The Malay Mail conducted a street poll around Petaling Jaya with many consumers sharing the same sentiments.

Insurance agent Saiful Hishammudin, 31, said the uncanny resemblance between old and new coins caused confusion to consumers because of their appearance.

“To be honest, I’d rather use the old coins,” he said.

Business owner Suraya Supiah, 29, said it is difficult to differentiate between the new coins and new notes too.

“I have to take extra time to make sure I count the notes properly as the one ringgit note tends to stick to each other,” she said.

She said Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) should have called for a full review with local businesses, because since the new currency’s introduction in 2012, many vending machines and automated machines do not accept new coins or notes.

“It is a hassle and costly to business owners.

“BNM should have considered it before introducing it to consumers,” she said.

“The new coins look like arcade tokens, they don’t even feel like real money.”

Tour guide Billy Woo, 70, said he faced difficulties when using the new coins because they resemble toy coins.

“The coins are so light that they don’t feel like they have any value,” he said.

“My eyesight is not so good, so I have to check the coins numerous times before giving them out because the coins are so similar and the design is not imprinted deep enough for me to tell the difference just by touch,” he said.

“I would rather use the old coins, because I can tell the difference easily.”

The new coins have been circulating with the existing coins since Jan 16, 2012.

The 20 sen and 50 sen coins are almost identical in colour, diameter and tone but with the 50 sen coin has jagged edge with nine indentations.

The 50 sen coin is made of nickel brass-clad copper, while the 20 sen coin is made of nickel brass.

Meanwhile, the new five sen and 10 sen coins are made from stainless steel and are nearly identical in size and look.

In a statement, BNM said it was cognisant that it would take time for the public to get used to the new coins.

“The new coins have enhanced security features, are lighter and smaller, making them more convenient and user friendly.”

BNM said it has been engaging with retailers and parking operators to calibrate or upgrade their machines to accept new coins.

If an upgrade of machines is impossible, BNM has urged retailers to replace their machines to accept new coins.

“Alternatively, payment mechanism such as Touch ‘n Go can be provided by operators for public convenience.”

When enough new coins enter circulation, BNM will withdraw the old coins.

“In due course, the public will have only new coins to use, so we urge you to be more familiar with them.”