The service will allow cardholders to simply hold their iPhone or Apple Watch near a payment terminal to make a contactless payment. The transaction is secure as it is authenticated with Face ID, Touch ID, or a device passcode, as well as a one-time unique dynamic security code.

Visa Malaysia country manager Ng Kong Boon said that over the past two years, digital payments have accelerated in Malaysia, fast-tracking the country towards being a cashless society.

“We believe Apple Pay, with its secure, private and easy PIN-less experience, will be well-received,” he said in a statement.

The service also extends to online purchases via iPhone, iPad and Mac, saving consumers the hassle of creating accounts and repeatedly filling in their billing and shipping details.

“With Apple Pay, customers get the added benefit and assurance that their transactions are not just easy and convenient, but also secure and private,” said Ng.

In a separate statement, Maybank said the introduction of Apple Pay was part of its efforts to expand its retail digital offerings, and will be available for Maybank and Maybank Islamic Mastercard as well as its Visa credit, debit and prepaid cards, with Maybank American Express Cards to follow soon.

Community financial services’ group CEO John Chong said the move reflects the bank’s commitment to provide seamless digital payment options for its customers.

“With our growing presence in this business segment, and supported by a combined card user base of 15 million across both markets, Maybank is well placed to leverage on the ease, safety and privacy of Apple Pay that would benefit our customers in (Malaysia and Singapore),” he said.