Heading to Malaysia for business or pleasure? Let's talk about something that might not be at the top of your packing list but is crucial for staying connected: roaming charges. Understanding these fees can save you from a nasty surprise when your phone bill arrives. So, let's dive in and explore the world of roaming charges in Malaysia.

Are There Roaming Charges in Malaysia?

Yes, there are roaming charges in Malaysia for international visitors using their home network. When you use your regular SIM card from your home country in Malaysia, you're essentially borrowing the infrastructure of local Malaysian networks. This convenience comes at a cost, which is where roaming charges come into play. These fees can vary significantly depending on your home network provider and the agreements they have with Malaysian operators.

When Do Roaming Charges Apply in Malaysia?

Roaming charges kick in as soon as your phone connects to a Malaysian network. This happens automatically when you arrive in the country and your phone searches for a local signal. These charges apply to all your mobile activities - calls, texts, and data usage. Even if you're not actively using your phone, some apps running in the background might consume data, potentially leading to unexpected charges. It's important to note that roaming fees can apply even if you're just receiving calls or texts, not just when you're making them.

Roaming Fees and Charges in Malaysia

Disclaimer: Prices and plans are subject to change. Always check with your provider for the most up-to-date information.

Here's a breakdown of roaming charges and plans for some major international carriers when used in the Malaysia:

EE (UK): [1]

• Making a call: £1.80 per minute

• Receiving a call: £1.80 per minute

• Sending a text: 60p per text

• You'll need to purchase a data add-on upon arrival

Vodafone (UK): [2]

• Making a call: 60p per minute

• Receiving a call: 36p per minute

• Sending a text: 8p per text

• Internet: 12p per MB

O2 (UK): [3]

• Making a call: £2 per minute

• Receiving a call: £2 per minute

• Sending a text: 50p per text

• Internet: £7.20 per MB

Orange: [4]

Orange Holiday Malaysia package limited to 14 days for €24.99:

• 10 GB in 4G/LTE

• Calls NOT included

• Messages NOT included

Movistar (Spain): [5]

• Internet: €12.10 per MB

• To Spain or local numbers: €3.03 per minute + €1.94 connection fee

• To other destinations: €4.83 per minute + €1.94 connection fee

• Receiving calls: €3.03 per minute + €1.94 connection fee

• Sending SMS to any destination: €1.21 per SMS

• Sending MMS to any destination: €4.84 per MMS

KPN (Netherlands): [6]

• Internet: €2.50 per MB

• Making a call: €1 per minute

• Receiving a call: €0.50 per minute

• Sending a text: €0.30 per text

Rogers (Canada): [7]

• $15.00 per 10 MB

• $0.75 per text

• $3.00 per min

• or $15.00 per day - Pay the daily fee and use your own plan (Maximum 20 days per billing cycle)

Telstra (Australia): [8]

$10 AUD per day for "International Day Pass"

• 2 GB data

• Unlimited calls/SMS

Verizon (USA): [9]

• $2.05 per MB

• $1.79 per min

• Travel Pass: $10 per day to use your own plan

T-Mobile (USA): [10]

• $5 per day: 512MB data, unlimited calling

• $35 for 10 days: 5GB data, unlimited calling

• $50 for 30 days: 15GB data, unlimited calling

Keep in mind that these charges can add up quickly, especially for longer stays, making alternatives like Roamless eSIM an attractive option for many travelers.

How to Avoid Roaming Charges in Malaysia

You can read our guide on how to avoid roaming charges for more details. Here's a simple guide to help you stay connected:

• Turn off data roaming in your phone settings before you land in Malaysia.

• Connect to Wi-Fi whenever possible for internet access.

• Use messaging apps like WhatsApp or Skype for calls and texts over Wi-Fi.

• If you must use cellular data, set usage limits in your phone settings.

• Consider using a Global eSIM solution like Roamless for more flexible and potentially cost-effective connectivity.

Roamless eSIM: Your Flexible Connectivity Solution for Malaysia

Speaking of eSIM solutions, let's talk about how Roamless eSIM can enhance your Malaysian adventure:

• No Speed Throttling: Enjoy full-speed data without artificial slow-downs.

• Pay-as-You-Go Flexibility: Only pay for the data you actually use.

• Funds Never Expire: Your balance stays valid for future trips.

• Multi-Country Friendly: No need for country-specific plans if you're exploring beyond Malaysia.

• Local Network Speeds: Connect at the same speeds as local users.

• Easy Activation: Get set up quickly without the need to swap physical SIM cards.

  
  

With Roamless eSIM, you can stay connected in Malaysia without the worry of excessive roaming fees or the hassle of hunting down a local SIM card. It's a modern solution for the modern traveler, giving you the freedom to explore and stay connected on your own terms.

You can visit our eSIM Malaysia page or read our guide on the best eSIM for Malaysia before planning your travel. Remember, staying connected while traveling doesn't have to be complicated or expensive. With a little preparation and the right tools, you can enjoy your Malaysian journey to the fullest, sharing your experiences in real-time without dreading your next phone bill.

Sources:

[1] https://ee.co.uk/help/mobile/roaming/roaming-costs/countries/malaysia

[2] https://www.vodafone.co.uk/help-and-information/costs-and-charges/travelling-abroad

[3] https://www.o2.co.uk/international/using-your-phone-abroad

[4] https://travel.orange.com/en/buy-a-sim/offers/malaysia

[5] https://www.movistar.es/tarifas-moviles/roaming/#Malasia

[6] https://www.kpn.com/mobiel-abonnement/bundels/buitenland.htm#bundels_tarieven

[7] https://www.rogers.com/mobility/roaming#searchbar

[8] https://www.telstra.com.au/international-roaming#eligible-destinations

[9] https://www.verizon.com/support/international-services-pricing/

[10] https://www.t-mobile.com/cell-phone-plans/international-roaming-plans/unlimited-calling-data-pass