Baccarat is one of the most popular casino card games played by Malaysian players online in 2026. Whether you're stepping into an online casino for the first time or switching from other table games, this guide covers everything you need to know about how to play baccarat in Malaysia — from the basic rules to advanced betting options.
Understanding Baccarat Basics
Baccarat is a comparing card game played between two hands: the Player and the Banker. Each round (called a coup) has three possible outcomes — Player wins, Banker wins, or Tie. Your job as a bettor is simply to predict which hand will have a total closest to 9.
Unlike blackjack, you don't make decisions about hitting or standing. The dealing follows fixed rules, making baccarat one of the simplest casino games to learn.
Baccarat Card Values
| Card | Value |
|---|---|
| Ace | 1 |
| 2–9 | Face value |
| 10, Jack, Queen, King | 0 |
If the total exceeds 9, only the second digit counts. For example, a hand of 7 + 8 = 15 has a baccarat value of 5.
Step-by-Step: How a Baccarat Round Works
- Place your bet — Choose Player, Banker, or Tie before the cards are dealt.
- Initial deal — Two cards are dealt to both the Player hand and the Banker hand.
- Check for a natural — If either hand totals 8 or 9, it's called a "natural" and no more cards are drawn.
- Third card rules — If neither hand has a natural, a third card may be drawn based on fixed drawing rules (the tableau).
- Compare totals — The hand closest to 9 wins. Winning bets are paid out accordingly.
Baccarat Bet Types and Payouts
| Bet Type | Payout | House Edge |
|---|---|---|
| Player | 1:1 | 1.24% |
| Banker | 0.95:1 (5% commission) | 1.06% |
| Tie | 8:1 | 14.36% |
The Banker bet has the lowest house edge, which is why most experienced baccarat players in Malaysia favour this option. The Tie bet offers high payouts but comes with a significantly higher house edge.
Third Card Drawing Rules (The Tableau)
You don't need to memorise these rules as the dealer handles everything automatically in online baccarat. However, understanding the tableau helps you follow the game:
Player Third Card Rule
- If the Player's initial total is 0–5, the Player draws a third card.
- If the Player's total is 6 or 7, the Player stands.
Banker Third Card Rule
The Banker's action depends on both the Banker's total and the Player's third card. In general:
- Banker draws on 0–2 regardless of the Player's third card.
- Banker stands on 7.
- For totals 3–6, the Banker's draw depends on the value of the Player's third card.
Baccarat Variants Available in Malaysia
Online casinos like 96M offer several baccarat variants to Malaysian players:
- Classic Baccarat — The standard version with Player, Banker, and Tie bets.
- Speed Baccarat — Faster rounds (25 seconds per round) for players who prefer a quicker pace.
- Squeeze Baccarat — The dealer slowly reveals cards for added suspense.
- No Commission Baccarat — Banker bets pay even money (1:1), but Banker wins with a total of 6 pay 50%.
- Lightning Baccarat — Random multipliers of up to 512x are applied to winning hands each round.
Tips for Baccarat Beginners in Malaysia
- Start with the Banker bet — it has the best odds statistically.
- Avoid the Tie bet unless you're looking for a high-risk thrill.
- Set a bankroll limit before you start playing.
- Try free or demo baccarat games first to get comfortable.
- Use baccarat scorecards (roads) to observe trends, but remember each hand is independent.
Ready to Play Baccarat Online?
Join 96M today and access live baccarat tables with professional dealers, low minimum bets, and welcome bonuses for Malaysian players.
Register at 96MFrequently Asked Questions
Is baccarat legal to play online in Malaysia?
Many Malaysian players access offshore online casinos like 96M to play baccarat. These platforms operate under international gaming licences and serve Malaysian players with MYR currency support.
What is the minimum bet for baccarat at 96M?
Minimum bets vary by table. Standard live baccarat tables typically start from RM 10, while VIP tables may have higher minimums.
Can I play baccarat on my phone?
Yes. 96M is fully optimised for mobile browsers, so you can play live baccarat on your smartphone or tablet without downloading an app.