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Is MEXC Legal in Malaysia? What You Need to Know

If you’re exploring cryptocurrency exchanges and wondering, “Is MEXC legal in Malaysia?”, you’re in the right place. This question is critical for anyone looking to trade cryptocurrencies safely and within the bounds of Malaysian law. In this article, we’ll dive straight into the legal status of MEXC in Malaysia, how the Malaysian government regulates cryptocurrencies, and what you need to know before using MEXC or any crypto platform in the country.

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What is MEXC?

MEXC, short for MXC Exchange, is a global cryptocurrency trading platform known for its wide selection of digital assets and advanced trading features. It offers spot trading, futures, margin trading, and a user-friendly interface that appeals to both beginners and professional traders. With over 1,000 cryptocurrencies available, MEXC has grown rapidly, becoming one of the top exchanges worldwide.

But popularity alone does not determine whether an exchange is legal or safe in any specific country, including Malaysia.

The Legal Status of Cryptocurrency in Malaysia

To understand if MEXC is legal in Malaysia, we first need to look at how Malaysia regulates cryptocurrencies in general.

Cryptocurrency regulation in Malaysia is managed primarily by the Securities Commission Malaysia (SC) and the Central Bank of Malaysia (Bank Negara Malaysia, BNM). These institutions have set clear guidelines to govern the use, trading, and offering of digital assets.

Cryptocurrency is Legal but Regulated

Malaysia recognizes cryptocurrencies as digital assets rather than legal tender. This means you can own, trade, and invest in cryptocurrencies legally, but certain rules apply.

The Securities Commission Malaysia introduced a regulatory framework called the Digital Asset Guidelines which became effective in 2019. This framework mandates that cryptocurrency exchanges operating in Malaysia must be registered and licensed by the SC to ensure consumer protection and prevent illegal activities such as money laundering and fraud.

What Does This Mean for Crypto Exchanges?

Only cryptocurrency exchanges that are registered with the SC and comply with its regulations are considered fully legal to operate in Malaysia. These exchanges must meet strict requirements regarding transparency, security, and financial integrity.

Unlicensed exchanges operating in Malaysia are not authorized, and using them carries risks including lack of legal protection, potential loss of funds, and possible breaches of local laws.

Is MEXC Registered or Licensed in Malaysia?

As of now, MEXC is not licensed or registered by the Securities Commission Malaysia. This means that while Malaysians can technically access and use MEXC’s platform (since it is a global online platform accessible via the internet), MEXC is not officially authorized to operate within Malaysia’s regulatory framework.

This does not mean MEXC is illegal in Malaysia per se, but it means it is an unregulated exchange from the perspective of Malaysian law.

What Are the Risks of Using MEXC in Malaysia?

Since MEXC is not licensed locally, users should be aware of the potential risks:

  1. No Regulatory Protection: If you experience problems like platform failure, hacking, or disputes, you have no local regulatory authority to turn to for support or resolution.

  2. Legal Ambiguity: While holding or trading crypto is legal, engaging with unlicensed exchanges can sometimes fall into a gray area, especially if the platform does not comply with anti-money laundering (AML) and know-your-customer (KYC) regulations.

  3. Potential for Account Restrictions: Authorities may monitor unregulated exchanges, and there is a chance of future crackdowns or access restrictions.

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How to Safely Use Cryptocurrency Exchanges in Malaysia

If you decide to trade cryptocurrencies in Malaysia, it’s safest to use exchanges that are registered and regulated by the Securities Commission Malaysia. Some examples include:

  • Luno Malaysia

  • Tokenize

  • SINEGY

These platforms comply with local laws, enforce KYC checks, and follow AML regulations, offering more security and legal protection.

Can Malaysians Use MEXC Despite Lack of Licensing?

Technically, Malaysians can use MEXC’s global platform because it operates online without geographical restrictions. However, this comes with caveats:

  • You should conduct thorough research about the platform.

  • Use strong security practices, such as enabling two-factor authentication (2FA).

  • Avoid depositing large sums of money to minimize potential losses.

  • Be prepared for possible changes if Malaysian authorities decide to restrict unlicensed platforms.

Malaysian Government’s Stance on Cryptocurrency Exchanges

The Malaysian government encourages innovation and the growth of blockchain technology but remains cautious about investor protection. The SC regularly updates regulations and guidance to balance innovation with security.

They actively warn Malaysians about scams and unlicensed platforms, urging users to verify the legitimacy of any exchange before trading.

Conclusion: Is MEXC Legal in Malaysia?

In summary, MEXC is not officially licensed or regulated in Malaysia, so it is not considered a legally authorized exchange under Malaysian law. Malaysians can access the platform, but doing so comes with legal and financial risks. For safe and secure trading, it is strongly recommended to use exchanges registered with the Securities Commission Malaysia.

If you value regulatory oversight, consumer protection, and peace of mind, stick to licensed platforms. However, if you choose to trade on MEXC, do so cautiously and be fully aware of the risks involved.

✅ Trade with MEXC now: Open An Account 👈

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