transfer services.
• Intro Offer: The card currently offers an exclusive welcome gift of a RIMOWA Classic Cabin S luggage or RM1,000 cashback when you spend RM10,000 within the first 60 days of card activation.
• Annual Fee: The annual fee for the primary card is RM1,060, with no annual fee for the first year. Supplementary cards cost RM530 per year.
• Lounge Access Details: Cardholders can enjoy unlimited complimentary access to Plaza Premium lounges in Malaysia, Singapore, and Hong Kong. Additionally, cardholders can enjoy discounted rates at over 1,000 airport lounges worldwide.
5. Standard Chartered WorldMiles World Mastercard
Why We Like It
Standard Chartered WorldMiles World Mastercard is a great credit card option for frequent flyers, offering generous rewards on overseas and local spending that can be redeemed for air miles. With a low annual fee and complimentary lounge access at select airports, this card is a great value for those who travel frequently.
• Intro Offer: New cardholders can enjoy a bonus of up to 35,000 WorldMiles when they apply for the card and spend a minimum of RM3,000 within the first 60 days of card activation.
• Annual Fee: The annual fee for this card is RM636. However, the fee is waived for the first year for new cardholders.
• Lounge Access Details: Cardholders can enjoy complimentary access to Plaza Premium Lounges in Malaysia and select airports worldwide.
6. HSBC Premier Travel Credit Card
Why We Like It
HSBC Premier Travel Credit Card is a great choice for frequent travelers who want to earn travel rewards on their daily spending. The card offers high reward rates on travel-related expenses, such as flights, hotel bookings, and travel agencies. Additionally, the cardholders can enjoy complimentary airport lounge access and travel insurance coverage, making it a comprehensive travel companion.
• Intro Offer: New HSBC Premier Travel Credit Cardholders can enjoy up to 10,000 air miles or 25,000 reward points as a welcome gift upon activation of the card.
• Annual Fee: The annual fee for the HSBC Premier Travel Credit Card is RM600. However, the fee is waived for the first year, and it is also waived for HSBC Premier customers who maintain a minimum Total Relationship Balance (TRB) of RM200,000.
• Lounge Access Details: HSBC Premier Travel Credit Cardholders can enjoy complimentary access to Plaza Premium lounges in Malaysia, Singapore, Hong Kong, China, Cambodia, Philippines, Australia, and the United Kingdom. The cardholders can bring one guest along with them for free, and any additional guest will be charged an access fee.
7. AEON Platinum Visa / MasterCard
Why We Like It
The AEON Platinum Visa / MasterCard is an excellent card for people looking to save money while enjoying various perks. The card offers a high cashback rate on all retail transactions and comes with exclusive travel, shopping, and dining privileges. It also provides access to various discounts and deals at selected outlets. Below we have discussed many other benefits that come with this card, which would definitely help you make the right choice.
• Intro Offer: The card comes with a 6% cashback offer on all overseas spending during the first six months, with a cap of RM100 per month.
• Annual Fee: The annual fee for the AEON Platinum Visa / MasterCard is RM95, which is waived for the first year.
• Lounge Access Details: The AEON Platinum Visa / MasterCard does not offer any complimentary lounge access.
8. Maybank Amex The Platinum Card
Why We Like It
The Maybank Amex The Platinum Card is an exclusive card that offers a range of luxurious perks and benefits, including complimentary airport lounge access, personal concierge services, travel insurance, and more. Cardholders can also earn reward points for every RM1 spent on the card, which can be redeemed for a variety of rewards such as travel, shopping, and dining vouchers.
• Intro Offer: New cardholders can enjoy a welcome gift of 50,000 Membership Rewards Points upon payment of the annual fee and making the first transaction within 60 days of approval.
• Annual Fee: The annual fee for the Maybank Amex The Platinum Card is RM1,000.
• Lounge Access Details: Cardholders can enjoy complimentary access to selected Plaza Premium Lounges, as well as to American Express lounges in Hong Kong, Sydney, and Delhi airports. They can also enjoy two complimentary access to Priority Pass airport lounges per calendar year.
Types of Lounge Programs in Malaysia
Priority Pass
Priority Pass is a global airport lounge access program that offers its members access to over 1300 lounges in more than 600 cities worldwide. In Malaysia, members can enjoy access to over 30 lounges across the country, including airports in Kuala Lumpur, Penang, and Johor Bahru.
Golden Lounge
Golden Lounge is Malaysia Airlines’ premium airport lounge program. It offers its guests access to Malaysia Airlines lounges in various locations, including Kuala Lumpur International Airport, Kota Kinabalu International Airport, and Kuching International Airport. The lounges offer a range of amenities, including comfortable seating, free Wi-Fi, and complimentary food and beverages.
Plaza Premium
Plaza Premium is a global airport lounge network that offers access to over 180 lounges in more than 50 airports worldwide. In Malaysia, Plaza Premium operates lounges in Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Langkawi, and Johor Bahru. The lounges offer a range of amenities, including comfortable seating, free Wi-Fi, and complimentary food and beverages.
LoungeKey
LoungeKey is a program offered by Mastercard that provides access to over 1000 airport lounges worldwide. In Malaysia, LoungeKey members can access over 10 lounges in airports in Kuala Lumpur, Penang, and Kota Kinabalu. The lounges offer a range of amenities, including comfortable seating, free Wi-Fi, and complimentary food and beverages.
Malaysia Airport Lounge FAQ
Can I access other Asian countries airport lounges with a Malaysian credit card?
Whether you can access other Asian countries’ airport lounges with a Malaysian credit card depends on the specific credit card’s benefits and the lounge program it is associated with. Some lounge programs may offer access to affiliated lounges in other countries, while others may be limited to lounges in Malaysia. It’s best to check the specific terms and conditions of your credit card and the associated lounge program.
Which Malaysian credit cards offer free airport lounge access? (ie. no annual fee)
Some Malaysian credit cards may offer free airport lounge access as a benefit, but this typically comes with an annual fee. The specific credit cards and lounge programs vary, so it’s important to research and compare different options to find the one that best suits your needs.
Conclusion
In conclusion, having access to airport lounges can greatly enhance your travel experience, providing comfort, convenience, and additional perks. Credit cards that offer airport lounge access can provide a cost-effective way to enjoy these benefits. In Malaysia, there are several credit cards and lounge programs available, each with its own unique features and benefits. When selecting a credit card, it’s important to consider factors such as reward rates, introductory offers, annual fees, and lounge access details. Additionally, it’s important to be aware of the terms and conditions of lounge access and to check for any restrictions or exclusions. With a little research and planning, you can choose a credit card that suits your needs and enjoy the perks of airport lounge access on your next trip.