Which Malaysia eSIM to get for tourists
There’s no doubt our neighbouring country Malaysia is a convenient holiday destination for Singaporeans. You’ve got cheap pampering, shopping, and yummy food right across the border, and we don’t blame you if you keep going back for more. That said, the first thing to do when travelling to Malaysia is to get a Malaysia eSIM or SIM card to stay connected throughout.
Table of Contents
- Which Malaysia eSIM to get for tourists
- All you need to know about eSIMS
- What’s the cost of Malaysia eSIM plans
- – Best Malaysia eSIMs for tourists –
- 1. Unifi
- 2. HotlinkÂ
- 3. U MobileÂ
- 4. CelcomDigi
- 5. Klook eSIM
- 6. Changi Recommends
- 7. Nomad
- 8. Gigago
- 9. ByteSimÂ
- 10. Wefly
- 11. FrewieÂ
- 12. International Card Center (ICC)
- 13. giga!
- 14. Singtel
- How much data do I actually need when overseas?
All you need to know about eSIMS
SIM cards have been around for as long as we can remember. Only problem is when overseas, you’d have to resort to pricey roaming plans or a Wi-Fi dongle to stay connected. Recently, you also have travel eSIMs, which are basically virtual SIM cards supported by newer smartphones. If your phone supports it, you can even use both your eSIM and SIM cards concurrently.
For instance, an iPhone can store up to 8 eSIMs and 1 physical SIM card, though you can only use 2 at the same time. As for Android, depending on the model, it can support up to 3 SIM cards and 5-7 eSIMs on average. So if you frequently travel to JB, you should consider getting an eSIM so you can conveniently switch between telcos in a jiffy.
Installing an eSIM is easy. Some apps give detailed instructions, whereas others just require you to whip out your phone and scan the QR code given by the telco.
Since eSims are relatively new, not all phones are eSIM compatible so be sure to check if yours supports it.
What’s the cost of Malaysia eSIM plans
Here’s a price breakdown of these Malaysia eSIM options for tourists.
| Brand | Prices | Coverage |
| Unifi | From RM10 (~S$3.20) | 10GB for 7 days |
| Hotlink | From RM25 (~S$7.90) | Unlimited data for 7 days |
| U Mobile | From RM15 (~S$4.70) | 100GB for 7 days + Grab Travel Pass (worth RM186) |
| CelcomDigi | From RM15 (~S$4.70) | Unlimited data for 3–30 days |
| Klook | From $2.39 | Unlimited data |
| Changi Recommends | From $0.10 | Unlimited data for 1 day |
| Nomad | From $6.39 | 1GB for 7 days |
| Gigago | From $1.90 | 500MB/day for 1 day |
| ByteSim | From $3.71 | 500MB/day for 1 day |
| Wefly | From $0.01 | Unlimited data for 1 day |
| Frewie | From $1.50 | 500MB/day for 3 days |
| International Card Center | From $0.99 | Unlimited data for 1 day |
| giga! | From $0.87 | 1GB for 5 days |
| Singtel | From $10 | 500GB over 7 days |
– Best Malaysia eSIMs for tourists –
Whether you’re travelling to Malaysia via air, land, or sea, you’ll notice that most points of entry will likely have a slew of telco operators offering travel eSIMs and Malaysia SIM card options for tourists. Here are the best to look out for:
1. Unifi
eSIMs from RM10 (~S$3.20) that get you discounts on streaming services like Disney+
Image credit: Unifi
Unifi’s prepaid plans don’t just offer your typical mobile add-ons like extra GB or minutes. Instead, they offer discounted monthly subscription fees for popular streaming apps including Disney+ and Viu. For instance, you’ll just have to pay RM16 (~S$5) for a 30-day subscription with Disney+ (U.P. RM24.90, ~S$7.80) – a steal if you think about Singapore’s $18.98/month subscription to the streaming service.
Their UNI5G WOW data passes start from RM10 (~S$3.20) and include 10GB, valid for 30 days with uncapped 5G speed. The best part is, Unifi allows you to roll over any unused data to the next month, so you’ll definitely be getting your money’s worth here. You can opt for either a physical SIM card or an eSIM when you place an order on their website.
Type: eSIM
Best for: Long or frequent trips to Malaysia.
How to purchase: Place an order on the Unifi website and download the Unifi UniVerse app (Google Play | App Store).
