For comparison purposes only. Final terms are determined by the issuing bank.
Review
The Lowest Barrier to Global Lounge Access
The CIMB Travel Platinum Credit Card sits at the entry point of CIMB’s travel card lineup, with a minimum income requirement of just RM24,000 per annum. Rather than positioning itself as a mileage-accumulation tool, this card’s primary value lies in providing affordable access to premium travel privileges that are typically reserved for higher-tier cards.
The standout feature is its global airport lounge access. Cardholders can unlock up to four complimentary lounge visits per year, including access to selected Plaza Premium Lounges worldwide and even Plaza Premium First locations. Each visit requires a minimum spend of RM3,000 per calendar quarter, making the benefit predictable but conditional. For users who travel a few times a year and can plan their spending around these thresholds, the value proposition is unusually strong for an entry-level card.
In addition to lounge access, the card offers a RM65 Grab airport transfer promo code for Malaysia-based airport rides. This benefit is unlocked by meeting a RM3,000 spend within 90 days from the date the promo code is issued, adding tangible cash value to occasional travellers. Travel insurance coverage of up to RM1 million further strengthens the card’s travel-oriented positioning.
While the card earns 5x Bonus Points on airlines, duty-free purchases, and overseas spending, its mileage conversion rates are relatively average. As such, this card is better viewed as a travel access card rather than a primary miles-earning tool, especially for users with lower spending power.
Verdict: The CIMB Travel Platinum is best suited for low- to mid-income travellers who prioritise lounge access and practical travel perks over aggressive mileage accumulation. For users who can meet the quarterly spend requirements without strain, it offers one of the most accessible gateways to premium airport experiences in Malaysia.
Pros
- One of the lowest income requirements among cards with global lounge access
- Up to 4 complimentary Plaza Premium Lounge visits per year, including Plaza Premium First
- RM65 Grab airport transfer promo code with achievable spend conditions
- Free-for-life with no annual fee
- Includes travel insurance coverage up to RM1 million
Cons
- RM3,000 quarterly spend required to unlock each lounge visit
- Miles conversion rates are average compared to dedicated miles cards
- Not suitable as a primary card for long-term mileage accumulation
- Bonus point structure is less rewarding for local everyday spending
Rewards Points
Rewards rates, caps and eligibility are subject to bank-defined terms and conditions.
Information is compiled independently and may not always reflect the latest updates. Please refer to the relevant official website for final and up-to-date details.
Points Conversion
Best CPM is calculated based on the highest earn rate available. A lower CPM indicates better value.
Information is compiled independently and may not always reflect the latest updates. Please refer to the relevant official website for final and up-to-date details.
Points Redemption
Standard CIMB credit card points program. Can redeem for cash, vouchers, or airline miles.
Airport Lounge Access
Program Name
Plaza Premium Group
Annual Visits
Eligible users
Access type
Spend to EarnRequirement
Min. spend RM 3,000 within a quarter to earn 1 visit
Applicable locations:
Program Name
Sky Lounge
Annual Visits
Eligible users
Access type
Spending RequiredRequirement
Min. spend RM 2,000
Applicable locations:
Lounge access is subject to bank-defined terms and may change over time.
For the full lounge list, please refer to the relevant official website.
Card benefits
Plaza Premium Lounge Access
1x complimentary access per quarter to participating Plaza Premium Lounge in Malaysia and abroad
Travel Insurance
Comprehensive travel insurance worth up to RM1 million including travel inconveniences and overseas hospitalisation due to COVID-19
E-commerce Purchase Protection
Up to USD200 worldwide coverage for online purchases
Grab Airport Transfer
1x Grab Promo Code 'CIMBTRAVEL' worth RM65 per quarter to/from selected airports in Malaysia