Tencent’s WeChat wallet is luring Malaysian users with free money —Tech In Asia
What happened: After presenting a localized version of WeChat Wallet in Malaysia in June, the service has kicked off a promotion for this entire week that will be rewarding users with virtual money gifts known in China as “hongbao.” Similar to its China version, WeChat Wallet offers linking bank accounts, topping up phone cards, and buying plane and train tickets but the functions are still limited in comparison.
Why it’s important: WeChat said earlier that its wallet will mostly be targeting Chinese tourists but now it seems that the company is changing its course towards capturing the international market. Malaysia is the first country after China and Hong Kong where WeChat has rolled out a local version. As a payment method, WeChat Pay is accepted in over 40 countries and regions where it serves Chinese tourists, according to the company.