2. HotlinkÂ
Unlimited internet from RM25 (~S$7.90) for 1 week across 4 countries
Image credit: Behance
With its fiery red brand colours, Hotlink is a household name you’ll frequently see around Malaysia. To start with, travellers can purchase a basic Travel eSIM which costs RM25 (~S$7.90).
It includes unlimited internet at uncapped speeds and unlimited calls within Malaysia. You can also use this travel eSIM in Singapore, Thailand, and Indonesia, so you don’t have to buy multiple eSIMs if you’re hopping across Southeast Asia. Should you prefer a physical SIM card, that option is also available; just visit one of the select Maxis stores to get the SIM card.
Type: eSIM
Best for: Monthly JB weekend trips.
How to purchase: Download the Hotlink app (Google Play | App Store) for eSIMs, or head to a Maxis store to get a physical SIM card. Check out their plans on the Hotlink website.
3. U MobileÂ
7-day travel pass with 100GB of data & Grab vouchers for RM15 (~S$4.70)
Look out for bright orange store colours when in Malaysia.
Image credit: Ipoh Parade Mall
U Mobile has the affordable ULTRA5G Tourist SIM plan catered exclusively towards those visiting Malaysia. The plan has a 7-day validity period and includes 100GB of data, free hotspot capabilities to share the data with your fam, and the Grab Travel Pass (worth RM186, ~S$58.60) that includes vouchers for rides, GrabFood, and GrabMart orders.
Type: eSIM and SIM card
Best for: Longer duration vacations to Malaysia or the region.
How to purchase: Purchase it on the MyUMobile App (Google Play | App Store). You can also purchase a SIM card at any physical U Mobile store or authorised seller in Malaysia. Check out their plans on the U Mobile website.
4. CelcomDigi
Unlimited data & calls within Malaysia from RM15 (~S$4.70)
Use as much data as you want and need, with CelcomDigi’s Unlimited Tourist plan. It comes with unlimited data and voice calls within Malaysia for 3 to 30 days, depending on the plan you choose. The 7-, 14-, and 30-day plans also get unlimited hotspot to share data. All this from RM15 (~S$4.70), which is an absolute steal.
Type: SIM card
Best for: Long vacations in Malaysia or frequent visits there over a short period.
How to purchase: Walk in to any CelcomDigi Store or authorised dealer. Can also be purchased online at the CelcomDigi website.
5. Klook eSIM
Unlimited data plans from $2.39/day
Klook’s 5G eSIM for Malaysia lets you buy data for the exact length of your trip up to 30 days, so you don’t feel like you’re wasting money by having to buy a prepaid plan with a longer duration.
The plans start from $2.39/day for unlimited data, and it gets marginally cheaper if you have a longer plan; the 30-day eSIM plan costs $61.05, or around $2/day. You can also opt for 1GB and 3GB data plans if you aren’t a TikTok fiend; these more affordable plans start from $0.59/day for 1GB.
Type: eSIM
Best for: Tourists who want an eSIM plan that’s the exact length of their trip
How to purchase: Buy the plan on Klook’s website and activate the voucher within 180 days of purchase. Free cancellations are allowed as long as the voucher has not been redeemed.
6. Changi Recommends
Pick up your Malaysia SIM card at Changi Airport before your trip
Changi Recommends kiosk at Changi Airport.
Image credit: Singapore Changi Airport
Changi Recommends’ Malaysia SIM cards are a convenient option if you’re flying to Malaysia from Changi Airport. All you have to do is to order your SIM card online, then pick it up before your flight.
They have reasonably-priced Malaysia SIM card plans ranging from 1-30 days, with the cheapest option being S$0.10 for an eSIM with 1 day of unlimited data. In fact, most of their plans comprise unlimited data, so we reckon it’s pretty worth it. Another option for a short weekend getaway to the likes of Kuala Lumpur or Penang, is a 3-day unlimited high-speed data plan for S$2.63.
Type: eSIM and SIM card
Best for: Those travelling to Malaysia via Changi Airport
How to purchase: Order online via Changi Recommends, then pick your SIM card up at the airport prior to departure. If buying an eSIM, the QR code will arrive in your inbox in up to 30 minutes.
