Malaysia is rapidly becoming a hub for cryptocurrency and digital asset innovation in Southeast Asia.
With the rise of global interest in digital finance, Malaysia has taken proactive steps to ensure its crypto ecosystem matches the high standards set by countries in Asia like Singapore, Hong Kong and even the Philippines.
The country’s regulatory measures aim to foster a secure and transparent environment for investors, enabling them to engage confidently with the market.
To address the challenges associated with unregulated platforms, the Securities Commission Malaysia (SC) introduced its Digital Assets regime in 2019. This framework brought digital asset exchanges, custodians, and Initial Exchange Offering (IEO) operators under its regulatory purview, providing much-needed clarity and protection for investors.
By doing so, the SC has established a foundation that balances innovation with security, ensuring that digital asset exchanges operate responsibly and transparently.
The SC’s guidelines require all regulated entities to adhere to high standards of compliance, security, and investor protection. These measures not only safeguard user assets but also strengthen Malaysia’s reputation as a trusted player in the global digital economy.
The result is a dynamic, evolving cryptocurrency landscape that continues to attract both local and international stakeholders.
If you’re wondering “Who are the regulated crypto exchanges in Malaysia” this list will answer your question.
Regulated Crypto Exchanges (DAX) in Malaysia
As of February 23, 2024, the SC has registered six Recognised Market Operators (RMOs) to establish and operate DAXs in Malaysia.
These registered exchanges have met the SC’s stringent requirements.
Moreover, they are authorised to offer a range of services related to digital assets. Investors must deal only with SC-approved exchanges to ensure the safety of their investments.
Below is the list of registered DAXs in Malaysia:
HATA Digital Sdn Bhd
HATA Digital Sdn Bhd is a relatively new player in the Malaysian crypto exchange scene. David Low, KK Chong, and Darien Ng founded it.
HATA aims to provide a secure and user-friendly platform and it caters to both individuals and institutions who need to navigate the world of cryptocurrencies.
Their mission centres on building trust and simplifying the crypto experience. Ultimately, they are making it accessible to a wider audience.
Tokens Provided: Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereal (ETH), XRP (XRP), Solana (SOL), Cardano (ADA), Avalanche (AVAX), Chainlink (LINK), Stellar Lumen (XLM), Uniswap (UNI), Bitcoin Cash (BCH), Litecoin (LTC), Polygon (MATIC), Aave (AAVE), Maker (MKR), Curve (CRV), Synthetic (SNX), Worldcoin (WLD), Cosmos (ATOM), and Polkadot (DOT). Source: Hata MYR Market.
Luno Malaysia Sdn Bhd
Luno Malaysia Sdn Bhd is a well-established and popular cryptocurrency exchange in Malaysia. As part of the global Luno platform, they have a strong international presence.
Luno serve millions of customers in over 40 different countries.
The company emphasises security, ease of use, and educational resources making them suitable for beginners and experienced crypto investors.
Tokens Provided: Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), XRP (XRP), Solana (SOL), Maker (MKR), Aave (AAVE), Curve (CRV), Polkadot (DOT), Polygon (MATIC), Avalanche (AVAX), Cardano (ADA), Chainlink (LINK), Uniswap (UNI), Litecoin (LTC) and Bitcoin Cash (BCH). – Source: Luno Price.
MX Global Sdn Bhd
MX Global Sdn Bhd is another regulated crypto exchange in Malaysia, known for its secure and accessible platform.
They have received strategic investment from Binance, one of the world’s largest crypto exchanges, further strengthening their position in the market.
MX Global focuses on providing a seamless trading experience with a limited selection of popular cryptocurrencies.
Tokens Provided: Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), XRP (XRP), Solana (SOL) and Worldcoin (WLD). – Source: MX Exchange Market.
SINEGY DAX Sdn Bhd
SINEGY DAX Sdn Bhd is a Malaysian-owned and operated digital asset exchange that focuses on trading and cater to both retail and institutional traders.
They offer a range of trading tools and features with one of them being called the “SINEGY Marketplace“, a platform that allows users to directly buy and sell cryptocurrencies using Malaysian Ringgit (MYR).
SINEGY also have a unique rewards programme that incentivises active trading.
Tokens Provided: Bitcoin (BTC) and Ethereum (ETH) – Source: SINEGY Marketplace.
Tokenize Technology (M) Sdn Bhd
Tokenize Technology (M) Sdn Bhd is an exchange that supports a diverse selection of cryptocurrencies, which provide their users with ample investment options.
Their platform is designed to be user-friendly for both beginners and experienced traders. Tokenize also places a strong emphasis on user education.
On a plus note, they also offer resources and guides to help investors make much rather informed decisions.
Tokens Provided: Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), Bitcoin Cash (BCH). Litecoin (LTC), Ripple (XRP), Uniswap (UNI) and Solana (SOL). Source: Tokenize Exchange.
Torum International Sdn Bhd
Torum International Sdn Bhd stands out with its community-driven approach.
