Basics
Operators
Malaysia has 4 GSM based national network operators:
- DiGi (prepaid brand: Digi Live)
- Maxis (prepaid brand: Hotlink)
- Celcom (prepaid brand: Xpax)
- U Mobile
3 further providers only operate an own 4G/LTE network:
- Yes (on 4G/TD-LTE in West Malaysia only)
- UniFi (by Telekom Malaysia, on own 4G/LTE and 2G/3G roaming on Celcom)
- Altel Communications (on own 4G/LTE and 2G/3G roaming on Celcom)
Other operators are MVNOs which are OneXOX, Tune Talk, XOX Mobile, SpeakOut, Friendi mobile, redONE and Buzzme. There are some WiMAX-based network operators like AsiaSpace which are not compatible with GSM services.
Coverage
Coverage varies from very good in the populated areas of the peninsula to very patchy even on 2G in Borneo and other remote islands:
| Operator | Market | Coverage of Population | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Share | 3G | 4G/LTE | |
| DiGi | 27 % | 89 % | 87 % |
| Maxis | 26 % | 91 % | 92 % |
| Celcom | 22 % | 88 % | 76 % |
| U Mobile | 14 % | ? | 27 % |
Coverage data supplied by the operators in 2018, market data by MCMC in 2017.
U Mobile has the smallest own network, but roams on Maxis on 2G and 3G in certain areas, while building up its own 3G and 4G/LTE sites. This roaming has been phased over a period of 18 months with completion on 27 December 2018.
Yes has a >85% 4G/LTE coverage in Peninsula Malaysia only, while Webe 4G/LTE in some cities only and Altel matches Celcom's coverage because of a roaming agreement.
In 2018, Maxis has the highest speeds in its 3G and 4G/LTE networks with speed of 4 and 24 Mbit/s respectively. The best 4G availability is Yes but is limited to the Peninsula Malaysia.
Frequencies
On the 4 national operators, 2G is on 900 and 1800 MHz (except on U Mobile which is 3G and 4G only) up to EDGE, 3G is on 900 and 2100 MHz up to HSPA+, and 4G/LTE on 1800 (B3) and 2600 MHz (B7) is now being rolled out nationwide. From 2017 900 MHz (B8) has been partly refarmed for LTE too and used by Digi. 800 MHz (B20) is going to be employed by all providers too. Yes operates TD-LTE on 2300 (B40) and 2600 MHz (B38) and Webe FD-LTE on 850 MHz (B5).
Regulations
Since 2006 all SIM cards must be registered. This is done at the point of purchase and the process is quick and straight forward. All networks allow tethering and VoIP calls.
In 2016, the national regulator (Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission, MCMC) conducted an audit on dealers and agents of communication companies offering mobile cellular services in all of the country to check on the accuracy and validity of the records of subscribers taken by dealers and agents at the point of registration.
Roaming options
There are good options especially if travelling in South East Asia countries.
More info
APN configurations of most Malaysian operators are now "dynamic". This means that the settings must not be left blank, but can be filled with any letter or number.
All top-ups have only very limited validity as usual in this region. A RM 30 reload normally buys you 30 days of validity with one of the major providers (a notable exception is XOX/OneXOX). This makes it quite hard to keep a SIM card alive while leaving the country for a while.
IDD prefixes
Like in Thailand the 4 major Malaysian network operators offer heavily discounted IDD calls. Many countries can be called even cheaper than through VoIP. Each operator has an own IDD prefix to be used. This is mentioned in the "more info" section. It needs to be entered like this: <IDD prefix> <00> <country code> <area code> <local number>.
DiGi
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DiGi can be considered as largest network by consumer base today, as it overtook Maxis in 2016. It's half owned by Norwegian Telenor group. 4G/LTE has started in Kuala Lumpur in 2013 and is on par with its two rivals: coverage map.
Availability
Starter packs can be bought at their outlets: store locator. Top-up vouchers ranging from RM 5 to 100 extend the SIM life for 5 to 120 days depending on amount. They are available at a lot of stores. SIM card comes in tri-size cut. These starter packs are available:
- DiGi Prepaid Live: RM 8 with RM 5 credit included, valid for 5 days and 300 MB for 7 days.
Check balance by *126#, and data usage in bundles by *200# and choose 1 (Check Quota).
Data feature packs
Default rate outside all packs is RM 0.05 per MB with a max of RM 3 per day, then cut off. So buy one of their internet plans:
- short-time passes called Cili Padi - activation by *116*3#:
- 1 GB for 1 hour: RM 1
- 10 GB for 6 night hours (1am-7am): RM 2
- 10 GB for 6 morning hours (7am-1pm): RM 2
- unlimited data for 24 hours: RM 8
- for users in AM hours Super Tererrrr packs - activation by *116*2#:
| Volume | Validity | Bonus | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.5 GB | 7 days | unlimited
12am-12pm |
RM 15 |
| 5 GB | 30 days | RM 38 | |
| 8 GB | 30 days | RM 58 |
Hotspot use and torrent use is prohibited in the bonus hours.
