Is it safe to withdraw cash in Malaysia or not?
I used a HSBC ATM near Petaling Street at 10:30 PM. It was near a busy intersection and the lighting was decent. I was alone but kept my bag close and used the ATM quickly. I think it’s safe enough in cities if you use common sense. Don’t use machines where the card slot looks tampered and try to finish your transaction fast. I’d avoid using ATMs in rural or poorly lit areas at night.
Withdrew money around midnight at a 7-Eleven in George Town. The ATM was from Public Bank and worked fine. There was a Hong leong ATM also nearby. There were people coming and going so I felt comfortable. But earlier that week I saw a sketchy looking ATM outside a petrol station and skipped it. My advice is stick to indoor or mall locations and try to avoid using ATMs in isolated areas, especially late at night.
Used ATMs at night in KL Sentral and Johor Bahru many times. I usually stick to Maybank or RHB machines located inside malls or 24 hour shops. Even Simpanan or Standard chartered was fine. I don’t recommend using machines on quiet side streets or in areas with no security. Also avoid flashing large amounts of cash. In most central places it's okay but better to go with someone if it’s really late.
I withdrew cash at a CIMB ATM in Bukit Bintang around 11 PM. It was right outside a 7-Eleven and felt totally fine. The area was well lit and there were other people around. I avoided any standalone machines though and only used ones attached to banks or inside convenience stores. As a solo female traveller I never felt unsafe but I always stayed aware of my surroundings.
Recommend using the UOB ATM inside the branch-it felt more secure.
ATM was under maintenance during the day. Not cool when youre in a rush.
ATM says 24 hours but the door was locked when I went. Not cool.