In line with Malaysia's central bank policy, banks are now offering free Instant Interbank Fund Transfer (IBFT).

Last December, Bank Negara announced instant bank transfer fees would be waived effective July 1 to encourage the move towards a cashless society.

A check of several banks showed most had followed the instructions, though with varying terms and conditions.

CIMB Bank Bhd was one of the first, offering free online transfers through its online banking platform and mobile apps regardless of the transaction amount, as of April 25.

Public Bank Bhd has also made Interbank GIRO (IBG) and IBFT free for conventional and Islamic accounts, as of June 13.

RHB Bank Bhd allows for free IBFT but still charges 10sen for IBG.

Maybank also does not charge for IBFT as long as the amount is RM5,000 and under.

BNM recently announced that the instant transfer fee of 50 sen would be waived for payments of up to RM5,000 per transaction by individuals and small and medium enterprises, effective July 1, 2018.

However, the cheque fee would be increased from 50sen to RM1, beginning Jan 2, 2021, to reflect the higher processing cost.