- for users in PM hours biGBonus packets - activation: *116*1#:
| Volume | Validity | Price | Bonus |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.5 GB | 7 days | RM 10 | 7 GB biGBonus |
| 5 GB | 30 days | RM 30 | 30 GB biGBonus |
| 8 GB | 30 days | RM 38 | 30 GB biGBonus |
| 10 GB | 30 days | RM 48 | 30 GB biGBonus |
| 15 GB | 30 days | RM 68 | 30 GB biGBonus |
| 20 GB | 30 days | RM 88 | 30 GB biGBonus |
Subscriptions will auto-renew if there is credit. To unsubscribe, type *116*6# and follow the steps before your next renewal. biGBonus is an ongoing promotion giving 1 GB extra every day to be used between 1pm-7pm.
- for social media users Khaki Social plans, activation *116*1#:
- 5 GB for 30 days: RM 30
- 10 GB for 30 days: RM 48
All consumption on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram are not taken from the general balance.
To add up more volume, dial *200# on your phone. 6% taxes apply.
Roaming offers
DiGi offers three kinds of roaming packages for prepaid:
- Roam5/Roam10: RM 5 or RM 10 depending on country for unlimited messaging app usage (on Twitter, Facebook, WhatsApp) and 50 MB other usage per 24 hours.
- Roam 1 day: RM 15 for 500 MB internet + 10 mins valid for 24 hours in 13 Asian countries
- Roam 3 days: RM 25 for 2 GB internet + 30 mins valid for 72 hours in 13 Asian countries
- RoamTelenor: RM 25 for 4 GB internet + 60 mins valid for 72 hours on any Telenor network in Bulgaria, Hungary, Montenegro, Serbia, Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Pakistan and Myanmar, as well as Grameenphone in Bangladesh and dtac in Thailand.
A list of participating countries for each pass is available here.
Always make sure to select the correct network; DiGi only has agreements with one operator in every country it offers a roaming pass for (and if Telenor operates there it will be Telenor), and if you don't select the correct operator, you will be charged much higher at standard roaming rates.
Tourist SIM
Finally DiGi has issued their own SIM for tourists called '4G Plus Internet Traveller SIM'. It's sold only in their stores at the airports of KLIA, KLIA2, Senai, Langkawi, Penang, Kuching and Kota Kinabalu to foreigners with passport. These two SIM cards are sold
- RM 20 (tax incl.): with 10 mins of local calls, 10 mins IDD calls, 2 GB internet and 1 GB per day for WhatsApp, Facebook & WeChat, all valid for 7 days.
- RM 40 (tax incl.): with 30 mins of local calls, 30 mins IDD calls, 10 GB internet and 1 GB per day for WhatsApp, Facebook & WeChat, all valid for 15 days.
These IDD calls are special prefix calls to 6 Asian countries only. To expand use you can add any regular prepaid package.
Broadband plans
DiGi has also released broadband plans intended for modems and tablets. They come in two varieties:
- Broadband Prepaid 30: starter pack is for RM 38 and contains 8 GB for 30 days. This plan can be reloaded for 30 RM with another 8 GB.
- Broadband Prepaid 60: starter pack is for RM 68 and contains 16 GB for 30 days. This plan can be reloaded for 60 RM with another 16 GB.
More info
- DiGi IDD discount prefix: 133
- APN: diginet
- DiGi gives the lowest IDD rates to most countries now like RM 0.08-0.16 per min to landlines in Australia and many European countries by using IDD 133: dial 133 00 <country code > <area code> <local number> and check rates here.
- Website: http://new.digi.com.my/cs/Satellite/Page/landing/default/home
Maxis (Hotlink)
Maxis markets all its prepaid and mobile data services under the brand of Hotlink. According to speed test it currently boasts the best speeds and coverage in the country for 3G and 4G: Coverage map
Availability
Standard prepaid SIMs in tri-size cut can be purchased at Maxis retailers nationwide (outlet listing) including airports, major shopping centres and convenience stores such as 7-Eleven. You can buy the new starter packs called Hotlink RED for RM 10 with RM 5 credit valid for 5 days and 300 MB data valid for 3 days.
The Hotlink RED App is available for both Android and iOS users, allowing to check and refill balance and to activate data packs. They give a bonus of 1 GB data, when you download their RED app.
Top-up credits preferably with top-up vouchers for more balance as well as extending their prepaid's validity. Top-ups can be done online using credit cards, at Maxis retailers, top-up kiosks, convenience stores, supermarkets, newsagents, and many other resellers.
