Keeping in Touch in Malaysia

The Malaysian government is actively trying to increase the number of internet users in the country. As such, there have been large investments in fibre optic connectivity and wireless zones.

With a number of local service providers offering competitive rates, it’s easy to stay connected with your friends and family across the globe.

Text messages and phone calls within Malaysia are reasonably priced, and it’s relatively simple to set up a mobile phone or internet connection as an expat. You will also find plenty of WiFi hotspots across big cities such as Kuala Lumpur, making it convenient to stay online.

Internet in Malaysia

The internet in Malaysia has significantly improved over the past few years. While it may still be slower than you are used to in your home country, it has made great strides, especially in urban areas like Kuala Lumpur. 

The average download speed for fixed broadband is higher than 100 Mbps, which is a considerable improvement from previous years. However, outside of major cities, the infrastructure still lags behind.

Efforts are being made to enhance internet infrastructure in rural areas, with the Malaysian government aiming to provide 5G coverage to 85 percent of its rural areas by the end of 2024. Internet cafés, restaurants, and coffee shops in larger cities offer wireless internet access, making it simple to use the internet while on the move.

Popular internet service providers include TIME, Maxis, and TM Unifi, all of which offer a range of competitive plans depending on your needs. TIME is particularly known for its high-speed fibre internet options.

Read more: Renting Accommodation and Setting Up Utilities in Malaysia

Useful links

• Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC)
• TIME Internet Malaysia
• TM Unifi
• Maxis Broadband

Mobile phones in Malaysia

Mobile phones, or ‘handphones’ as they are commonly called in Malaysia, are available from a wide range of providers. You can easily use your cellphone from your home country by signing up for a local SIM card. Pre-paid and post-paid options are widely available, allowing you to choose whichever suits your needs best. Pre-paid plans offer the flexibility to top up when needed, whereas post-paid plans come with the convenience of predictable monthly bills and better deals on devices.

Mobile service providers offer competitive rates thanks to the healthy rivalry in the Malaysian market. The most prominent mobile providers include Maxis, Celcom, and DiGi. Each provider has strengths depending on where you are in Malaysia. For instance, Celcom is often noted for its reliability in remote locations, while Maxis provides excellent urban coverage.

Useful links

• Maxis Mobile Plans
• Celcom Mobile Malaysia
• Digi Telecommunications
• U Mobile

English-language media in Malaysia

English media is widely available in Malaysia. Local English-language newspapers include The Edge, Malay Mail, and New Straits Times. There are several other English newspapers and magazines available, and you can also find imported publications without much difficulty. Digital versions of these newspapers are increasingly popular, allowing you to keep up with the news wherever you are.

For up-to-date news, online platforms like Malaysiakini, The Malaysian Insight, and Free Malaysia Today offer coverage of local events, politics, and social issues in English.

Useful links

• The Edge Markets
• Malay Mail
• New Straits Times
• Malaysiakini
• Free Malaysia Today