Taobao Malaysia, a leading Chinese e-commerce platform, has announced a significant step toward localizing its services for Malaysian users. The company plans to roll out a Bahasa Malaysia interface for its app by June 2025, making online shopping more accessible and seamless for non-Mandarin and non-English-speaking Malaysians. This move follows the successful launch of an English-language interface in September 2024, marking another milestone in Taobao’s commitment to catering to Malaysia’s diverse linguistic preferences.
Why a Malay-Language Interface Matters
The introduction of a Bahasa Malaysia interface is a strategic effort to align with Malaysia’s cultural and linguistic landscape. With Bahasa Malaysia being the national language, this update will empower a broader audience to navigate the Taobao app effortlessly. Jess Lew, Country Head of Taobao Malaysia, emphasized, “Our planned introduction of a Malay-language interface will mark another significant milestone in Taobao’s localisation journey and reinforce our platform’s commitment to providing every Malaysian user with a more accessible, seamless, and worry-free shopping experience.”
This development comes at a time when Taobao’s popularity is surging globally. As of April 16, 2025, the app ranked as the second-most downloaded shopping app on Malaysia’s iOS App Store, reflecting strong local interest and trust in the platform. The Malay-language interface is expected to further boost user engagement by removing language barriers for millions of potential shoppers.
Building on the Success of the English Interface
In September 2024, Taobao launched an AI-powered English-language interface in Malaysia and Singapore, a first for the platform historically available only in Mandarin. The English beta interface, which includes detailed product descriptions and price conversions in Malaysian Ringgit (RM), has been well-received for simplifying cross-border shopping. The app also offers bilingual customer service in English and Chinese, ensuring users can resolve queries with ease.
The upcoming Malay-language interface will likely incorporate similar AI-driven translations to provide accurate and user-friendly content. By offering product descriptions, navigation, and customer support in Bahasa Malaysia, Taobao aims to create a more inclusive shopping experience tailored to local needs.
Enhanced Shopping Experience for Malaysians
Taobao Malaysia’s localization efforts extend beyond language. The platform has integrated robust payment and logistics solutions to ensure a seamless shopping journey. Malaysian users can choose from various payment options, including:
Debit and credit cards
Online banking
E-wallets like Touch ‘n Go eWallet and Apple Pay
Instalment plans
Supported by Alibaba’s logistics arm, Cainiao, Taobao offers reliable delivery with order tracking available directly in the app for transparency. Additionally, new users can enjoy promotional vouchers, such as a platform-wide shopping voucher worth RMB20 (approximately RM12.19) and free returns within 15 days for first-time returns.
Global Popularity and Local Relevance
Taobao’s global reach is undeniable, with the app recently ranking as the second-most downloaded shopping app in the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom, and claiming the top spot in France. In Malaysia, the platform’s focus on localization—through language support, currency conversion, and tailored promotions—has resonated with consumers seeking affordable, high-quality products directly from Chinese vendors.
The introduction of a Malay-language interface is poised to strengthen Taobao’s position in Malaysia’s competitive e-commerce market, rivaling platforms like Shopee and Lazada. By prioritizing user accessibility, Taobao is setting a new standard for cross-border online shopping.
How to Get Started with Taobao
The Taobao app is available for free download on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. Existing users can switch to the Malay-language interface once it launches in June 2025 by updating the app and adjusting their language settings. Follow Taobao Malaysia on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, or X for the latest updates on the launch and exclusive promotions.
Conclusion
Taobao Malaysia’s upcoming Bahasa Malaysia interface, set to launch in June 2025, underscores the platform’s dedication to making online shopping inclusive and convenient for all Malaysians. By breaking down language barriers and enhancing user experience with AI-driven features, Taobao is poised to redefine e-commerce in Malaysia. Whether you’re a seasoned shopper or new to the platform, this update promises to make exploring Taobao’s vast product offerings easier than ever.