Credit validity ranges from 5 days for a RM 5 top-up to 100 days for a RM 100 refill. You will have a 50 days grace period on the RED plan without balance before your number will be scrapped.
To check credit balance without app, type *122# or through *100#, and data balance by *100# -> 6 (Internet & Settings) -> 1 (Mobile Internet).
Data feature packs
On Hotlink RED 10 GB Facebook data per month are added for free. By their RED app you can also choose to activate either a Chat or Social pack with unlimited data through certain apps as long as you have activated a data pack before:
- Chat pack includes: WhatsApp, WeChat, Line, QQ, IMO
- Social pack includes: Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Pinterest, Snapchat
For data, you need to add packages. 6% taxes must be added for the final price.
| Time | Volume | Price | Auto-renew | Extras |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 24 hours | 2 GB | RM 3 | no | |
| 7 days | 1.5 GB | RM 10 | yes | |
| 30 days | 6 GB | RM 35 | yes | |
| 8 GB | RM 45 | yes | ||
| 8 GB | RM 60 | yes | unlimited domestic calls | |
| 10 GB | RM 70 | yes | unlimited domestic calls |
For activation type *100# and select 'Internet Passes' or do it through their app. Data is throttled when quota has been used up. A tax of 6% needs to be added.
For more data, these boosters are offered, valid for the running time of the base package, activated by app:
- 150 MB: RM 3
- 500 MB: RM 8
- 1 GB: RM 12
Alternatively, you can switch to a different plan when your quota has been exhausted.
Asia roaming offers
- daily pass: in 8 countries you can roam for RM 10 per day with 1 GB data, throttled beyond. This pass is valid in Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Myanmar, Laos, Philippines, Singapore and Thailand. No activation or opt-in necessary.
- monthly pass: in Singapore, Thailand and Indonesia 1 GB data for 30 days at RM 38. To activate from Malaysia type *100*7*?*3# where ? is 1 for Singapore, 2 for Thailand and 3 for Indonesia. This pass can be activated multiple times from abroad by *100*3#.
More info
- Hotlink IDD discount prefix: 132
- APN: unet Username: maxis Password: wap
- Website: http://www.hotlink.com.my
Celcom (XPAX)
Celcom is run by Axiata. Its coverage is more or less on par with the two rivals on 2G, 3G, but slightly lower on 4G/LTE: Coverage map.
Their major prepaid brand is called Xpax.
Availability
Celcom kiosks located in most major shopping centres and airports. Top-ups can be made almost everywhere: store locator. Mini SIMs are standard, micro and nano SIMs may be available on request or cut down.
XPAX
All local prepaid SIMs of Celcom are sold through their XPAX label. To check credit balance, type *124#. The XPAX Turbo starter pack costs RM 10 with RM 6 pre-loaded and 200 MB for 7 days, sold in their outlets (see above). It also comes with free 10 GB for Facebook and "basic internet" provided as long your line is active. 'Basic internet' stays throttled to 64 kbps and a max. of 10 GB per month.
Data feature packages
You can add one of these packages for high-speed data:
| Time | Volume | Price | Activation |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 day | 1 GB | RM 3 | *118*2*1# |
| 2 GB | RM 5 | *118*2*2# | |
| 7 days | 500 MB | RM 6 | *118*2*3# |
| 2 GB | RM 10 | *118*2*4# | |
| 5 GB | RM 19 | *118*2*5# | |
| 30 days | 5 GB | RM 30 | *118*2*6# |
| 10 GB | RM 50 | *118*2*7# | |
| 15 GB | RM 79 | *118*2*8# |
Check data balance by *118*1*1*2#. All packages, but the daily packs, auto-renew. To stop, dial *118*2*5*1# before expiry. If your pack renews (or you buy another daily pack), unused data rolls over to the new period. 10 GB free data are added for Facebook and Instagram to all packages.
These add-ons are sold for their packages:
- 100 MB: 3 RM - activation: *118*3*2*1#
- 500 MB: 10 RM - activation: *118*3*2*2#
- 1 GB: 15 RM - activation: *118*3*2*3#
- 5 GB: 50 RM - activation: *118*3*2*4#
Asia roaming option
- 1 day Internet Pass: in Nepal, Bangladesh, Cambodia, Indonesia, Sri Lanka and Singapore gives you 500 MB per day (until midnight Malaysian time) for RM 4.99. Activate by *118# and beyond the quota speed will be throttled.
More info
- Celcom IDD discount prefix: 15
- APN: celcom4g
- Celcom website: http://www.celcom.com.my/personal
- XPAX website: http://www.xpax.com.my/
- XPAX app: https://www.xpax.com.my/xpaxapp
U Mobile
U Mobile is the 4th and smallest network in Malaysia having only a 3G/4G platform. In 2014 they switched from Celcom to Maxis for free national roaming on 2G and later 3G too. In 2014 they started their own 4G/LTE in Kuala Lumpur which is available for prepaid. A domestic roaming agreement on Maxis' network was extended for 3G until the end of 2019, while U Mobile is building up its own coverage on 900 and 1800 MHz in 3G and 4G/LTE.