They are currently building a SocialFi Metaverse ecosystem, that is able to connect crypto enthusiasts worldwide which fosters critical and in depth discussions about cryptocurrencies.
The aim of the platform is to create a more engaging crypto experience.
Not to forget, Torum is one of the companies that receives financial backing from notable investors like KuCoin Labs and Huobi Ventures.
Tokens Provided: Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), Avalanche (AVAX), Chainlink (LINK), Polygon (MATIC) and XRP (XRP). Source: Torum Pay.
Digital Asset Custodians (DACs)
In addition to regulated crypto exchanges in Malaysia, Digital Asset Custodians (DACs) play a vital role in Malaysia’s digital asset ecosystem.
DACs are entities that safeguard digital assets on behalf of investors, offering secure storage and management solutions. They act as trusted third parties, ensuring the safety and integrity of investors’ digital holdings.
The SC has established guidelines for DACs, requiring them to register and comply with stringent security and operational standards.
This regulatory oversight ensures that DACs operate responsibly and transparently, providing investors with confidence in the safety of their digital assets.
Here are the the full record of the DACs that are regulated by the SC:
CoKeeps Sdn Bhd
CoKeeps Sdn Bhd is a pioneering company in the Malaysian digital asset space. They are the first regulated digital asset custodian (DAC) in Malaysia, approved by the Securities Commission Malaysia (SC).
CoKeeps specialises in providing secure custody solutions for digital assets like cryptocurrencies.
They offer institutional-grade security measures. They utilise decentralised security and multi-party computation technology to protect digital assets from theft, loss, or unauthorised access.
Gambit Custody Sdn Bhd
Gambit Custody Sdn Bhd is another key player in Malaysia’s digital asset ecosystem.
The company provides secure storage and management solutions for various digital assets. This includes cryptocurrencies and tokenised assets.
They act as a trusted third party to safeguard these assets.
Jada Platform Sdn Bhd
Jada Platform Sdn Bhd is a relatively new but significant entrant into the landscape of regulated crypto exchanges in Malaysia.
They offer secure and dependable custody solutions for digital assets and provide a variety of services, including digital asset custody, institutional services, issuer services, and other services.
Octowill Sdn Bhd
Octowill Sdn Bhd is a Malaysian company that offers a unique and modern approach to estate planning and inheritance management.
They leverage blockchain technology to provide secure and efficient solutions for both traditional and digital assets.
Their DAC services are integrated with their estate planning tools. When you create a will or e-Nomination with Octowill, your digital assets are automatically placed under their secure custody.
Initial Exchange Offering (IEO) Operators
IEOs are a digital fundraising method where a startup sells digital tokens to investors through a cryptocurrency exchange. In Malaysia, IEOs are regulated by the Securities Commission Malaysia (SC).
The SC has issued the Guidelines on Digital Assets (DA Guidelines) to regulate IEOs. Malaysia’s IEOs include:
Kapital DX Sdn Bhd
Kapital DX Sdn Bhd (KLDX) is making waves in Malaysia as a being Malaysia’s first registered Initial Exchange Offering (IEO) operator.
They provide a platform for companies to raise capital by issuing digital tokens.
KLDX operates under the oversight of the SC. Thus, they ensure compliance with regulations and provide investor protection.
They offer a new way for companies to raise funds. This is by issuing digital tokens, which can represent equity, debt, or other assets.
Pitch Platforms Sdn Bhd (pitchIN)
Pitch Platforms Sdn Bhd is another significant player in Malaysia’s IEO landscape.
They operate the well-known equity crowdfunding platform pitchIN which as of today, has now expanded to include IEOs.
Pitch Platforms have a strong track record with pitchIN, having facilitated numerous successful equity crowdfunding campaigns in Malaysia. This experience positions them well to support IEOs.
Importance of Choosing Regulated Crypto Exchanges and Service Providers
The cryptocurrency market in Malaysia is evolving rapidly. Therefore, choosing regulated crypto exchanges in Malaysia is paramount for a safe and secure investment experience.
The registered DAXs, DACs, and IEO operators mentioned offer diverse features and cater to various investor profiles.
So, whether you’re choosing a crypto exchange, custodian, or IEO operator, opting for a regulated entity in Malaysia offers several crucial advantages.
Remember, security is a top priority and regulated entities always adhere to strict security standards issued by the SC, in order to safeguard your funds and personal information.
Compliance is another key benefit, as these entities comply with anti-money laundering (AML) and know-your-customer (KYC) regulations, promoting transparency and preventing illicit activities.
The SC’s regulatory framework also provides a level of investor protection, ensuring fair practices and dispute resolution mechanisms.
Additionally, regulated entities contribute to the overall stability of the digital asset market in Malaysia, fostering trust and confidence among investors.
By understanding the regulatory landscape and the offerings of each entity, investors can make informed decisions and confidently participate in the exciting world of cryptocurrencies in Malaysia.
Last Update 12.December 2024
Featured image credit: Edited from Freepik