LANGKAWI: Payments Network Malaysia Sdn Bhd (PayNet) has launched the latest MY TouristPay application to internationalise local businesses through the digital economy.

This application also acts as a boost for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) especially in rural areas, by facilitating a faster and secure payment method for tourists. International tourists can now securely utilise this app to make purchases in smaller local communities lacking credit card terminals.

Chief Executive Officer of PayNet Group, Farhan Ahmad stated that this innovation focuses on the development of local entrepreneurs to encourage the use of cashless payment applications.

He further explained that the launch aimed to connect merchants with international tourists visiting Malaysia, particularly in Langkawi.

"Across Malaysia, there are 1.9 million merchants using the DuitNow QR payment facility. Therefore, as the world's first tourist cashless payment application, it allows travelers from around the world to enjoy borderless transaction convenience through DuitNow QR code scanning, just like the local residents," he added.

In addition, the MY TouristPay application, supported by the Langkawi Development Authority (LADA), is under the PayNet Cambah program, which aimed to empower sustainable communities, including local artistes in the island.

According to PayNet Group Senior Director of Strategy & ESG, Azleena Idris, the first phase focused on collaboration with Suri Lifestyle to assist mothers from the B40 community and enhance their e-commerce abilities.

"For the second phase, we aim to empower a sustainable community with local artists on Langkawi Island at an international level through business digitalization," she explained.

Some of them include Akuart Woodcarvings, Datai Valley, Crystal Langkawi, and Ilham Ceramics.

Both Farhan and Azleena were interviewed during a press conference after the application launch on Jalan Pantai Chenang, Langkawi, on Monday.