They give out data much cheaper than their 3 bigger rivals, but at a somewhat lower coverage: Coverage Map
Availability
Their new starter pack is called 'UNLIMITED Power Prepaid' and is available for RM 8.50 with RM 5 preloaded credit at their stores and in many 7-Eleven shops. Recharges can be found at 7-Eleven, Cosway and Giant supermarkets (store locator). The starter package includes 200 MB data for high-speed mobile internet access. The validity period of the starter pack is 10 days. Check balance by *118#, for data balance the same command, then choose 'U Broadband' and 'Check Usage'.
Data feature packs
For a one-time top up of at least RM 10, you get unlimited access to Facebook, Instagram and Twitter, and also 1 GB basic Internet (@ 64 kbps) . You can add these bundles for more data:
| Data | Validity | Price | Calls | Extras |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 100 MB | 1 day | RM 2 | ||
| 1.5 GB | RM 5 | free:
Music streaming, YouTube (2am-10am) | ||
| 1 GB | 7 days | RM 9 | ||
| 500 MB | 15 days | RM 15 | ||
| 1.5 GB | 30 days | RM 20 | 20 mins | free:
1-4 GB Video, Music, Waze, Social Media (FB, Instagram, Twitter), YouTube (2am-10am) |
| 2 GB | RM 25 | |||
| 7.5 GB | RM 30 | 30 mins | ||
| 2 GB | RM 38 | 150 mins | ||
| 12 GB | RM 50 | 50 mins |
To subscribe use their app or dial *118# and select package. All unused call minutes roll over to the next month, if you buy a new package. Some plans contain extras like music or video streaming, Waze and social media usage not debited from your allowance.
To add more data before the month is over, they sell boosters. For 10 RM you get 1 GB extra valid for 3 days. To add a booster text 'ON BOOST' to 28118 or type *118#.
Data-only SIM
Their data-only packages for tablets and modems are called Super Broadband Prepaid. They have these packages to add, now all on 4G/LTE too:
| Volume | Validity | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 100 MB | 1 day | RM 2 |
| 1.5 GB | 1 day | RM 5 |
| 1 GB | 7 days | RM 9 |
| 500 MB | 15 days | RM 15 |
| 2 GB + 1 GB night | 30 days | RM 40 |
| 5 GB + 3 GB night | 30 days | RM 68 |
To purchase a pack: dial *118# > select U Broadband > select Purchase U Broadband > select your Broadband Package. Night traffic is valid 2am-8am. Add 6% taxes. All YouTube and some music streams are zero-rated.
Data will be cut off, when used up, but you can buy a booster add-on of 1 GB valid for 3 days for RM 10. To purchase a booster: Dial *118# > select U Broadband > select Purchase Booster.
Check your data usage by sending DATA2 to 28118 via SMS.
Roaming offers
- in 12 countries you get "unlimited" data roaming for RM 10 per day based on Malaysian Time: Australia (Optus), Bangladesh (Banglalink), Cambodia (Cellcard), Hong Kong (HKT), India (Aircel and Reliance), Indonesia (Indosat Ooredoo), Laos (Beeline), Philippines (Smart), Singapore (Starhub in 4G), S. Korea (SK Telecom), Taiwan (Taiwan Mobile) and Thailand (TrueMove in 4G). You don't need to activate or log-in, just connect to their preferred roaming partners in each country and RM 10 will be debited.
- in more than 30 further countries, you can roam "unlimited" at RM 36 per day, see this list.
Note that "unlimited" implies a FUP of 500 MB per day in high speed, before speed will be throttled.
Tourist SIM
Only at KLIA2, the budget terminal of Kuala Lumpur airport, they sell their tourist SIM called 'Traveller SIM'. Their shop is located at Level 2 - 145 (location). This SIM is only given to foreign passengers with a passport, not to Malaysians. It's for free, but you need to top-up a minimum of RM 20 rightaway. These bundles are sold:
- RM 15: 500 MB for 15 days
- RM 30: 10 GB for 30 days and 30 mins to all domestic networks
- RM 50: 16 GB for 30 days and 50 mins to all domestic networks
Data outside bundles is charged at RM 0.20 per MB.
More info
- IDD discount prefix: 1310
- APN: my3g
- Website: http://www.u.com.my
Yes (4G/TD-LTE in West Malaysia only)
Yes by YTL Corporation started in 2010 and now covers more than 85% of population by 4G/LTE only on the West Malaysian Peninsula. It used to be a WiMAX operator for which you needed to buy own hardware to be activated on their network. That's why it hasn't been mentioned on this list before.
