Complete Guide for Travelers 路 Updated 2026
Everything you need to know about buying a local SIM card in Malaysia. Compare 3 providers, find prepaid plans starting from $3 USD, and learn exactly where to buy and what documents you need.
Cheapest Plan
$3
Providers
3
Network
Currency
MYR
KLIA or KLIA2 airport arrivals, or any Petronas station convenience store
Compare all 3 carriers offering prepaid SIM cards to tourists in Malaysia. Side-by-side comparison of coverage, speed, and pricing.
| Carrier | Type | Coverage | Speed | Cheapest Plan | Plans | Buy At |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Hotlink (Maxis) Best Coverage | Major | Excellent | Excellent | $3USD 5 GB / 7 days | 2plans | AirportConvenience StoreCarrier Store |
Digi | Major | Good | Good | $4USD 7 GB / 7 days | 2plans | AirportConvenience StoreCarrier Store |
Celcom | Major | Excellent | Good | $6USD 10 GB / 14 days | 1plan | AirportCarrier Store |
Coverage and speed ratings per carrier
From
$3
5 GB / 7 days
| Plan | Data | Price | USD | Validity | Calls |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tourist Plan 5GB | 5 GB | 15 MYR | $3 | 7 days | 30 min local |
| Tourist Plan 20GB | 20 GB | 35 MYR | $8 | 15 days | 60 min local |
From
$4
7 GB / 7 days
| Plan | Data | Price | USD | Validity | Calls |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tourist SIM 7GB | 7 GB | 20 MYR | $4 | 7 days | 20 min local |
| Tourist SIM 15GB | 15 GB | 30 MYR | $7 | 15 days | 50 min local |
From
$6
10 GB / 14 days
| Plan | Data | Price | USD | Validity | Calls |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tourist 10GB | 10 GB | 25 MYR | $6 | 14 days | 30 min local |
Select providers to compare their plans directly
Select up to 3 providers to compare. 3/3 selected.
Hotlink (Maxis)
Tourist Plan 5GB
15 MYR MYR
Digi
Tourist SIM 7GB
20 MYR MYR
Celcom
Tourist 10GB
25 MYR MYR
Digi
Tourist SIM 15GB
30 MYR MYR
Hotlink (Maxis)
Tourist Plan 20GB
35 MYR MYR
Visual comparison of carrier pricing in Malaysia
Cheapest to most expensive plan (USD)
Cheapest available
$3
Find the best place to buy a prepaid SIM card in Malaysia, with details on hours, ease of purchase, and what to expect at each location type.
This is the easiest option for tourists arriving in Malaysia.
Carrier counters and kiosks in the arrivals hall. Staff speak English and handle registration on the spot.
Available at 7-Eleven, FamilyMart, Lawson, and similar stores. Look near the checkout counter.
Official brand stores with the widest plan selection. Staff can help with activation and troubleshooting.
Order online before your trip and pick up at the airport, or have it delivered to your hotel.
Bring your passport when buying a SIM card in Malaysia. It is required for registration at all official points of sale. Airport counters handle the process quickly.
Malaysia uses 4G LTE / 5G networks. Here is how each provider compares for coverage and speed across the country.
Coverage Map for Malaysia
Visit each carrier's website for their interactive coverage map
major carrier
Urban
Strong
Rural
Strong
major carrier
Urban
Strong
Rural
Moderate
major carrier
Urban
Strong
Rural
Strong
Malaysia requires SIM card registration. Here is exactly what you need and step-by-step instructions for each provider.
Prepare these before buying a SIM in Malaysia
Unlocked phoneRequired
Your phone must be SIM-unlocked to use a local SIM card
PassportRequired
Valid passport for SIM registration
SIM ejector toolRequired
Or use a paperclip to open the SIM tray
Cash in local currencyRequired
Some vendors do not accept credit cards
Photo ID (backup)Optional
A second form of ID in case your passport is needed elsewhere
Local addressRequired
Hotel address for SIM registration form
major carrier
Step 1
Passport
major carrier
Step 1
Passport
major carrier
Step 1
Passport
Get a printable PDF with provider comparisons, activation steps, and APN settings for Malaysia.