Sianzzz let’s write something…
It has been a while since I last visited Johor. Given the volatility between SGD and MYR, I decided to take a calculated risk and not hold any physical ringgit while crossing the border.
In exchange, what I had in place were two apps – iChange and Touch ‘n Go eWallet (TNG).
iChange – I became aware of this app through a social media influencer. I am impressed by the favorable exchange rate compared to traditional money changers and other similar apps.
As with everything, the pros of something do come with their cons – the favorable exchange rate can only be retained in its digital form in the app’s wallet. It can only be utilized through the digital MasterCard, which is quite common today
When something is in motion, other corresponding occurrences happen. Coincidentally, I was introduced to the Touch ‘n Go eWallet (TNG) by the sianzzz initiator. I found out that it functions just like our Singapore PayNow.
With that, I went ahead to download and register for the TNG app. This is where it gets fun.
I attempted to top up the TNG app by reloading the wallet with the idea of using the digital MasterCard, and it worked after entering the challenge PIN!!
(A friendly piece of advice: Based on my experience, it may not redirect you immediately as it should after entering the challenge PIN. I’ve had to try 2 to 3 times on multiple occasions.)
Another aspect to note is to ensure that you have sufficient ringgit by performing the necessary digital exchange in your iChange account to match your chosen top-up amount in the TNG app. Otherwise, it will automatically convert your SGD in the iChange account with a not-so-favorable exchange rate.
Keep in mind that topping up the TNG wallet is just an option, and you always have the choice to use your digital MasterCard.
Overall, the experience of switching between the apps might be cumbersome. To me, this is a minimal tradeoff for a favorable rate and the convenience of skipping the “sometimes” long queue line with money exchange.
In case you are wondering how to “hedge” the risk in the event of physical cash, our sianzzz initiator, who has a load of ringgit, is traveling with me on this trip.
Signing off Sianzzz contributor