This changed in 2016 when Yes started to release regular 4G/LTE SIM cards for your own device to be used on their network. They claim to be the 'fastest and widest' network on the peninsula, even ahead of the three majors: coverage map. Typical data speeds of Yes are close to 40 Mbps.
As a drawback: Yes is still 4G-only with no roaming on other networks. This means that you have data-only, voice calls only over VoLTE on a few selected cell phones and no SMS service. Furthermore, their LTE is on rare TD-LTE 2300 and 2600 MHz (= bands 38 and 40) which are compatible only with some latest high-end smartphones. Recently FD-LTE on 800 MHz was added (band 20). So better check your device, if you intend to use it on Yes.
Availability
Their prepaid 4G/LTE SIM card is sold in all of their stores in West Malaysia (locator) for RM 10 (tax included). It comes with 500 MB of data valid for 7 days. You may need to activate your new SIM online.
For topping up you can go to one of their stores or retail partners, use your credit card online or use any e-pay kiosk at petrol stations and convenience stores nationwide.
Data feature packages
These bundles for 4G/LTE data are offered:
| Plan | Volume | Time | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Daily 5 | 1 GB | 1 day | RM 5 |
| Weekly 15 | 2 GB | 7 days | RM 10 |
| Monthly 25 | 8 GB | 30 days | RM 25 |
| Monthly 30 | 10 GB | 30 days | RM 30 |
| Monthly 88 | 14 GB | 30 days | RM 88 |
All packages must be booked through your online account. They'll auto-renew, if you have enough credit.
More info
- APN: yesnet
- Website in English: http://www.yes.my
UniFi mobile (previously called TMgo by Webe)
In 2014 Telekom Malaysia and P1 now called Webe officially launched their brand TMgo based on 4G/LTE-only running at 850 MHz (band 5) as well as TD-LTE bands 38 and 40 that are able to deliver download speeds up to 20 Mbps. This was closed later and relaunched as UniFi mobile with 3G roaming included.
Their own 4G is in a limited area only: Kedah, Kelantan, Melaka, Negeri Sembilan, Pahang, Perak, Sabah, Sarawak, Selangor: Before purchase check: coverage map. For 2G and 3G it uses free national roaming on Celcom network.
Availability
To get a SIM card you first need to download their "mobile@unifi" app in the Google Play or App Store and order a SIM card to a local TM Point. The SIM card is free in the promotion period until June 2018 (max. 3 SIM cards). Later RM 10 apply. It comes with 10 GB LTE data on UniFi's own network, 10 mins and 10 SMS to all domestic networks. When ordering, mind to select other purpose than travel, otherwise your card will be deactivated after 90 days.
You can reload your Unifi Mobile account in denominations of RM10, RM30, RM50 and RM100 via credit/debit card or online banking. All SIM management is done through their app.
Data feature packages
UniFi distinguishes unlimited packages on its own limited network and other packs with Celcom roaming:
- on own 4G/LTE network only:
- unlimited data for 3 hours: RM 3
- unlimited data for 24 hours: RM 5
- unlimited data for 7 days: RM 20
- on own and 2G/3G roaming network nationwide:
- 1 GB 2G/3G/4G networks: RM 13
- 1 GB 4G network + 1 GB 2G/3G roaming network: RM 15
- 2 GB 4G network + 2 GB 2G/3G roaming network: RM 30
- 4 GB 4G network + 4 GB 2G/3G roaming network: RM 50
Here is the novelty: There is no exipry of the data packages as long as the line is active. You can use all data until it's fully used up. You only need to make a debitable charge or reload within 90 days to keep it alive.
More info
- APN: unifi
- Website: https://unifi.com.my/mobile
Altel
Altel run by Altel Communications Sdn Bhd. has started to roll out own 4G/LTE broadband services in 2013. They've acquired LTE spectrum on 2600 MHz and have built so far 2100 base stations. Where it doesn't have own coverage, they rely on 2G, 3G and 4G/LTE roaming on Celcom where it's operating like a MVNO via their partnership with Celcom.
Availability
Their prepaid SIM cards are available in their stores (locator) for RM 7 (tax incl.) with RM 5 and 300 MB credit valid for 30 days. You can extend validity to one year for RM 28 by typing 'EXTEND' to 25835.
To top-up buy vouchers RM 5-50 at any Altel dealer, 7-Eleven stores, AEON Big, Giant, Tesco supermarkets or major petrol stations in the country. They give 5-90 days of validity. To reload enter *122*<voucher PIN>#.
If you reload a minimum of RM 30 within the first 5 days after activation, you’ll enjoy a 10% bonus credit with no expiry. You get a further 500 MB valid for 15 days for any top-ups of RM 50+. Check balance by *102#.
