Malaysia is not just known for its skyscrapers, multiculturalism, and islands—it’s a shopping paradise as well. Whether you are visiting Kuala Lumpur, Penang, or Langkawi, the country offers a wide range of unique souvenirs and affordable things to buy from Malaysia that you can take back home.
In this blog, we’ll explore the Malaysia famous things to buy including local specialties, cheap things to buy in Malaysia, and must-have souvenirs to bring back home.
What is Malaysia famous for?
Malaysia is famous for snacks like white coffee and Dodol, traditional batik and songket textiles, spices, herbal products, pewter crafts, and cosmetics. Tourists also love picking up electronics, beauty items, and handmade jewellery at competitive prices.
Top 10 Things to Buy from Malaysia
Shopping in Malaysia is an experience as colorful as its culture. From traditional fabrics and handicrafts to tasty local snacks and coffee, the country offers a wide variety of souvenirs and gifts. Here’s a list of the top 10 things to buy from Malaysia:
Food Souvenirs
1. White Coffee
Originating from Ipoh, white coffee is made from lightly roasted beans and served with condensed milk. It is less bitter and has a creamy texture, making it a favourite Malaysian beverage.
- Best Place to Buy: Supermarkets, Ipoh White Coffee shops
- Cost: ₹300–₹800 per pack
2. Dodol
A sticky, toffee-like sweet made from coconut milk, jaggery, and rice flour. Dodol is a traditional Malaysian dessert and a must-buy food souvenir.
- Best Place to Buy: Local sweet shops, traditional markets
- Cost: ₹150–₹300
3. Instant Noodles and Sauces
Malaysian instant noodles like Maggi Kari, MyKuali Penang White Curry, and sauces such as sambal belacan are tasty and easy to carry.
- Best Place to Buy: Supermarkets, convenience stores
- Cost: ₹50–₹250 per pack
4. Local Chocolates and Biscuits
Malaysia produces premium chocolates and cookies in tropical flavours like durian, mango, and coconut.. They are light to pack, loved by kids and adults alike, and perfect as gifts for friends and family back home.
- Best Place to Buy: Airport duty-free shops, Beryl’s Chocolate Kingdom
- Cost: ₹200–₹500
Décor Souvenirs
5. Pewter Items
Malaysia is one of the world’s leading producers of pewter. You can buy items like tankards, vases, frames, and jewellery made from this durable metal.
- Best Place to Buy: Royal Selangor outlets, shopping malls
- Cost: ₹500–₹2,000
6. Handicrafts and Beaded Items
Malaysia’s handicrafts and beaded items are a true reflection of its rich cultural heritage. From beautifully handwoven baskets and wooden carvings to colorful beadwork made by indigenous communities. They’re not only affordable but also lightweight, making them easy to carry home as gifts.
- Best Place to Buy: Central Market, handicraft shops in Sabah and Sarawak
- Cost: ₹200–₹600
7. Traditional Jewellery and Accessories
Handcrafted earrings, bangles, and necklaces inspired by Malay, Indian, and Chinese designs are popular with tourists.From delicate silver and gold pieces to handmade bangles, brooches, and hairpins, these items add a cultural charm to any outfit.
- Best Place to Buy: Little India KL, Central Market
- Cost: ₹300–₹900
Clothing Souvenirs
8. Batik Fabric
Malaysian batik is known for floral and geometric designs in vibrant colours. The fabric is used for shirts, dresses, scarves, and even decorative items. It’s lightweight, affordable, and carries a touch of Malaysian tradition wherever you go.
- Best Place to Buy: Central Market KL, Kota Bharu Batik Centre
- Cost: ₹300–₹1,000 depending on size and material
9. Songket Fabric
Songket is a luxurious, handwoven fabric with gold or silver threads. It is worn during weddings and festivals and makes a rich gift or souvenir. While slightly more expensive than batik, songket is a timeless keepsake that beautifully represents Malaysia’s rich heritage.
