Rantau Panjang is one of Malaysia’s 24 officially gazetted duty-free zones under the Free Zones Act 1990. In this area, import duties and certain taxes are either exempted or reduced, allowing retailers to offer lower prices and consumers to enjoy more affordable goods. If you’re planning a visit, here are some must-visit shops to check out.
5 Popular Shop In Rantau Panjang For Cheap Goods
1. Minotex (M) Sdn. Bhd.
Popular among catering businesses, Minotex offers a wide range of kitchen essentials at prices lower than Kuala Lumpur. From plates to bowls, you can even buy in bulk, but plan to arrive early as most shops close by 6pm.
2. Supo Langkawi Duty Free
Supo Langkawi Duty Free also stocks kitchen essentials like Minotex, but takes it a step further by offering snacks and sweets. You don’t need to travel to Langkawi to grab affordable chocolates. You can also find delicious Thai nuts and biscuits that are perfect for snacking.
3. Hana Doorgift Shop
For soon-to-be newlyweds, Hana Doorgift Shop is a go-to for affordable wedding supplies. They offer items like bunga telur (traditional wedding eggs) and a variety of wedding gifts, making it easy to prepare for your big day.
4. Mydin Wholesale Emporium
A favorite among locals for groceries, Mydin Wholesale Emporium offers many imported products at lower prices due to the duty-free status. It’s a one-stop shop for daily necessities and additional household items under one roof.
5. The Red Warriors RP Store
Football fans can score jerseys from their favorite teams at The Red Warriors RP Store. From local clubs to international teams, this store has a wide range of football merchandise.
What You Should Know About Duty-Free Zones
Shopping in a duty-free zone like Rantau Panjang can help you save money. The zone has been operating since 1990 under the Free Zones Act 1990.
However, “duty-free” does not mean exempt from all taxes. While tax exemptions apply within the zone, once you leave, normal Malaysian customs rules are enforced. Under the Customs Act 1967, areas outside the duty-free zone remain under the jurisdiction of the Royal Malaysian Customs Department (JKDM), who have the authority to inspect your purchases and determine if taxes are applicable.
How Customs Determines Tax
For household goods like cookware, pots, rice cookers, bedding, curtains, and similar items, there is no fixed exemption limit like the one-litre rule for alcohol. Customs officers assess whether the goods are for personal use or commercial purposes.
The assessment depends on the type, quantity, and value of items. For example, buying one rice cooker versus 20 could trigger questions about whether all 20 are for personal use or resale.
If you cannot prove personal use, Customs has the right to impose duties or taxes based on the declared value. The easiest way to check is through EZHS. For an electric rice cooker, the tax rate is typically 20% per unit.
Why Declaring Taxable Items Is Important
If your purchase exceeds what is considered personal use, you are required to declare it at the customs checkpoint when leaving the duty-free zone. Failing to declare can result in confiscation.
Always keep your receipts, as officers may request proof before applying any duties or taxes. Transparency ensures a smoother exit and avoids penalties.
In short, duty-free shopping offers savings but comes with limits. Large quantities intended for commercial use are subject to standard tax rules.
Bateriku in Rantau Panjang
Bateriku has a branch in Rantau Panjang at Pt 2161, Taman Jaya Indah, 17200 Rantau Panjang, Kelantan, offering walk-in vehicle battery purchases. Bateriku Rantau Panjang store operates daily from 7am to 12 midnight.
For roadside assistance, call +60193002308 or +601116006008.
Bateriku also provides nationwide battery installation services. Using a comprehensive database, they can identify your vehicle type and recommend the right battery.
Beyond on-demand battery delivery, Bateriku offers roadside services including jump-starts, fuel refills, lockouts, tire repairs or replacements, and towing services to nearby workshops if needed.