Data feature packages
These packages are offered (add 6% taxes) and include 4G/LTE:
| Validity | Volume | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 1 day | 500 MB | RM 2 |
| 1 GB | RM 3 | |
| 7 days | 1 GB | RM 5 |
| 2 GB | RM 10 | |
| 30 days | 5 GB | RM 30 |
| 10 GB | RM 50 | |
| 20 GB | RM 90 |
To activate type *102#, select Broadband and choose plan. To check balance text 'MB BAL' to 25836.
More info
- APN: altel
- Website: http://www.altel.my/
- Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/MYALTEL
Tune Talk
Tune Talk is one of the first MVNOs in Malaysia. It started in 2009 and operates on the network of Celcom in 2G, 3G and 4G/LTE. Coverage Map. It's connected to the budget airline AirAsia.
Availability
Their SIM is available at their outlets Dealer Location like in the low cost terminal at KLIA2 for RM 5 with RM 2 credit. For 4G/LTE ask for their special SIM card.
You can top up at many dealers and service stations shown here. You will receive 1 GB as bonus when you top-up RM 30 and 2 GB when top-up RM 50. Check balances by *134#.
Data feature packages
Default data is RM 0.05 per MB. These packages are sold:
| Volume | Validity | Price | Activation | Extras |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 300 MB | 1 day | RM 1 | 300M | |
| 2 GB | 1 week | RM 10 | 2GW | |
| 4 GB + 500 mins (on-net) | 1 month | RM 28 | 4G | + 4 GB for top-up RM 30+ |
| 8 GB + 1000 mins (on-net) | 1 month | RM 48 | 8G | + 8 GB for top-up RM 50+ |
| 120 GB (10GB/month) | 12 months | RM 200 | 120G | + 8 GB for top-up RM 100+ |
For subscription text code to 2222. Packages will auto-renew. To stop text activation code followed by 'STOP' to 2222. To check text code followed by 'STATUS' to 2222. All SMS to 2222 cost RM 0.10. For extra data you can add 2 GB for RM 15 by '2G ADD' to 2222.
+VIBE Online Plans
These new combo plans are offered too:
| Data | on-net mins | all-net mins | Validity | Activation | Price | Extras |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 GB | 30 mins | 30 mins | 30 days | DP15 | RM 15 | RM 5 credit |
| 12 GB | 40 mins | 40 mins | 30 days | DP30 | RM 30 | RM 5 credit |
| 20 GB | unlimited | 60 mins | 30 days | DP50 | RM 50 | RM 5 credit |
| 240 GB (as
20 GB/month) |
1 year | DP200 | RM 200 |
Purchase your plan online or by code. To check balance text code and STATUS, to renew ahead of time code and RENEW, to stop code and STOP.
AirAsia Traveller Plan
On all inbound flights of AirAsia to Malaysia their Traveller Plan SIM card is offered. Furthermore ordered online these SIM cards are shipped worldwide. They are only available to foreigners:
- Lite Plan: RM 22.50 with 5 GB and RM 5 airtime for 7 days
- Power Plan: RM 45 with 10 GB and RM 10 airtime for 14 days
To activate, type 'LITE' or 'POWER' to 2222. To top-up you can use the usual ways and regular packages for data. To check balance, text 'STATUS' to 2222.
Asian roaming
TuneTalk offers one of the cheapest roaming plans in SE Asia. You can get unlimited data roaming for 24 hours for RM 38 per day in Bangladesh (Robi), Cambodia (Hello), Hong Kong and Macau (SmarTone), Philippines (Smart), Indonesia (XL) , Singapore (M1), Sri Lanka (Dialog) and Taiwan (Chunghwa). To activate, enter *138# and choose plan for 1, 3 or 5 days.
More info
- APN: tunetalk
- Website: http://tunetalk.com/my/
XOX Mobile, ONEXOX
XOX Mobile and ONEXOX are two MVNOs using the network of Celcom in 2G, 3G and 4G/LTE (see above) with the same portfolio. It features unusual long validity rules, that can be appealing users that want to keep their SIM card alive.
Availability
Prepaid SIMs are available at their dealers: XOX dealers ONEXOX dealers for RM 10 with RM 5 credit.
Top-ups can be bought at many service stations and 7-Eleven. To check credit, type *132# or *150*1#.
Season Pass
This pass allows the subscriber to purchase mobile services with sharing of data, minutes and SMS to any other users of the same brand, which will not expire as long as the account is active. Every time a subscriber activates their monthly mobile internet, it will be directly deducted from their Season Pass available data instead of credit or airtime.