- Best Place to Buy: Kota Bharu, Kuala Lumpur boutiques
- Cost: ₹800–₹2,500 depending on quality
Herbal Products
10. Herbal Products & Balms
Malaysia offers a variety of traditional herbal balms and oils that are used for headaches, muscle pain, and stress relief. These are made from eucalyptus, camphor, and lemongrass.
- Best Place to Buy: Guardian, Watsons, local pharmacies
- Cost: ₹100–₹400
Cheapest things to buy in Malaysia
If you are looking for cheap things to buy in Malaysia, here’s a list of budget-friendly souvenirs you can easily afford even at the end of your trip.
Keychains and Fridge Magnets
These small, practical souvenirs are perfect for capturing memories of your trip, featuring iconic Malaysian landmarks like the Petronas Towers or the national flower, the hibiscus. They are a popular and affordable way to bring a piece of Malaysia’s vibrant culture back home with you.
- Best Place to Buy: Chinatown, Petaling Street, night markets
- Cost: ₹50–₹100
Batik Scarves and Hair Bands
Crafted using the traditional wax-resist dyeing technique, these accessories showcase beautiful and intricate patterns unique to Malaysian batik art. The vibrant colors and delicate designs make them a stylish and meaningful gift, perfect for adding a touch of Southeast Asian flair to any outfit.
- Best Place to Buy: Local markets, Langkawi street stalls
- Cost: ₹100–₹250
Instant Teh Tarik Packs
Bring the taste of Malaysia’s national drink home with these convenient instant mixes, which allow you to recreate the creamy and frothy milk tea. Just add hot water to enjoy this beloved, sweet, and comforting beverage, a true taste of Malaysian “mamak” culture.
- Best Place to Buy: Grocery stores, 7-Eleven
- Cost: ₹150–₹300 per box
Rattan Coasters and Baskets
Handwoven from the durable and sustainable rattan palm, these items showcase the rich craftsmanship of local artisans, particularly from the Borneo states of Sabah and Sarawak. They are both functional and decorative, adding a rustic, natural charm to any home.
- Best Place to Buy: Local markets in Sabah and Sarawak
- Cost: ₹100–₹300
Mini Pewter Keyrings
These elegant keyrings are a beautiful example of Malaysia’s world-renowned pewter craftsmanship, known for its fine detail and quality. Featuring designs that range from cultural symbols to miniature animals, they are a durable and sophisticated keepsake.
- Best Place to Buy: Royal Selangor mini outlets
- Cost: ₹150–₹300
Best Shopping Places in Malaysia
- Central Market, Kuala Lumpur
A cultural landmark offering traditional handicrafts, batik, souvenirs, and local artworks under one roof. The building itself is a beautiful art-deco structure with a rich history, and visitors can watch local artisans at work, creating unique pieces.
- Petaling Street (Chinatown), KL
A bustling street market known for bargain shopping, street food, imitation goods, and vibrant local energy. As you navigate the crowded lanes, you’ll be immersed in the sights, sounds, and smells of Chinese culture, with a variety of delicious street food stalls offering local delicacies like Hokkien mee and grilled seafood.
- Komtar and Gurney Plaza, Penang
Modern shopping malls in Penang offering international brands, electronics, and local products. Komtar is a long-standing landmark with a great observation deck, while Gurney Plaza is a popular waterfront destination with a wide array of dining options and entertainment.
- Suria KLCC and Pavilion Mall, Kuala Lumpur
Premium shopping destinations located in the heart of KL featuring luxury brands and high-end boutiques. Suria KLCC offers an unparalleled view of the Petronas Towers and is home to high-end fashion labels, while Pavilion Mall is a trendy, upscale complex with a stunning interior and a wide selection of international and local designer stores.
- Langkawi Night Market
A rotating night bazaar known for street snacks, handmade items, and affordable souvenirs perfect for tourists. The atmosphere is lively and festive, with a great mix of local flavors and unique goods. It’s an excellent opportunity to experience the island’s authentic culture and cuisine after sunset.
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