Malaysian Telegram channels to follow
Chances are, you’ve stumbled upon this article because you’re an avid user of Telegram. You probably already know all the Telegram hacks and have subscribed to useful Telegram channels and bots for local lobangs.
Well, we’ve got one more list. This time, it’s which Telegram channels to follow before you travel to Malaysia. From deals on food to live updates on the Causeway into JB, here are the best Malaysian Telegram channels to follow.
The current exchange rate is RM1 = ~S$3.35 as of 16th August 2024.
Table of Contents
What is Telegram?
Telegram is an instant messaging platform which you can download from the App Store and Google Play. Meanwhile, Web Telegram allows you to download the desktop app, or chat directly from your browser if you wish.
The service is free to use and allows seamless communication across your various devices, but they also offer Telegram Premium which is an optional paid subscription.
The top-up unlocks additional features such as faster download speeds, increased limits for file uploads, and more customisation tools like premium stickers, emoji statuses, and animated profile pics. Telegram Premium is priced S$5.49/month. You can get that cost down to S$3.24/month if you purchase an annual subscription at S$38.99.
What are Telegram channels?
Telegram channels are a way for businesses or communities to conveniently broadcast messages to a large audience at the same time. Channels that you join sit in your Chats bar on the Telegram interface so you can get a quick glance at all the updates, and you’ll also be pinged just like with regular messages so you get first dibs on exciting news.
How to join a Telegram channel
On mobile: Open the Telegram channel and press the “Join” button at the bottom of the chat box
On desktop: Open the Telegram channel and press the “Join channel” button at the bottom of the chat box, or on the Channel Info panel on the right.
Tip: You can easily join some of the most useful Telegram channels with a click here.
1. MY Food Promos
Food promos & discounts all over Malaysia
We’re not about to start a war over whether or not Singapore or Malaysia’s food is better. But one thing is for certain – we’re all foodies here. If you’re heading up north to makan, be sure to follow MY Food Promos first.
You’ll get first dibs on discounts and promos available such as 1-for-1 burritos from Taco Bell and an all-you-can-eat buffet for just RM15. The Telegram channel also has food guides like where to find the best cafes or dim sum, and round-ups of fresh openings so you can visit new spots every trip.
Join MY Food Promos.
MY Food Promos is available in Bahasa Malaysia too. MY Makan Murah has the same deals and promos, just translated into the national language.
Join MY Makan Murah.
2. KL Weekend Plans
Events happening around Kuala Lumpur
So, you’ve booked your bus service from Singapore to Kuala Lumpur for the long weekend ahead. Now what? If you’ve got gaps in your itinerary, check out KL Weekend Plans. You’ll receive a slew of updates on events happening in KL such as museum exhibitions, pop-ups, and concerts. Check back often, as subscribers are even privy to info like warehouse sales.
Join KL Weekend Plans.
3. SOGO Malaysia
Updates on SOGO department store sales
The SOGO Malaysia Telegram channel is a must for shoppers who frequent the department store chain in JB and KL to stock up on bargains. Skip the leg work and have all the latest sales and new arrival announcements sent straight to your Telegram app.
The channel is regularly updated with promo listings, atrium fairs, and the highly anticipated clearance sales. Now you can plan your retail pilgrimage with maximum efficiency.
Join SOGO Malaysia.
4. Malaysiakini
Daily news updates in Malaysia
Frequent travellers to Malaysia will want to pin Malaysiakini to the top of their Telegram app to keep abreast of daily happenings around the country. The English newspaper sends out ICYMI summaries of the top news headlines thrice a day. If you need more info, you’ll find the full article linked under each headline.
Join Malaysiakini.
Similar to MY Food Promos and MY Makan Murah, Malaysiakini also has a Bahasa Malaysia version called Malaysiakini BM if you prefer to consume news in Melayu.
Join Malaysiakini BM.
5. Penang Hidden Gems
Community-led tours & interest group hangouts
Penang Hidden Gems is a hidden gem of a Telegram channel indeed, with just over 200 members at the time of writing. The group shares community hangouts and guided tours in Penang for various interests, from history and culture to street food and Nanyang coffee.
Because the activities are community-led and small scale, rates are cheaper compared to more formal tour groups. Give it a follow if you’re in need of new things to do in Penang; tours can be priced as low as RM15.
Join Penang Hidden Gems.
6. SG Hitch JB
Match drivers & hitchers for trips across the border
If your day trip plans to JB aren’t manifesting outside the group chat, it might be time to take a solo trip across the border. Now you could take a bus from Singapore to JB, but for a more comfortable journey, try hitching a ride via SG Hitch JB.
The Telegram channel matches hitchers with drivers to and from JB. Prices range from S$20-S$50/pax, but community members usually ask to be private messaged (PM) to discuss a fee that works for both ends.
Join SG Hitch JB.
7. SG Custom
Live updates on traffic conditions & traffic police
Before you make your way to JB, it’s best to check ahead on traffic conditions. Lest you want to be caught in a 7-hour queue at the Johor checkpoint, follow SG Custom for traffic and customs info. It’s also worth a follow to find out more about road conditions, as well as where police bikes and speed cameras are located, so you won’t kena saman out of the blue.
Join SG Custom.
Malaysian Telegram channels for a fuss-free trip
There ya have it. With these Malaysian Telegram channels, you’ll be caught up on what’s going on in our neighbour to the north. And if you don’t have Telegram yet, maybe this will change your mind about getting this super app.
Read more digital hacks and tips:
Last updated by Renae Cheng on 16th August 2024.