So for any pass you get an account validity of 28 months which is rather unusual in Malaysia as season pass validity follows the SIM card expiry date which is 28 months.
| Data | Calls | Price | Activation |
|---|---|---|---|
| 20 GB | RM 100 | SP D1 | |
| 30 GB | RM 150 | SP D2 | |
| 50 GB | RM 250 | SP D3 | |
| 10 GB | 333 mins | RM 80 | SP C1 |
| 20 GB | 333 mins | RM 130 | SP C2 |
Send code to 22111 for activation. To check data balance text 'BAL' to 23388. To transfer data to another number, text: <recipient number>D<GB volume>< PIN >and send to 23388. You can check balance or transfer data on type *150#.
Data feature packs
These further data packages called "Fat Data Plan" are available:
| Volume | Validity | Price | Activation |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 GB | 1 day | RM 3 | DATA FATD1 |
| 2 GB | 7 days | RM 10 | DATA FATW2 |
| 500 MB | 30 days | RM 12 | DATA FAT500 |
| 1 GB | RM 15 | DATA FAT1 | |
| 2 GB | RM 25 | DATA FAT2 | |
| 5 GB | RM 30 | DATA FAT5 | |
| 10 GB | RM 50 | DATA FAT10 |
For subscription text code to 23388. Daily and weekly packages don’t auto-renew, monthly do. The following add-ons for extra data are available:
- 100 MB, RM 5, activation: DATA ADD 100
- 200 MB, RM 10, activation: DATA ADD 200
- 300 MB, RM 15, activation: DATA ADD 300
- 1 GB, RM 35, activation: DATA ADD 1GB
Text activation code to 23388. Packages stay valid as long as the base pack.
You can activate data plan, type *150#
More info
- APN: XOX
- Website for XOX Mobile: www.xox.com.my
- Website in ONEXOX Mobile: www.onexox.my
SpeakOut
SpeakOut, owned by Pavo Communications Sdn Bhd, arrived as MVNO in Malaysia in 2011. It operates in 3G and on 4G/LTE on the network of Digi.
Availability
Starting packages are availabe in 7-Eleven stores in Malaysia as well as other outlets, where the SIM card will be registered before activation. There are four different starter packages to choose from and all have their own data feature packages to add on.
Any starter pack has a validity of 30 days upon activation and another 60 days for incoming calls before being suspended.
Reload vouchers come in dominations of RM 3, RM 10, RM 30, RM 50, RM 100, RM 150 and RM 180, where each RM adds another day of validity. Exception for this is when RM 180 is reloaded, adding 1 year validity. To top-up use option 2 in the menu of *129#. To check balance use option 1 in the menu. To receive the phone settings use *129*7*1#.
When no package is activated or not re-newed, the base default rate will be RM 0.10 per MB on all offers. Once all data allowance is in packages used, speed will be throttled to 64 kbps.
SpeakOut Prepaid
The SpeakOut Prepaid pack is available for RM 16 and includes RM 2 call credit and 500 MB of data at 4G speed for 30 days. There are following auto-renewing plans that can be activated:
| Plan Name | Volume | Validity | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| ValueSurf10 | 500 MB | 14 days | RM 10 |
| ValueSurf20 | 1 GB | 30 days | RM 20 |
| ValueSurf28 | 1.5 GB | 30 days | RM 28 |
| ValueSurf38 | 2.5 GB | 30 days | RM 38 |
| ValueSurf48 | 3.5 GB | 30 days | RM 48 |
MegaRia Prepaid
MegaRia Packages are available for RM 10 and the cheapest way to get started with SpeakOut. They are aimed to those who are not really heavy data users. The package does not include data, for that the following data packages can be activated via *128*4*1#.
| Plan Name | Volume | Validity | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| MegaRia10 | 500 MB | 14 days | RM 10 |
| MegaRia20 | 1 GB | 30 days | RM 20 |
| MegaRia28 | 1.5 GB | 30 days | RM 28 |
Once the data allowance is used, the speed will be throttled to 64 kbps. When not re-newed, the base rate will be RM 0.10 per MB.
Tourist Prepaid
Specific for tourists and only available to non-Malaysian passport holders is the tourist starter pack. This pack is available for RM 50 and includes 100 GB of high speed internet for 7 days, RM 5 of talktime and cheap IDD calls to 20 countries. To check your consumptions use *129*1*5#. Once the initial week is over or the 100 GB have been used, there are 2 data plans available via *129*4*1# both valid for 14 days:
- SuperSurf: 5 GB for RM 30
- UltraSurf: 10 GB for RM 50
Dare to Speak Prepaid
This prepaid package is available at limited number of outlets, but available to all. This starter pack will also set you back RM 50 and includes 100 GB of high speed internet for 7 days. Once the initial week is over or the 100 GB have been used there are 2 data plans available via *129*4*1# each with a 14 days and 30 days validity variant:
- SuperSurf: 5 GB for 14 days = RM 30
- SuperSurf Plus: 5 GB for 30 days = RM 40
- UltraSurf: 10 GB for 14 days = RM 50
- UltraSurf Plus: 10 GB for 30 days = RM 60
Data Boosters
When data quota has been reached in any plan the following boosters can be added having own validity or when the validity expires of the data plan, whichever that comes first. Use *129*4*3# to check the remaining data allowance:
| Booster | Volume | Validity | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mark1 | 200 MB | 3 days | RM 5 |
| Mark2 | 500 MB | 7 days | RM 10 |
| Mark3 | 1 GB | 15 days | RM 18 |
More info
- APN: not known, use *129*7*1# to retrieve
- Website: http://www.speakout.asia
- SpeakOut2Care App allows managing your plan for Android and iOS users
Friendi mobile
Friendi is another MVNO which is backed by the Virgin Group. It operates on U Mobile in 2G, 3G, and 4G/LTE which is a major drawback: check coverage
Availability
Their SIM card costs RM 5.30 (include GST) with RM 2 credit at their dealers: dealer-locator. Reload vouchers of RM 3 to 50 are found at many shops. For top-ups of RM 10 or more you get 10% bonus.
Data feature packs
Data rate outside of packages is RM 0.10 per MB. These packages are sold:
| Volume | Validity | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 100 MB | 1 day | RM 2 |
| 200 MB | RM 4 | |
| 1 GB | 7 days | RM 10 |
| 750 MB | 14 days | RM 18 |
| 2 GB | 30 days | RM 20 |
| 5 GB | RM 30 | |
| 10 GB* | RM 50* |
To activate dial *114# <call>. (*) = Data plan is offered as a limited time promotion and it is available until further notice.
More info
- APN: internet
- Website: http://www.friendimobile.my
Buzzme
Buzzme is the latest MVNO arrival in Malaysia. It operates in 2G/3G and new on 4G/LTE on the network of U Mobile with free roaming on Maxis (see above) which comes to an end in 2018.
Availability
Their SIM card is available for 10 RM with 8 RM or 30 RM with 30 RM credit valid for 30 days at their dealers: store-locator.
7-Eleven and lots of service stations sell reload vouchers of 5, 10, 30 RM or e-reloads of 5 to 500 RM valid for 5 days up to 2 years according to value or top-up online by PayPal. To top-up by voucher, type *123*<voucherPIN>#. Check balance by *126#.
Buzzme has the longest validity: you can keep your number and stay connected for 365 days at 38 RM what is called 'Smart Validity'. Subscribe by *122*6*1*8#
Data feature packs
Default rate outside pack is 0.05 RM per MB. These monthly packs called Smart Surf are sold:
| Volume | Price | Activation |
|---|---|---|
| 200 MB | 5 RM | *122*6*1*3# |
| 1 GB | 20 RM | *122*6*1*4# |
| 3 GB | 45 RM | *122*6*1*5# |
| 5 GB | 60 RM | *122*6*1*6# |
| 8 GB | 90 RM | *122*6*1*7# |
The validity of all the Smart Surf plans follows the validity of your main account. All remaining balance of the subscribed Smart Surf package will be carried forward to the next subscription.
More info
- APN: m8data
- Website: http://www.buzzme.com.my
redONE
redONE Network Sdn Bhd. was established in 2012 and is a MVNO on the Celcom network in 2G, 3G and 4G/LTE.
Availability
The prepaid starter pack is sold in many stores (store locator) for RM 10. It comes with a one time activation bonus of 500 MB high speed data and another 1 GB at low speeds (max. 64 kbps) valid for one month.
As a bonus you will receive 500 MB high speed and a further 1 GB at low speeds (max. 64 kbps) per month as long as you have activated another package.
Reloads are sold at Petron, Shell and Caltex filling stations, epay offices, mynews kiosks, Watsons drugstores, Happy Marts and many more places. To check credit dial *124#. For top-ups high bonuses are paid:
- for RM 10 top-up: 100 MB per day for 10 days
- for RM 20 top-up: 200 MB per day for 20 days
- for RM 30, 40, 50 top-up: 300 MB per day for 30 days
Note that loaded credit is only valid for 30 days. To check validity dial *124#.
Data feature packages
Default rate outside packages, add-ons and bonuses is RM 0.01 per 200 KB. These bundles can be added:
| Volume | Validity | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 1 GB | 1 day | RM 3 |
| 2 GB | 7 days | RM 10 |
| 5 GB | 30 days | RM 30 |
| 10 GB | RM 50 |
Data is up to 4G/LTE and will be throttled to 64 kbps when quota is reached. To activate dial *108# and select package. There is no auto-renewal and packages are not stackable. You can buy a new pack when the old has been fully utilised or has expired. A monthly max. of 10 GB in high speed internet is applied.
More info
- APN: redone
- Website: http://www.redone.com.my