7. Nomad
Add-ons and plan extensions available
Image credit: eSIMDB
Nomad has the best eSIM options for those who frequent Malaysia and don’t want to have to purchase a new eSIM each time. Their data plans have options from 5 to 45 days and offer 1GB to unlimited data. The most affordable plan with them is 1GB/7 days for $6.39.
Installation is straightforward, too. You’ll receive a QR code upon purchase, and then you just follow the instructions from there. You can then activate your plan within 60 days of purchasing it, so go ahead and get your Nomad eSIM ahead of your trip.
Type:Â eSIM
Best for:Â Long or frequent trips to Malaysia.
How to purchase: Purchase your Nomad eSIM online.
8. Gigago
Single-use eSIMs with hotspot & tethering available
Trip prep is most often the most stressful part of travelling. Thankfully, it’ll be rather easy to sort out your Malaysia data plan before your trip, with the Malaysia eSIM by Gigago. This data-only eSIM is best for both a day trip to JB with the fam as mobile tethering and hotspot is included, so you can share your plan with others on the trip with you.
They have data plans ranging from 1-30 days, with the cheapest being the 500MB plan for USD1.50/day (~S$1.90). You’ll receive your eSIM in your email within 5 minutes of purchase, then you can follow the instructions to seamlessly install it. Do note that the plans do not include voice calls and SMS, and it runs on 3G and 4G networks.
Type: eSIM
Best for: A one-time multi-city trip.
How to purchase: You can purchase your Malaysia eSIM by Gigago online.
9. ByteSimÂ
Free switching between local operators for highest-speed data
Image credit: ByteSim
With data-only plans ranging from 1-30 days, ByteSim has an array of options you can tailor to your needs. For basic usage, cop a 500MB/day plan for $3.71, or get unlimited data from $8.82 for 3 days. Either way, you can be sure you’ll be connected to the fastest possible network, as ByteSim has partnered with major telco U Mobile.
In terms of cost, ByteSim’s Malaysia data plans are on the slightly higher side. However, you’ll get the convenience of immediate confirmation of your eSIM in your email. All you have to do then is to easily set it up via a QR code sent to you, and you’re good to go.
Type: eSIM
Best for: Convenient and fast eSIM delivery.
How to purchase: You can purchase your ByteSim online.
10. Wefly
Frequent flash deals on Shopee
We all know that the best thing about shopping on e-commerce platforms is the array of discounts after discounts, especially on double-digit days each month. It’s no different for Wefly’s eSIMs, which you can purchase on Shopee.
At the time of writing, you can get 1-day unlimited data packs from $0.01 (U.P. S$10.90), which is quite an insane deal. They also have plans that span up to 15 days for equally affordable prices. If what you purchased is not enough, you can even top up your data within 30 days to reuse your eSIM. Plus, it’s valid for one year after purchase, so go ahead and buy your Malaysia eSIM in advance.
Type: eSIM
Best for: Discounted prices and buying way ahead of your trip.
How to purchase: You can purchase your Wefly eSIM on Shopee.
11. FrewieÂ
Singapore-Malaysia-Thailand package available
Image credit: Traveloka
This Malaysia eSIM is best for those attempting the adventurous 1.5-day overland train from Singapore to Thailand – or if you just happen to be visiting both Malaysia and Thailand in one trip. Frewie has data-only packages that’ll keep you connected for basic use, from 500MB/day for 5 days (USD2.58, ~S$3.30).
If you’re just heading across the border, then you can check out their Malaysia-only eSIM from USD1.20 (~S$1.50). This will get you 0.5GB of data daily for 3 days.
Type: eSIM
Best for: Basic data usage in Malaysia and Thailand.
How to purchase: You can purchase your Frewie eSIM online. Choose between the Malaysia eSIM and the Singapore, Thailand and Malaysia eSIM.
12. International Card Center (ICC)
Physical Malaysia SIM card delivery in Singapore
While most data plans usually range from 1-30 days, few eSIM providers can beat the specific number of days available with ICC’s offerings. Travelling for 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or 7 days? They’ve got fairly priced packages for you. Going to Malaysia for 10, 12, 15, 20, or 30 days? No need to spend more than necessary on a data plan for your travels.
The best part is, all their packages comprise unlimited data, and start from 1-day options from $0.99 (U.P. $2.49).
Type: SIM card
Best for: Those who are looking for Malaysia SIM card delivery in Singapore prior to your trip.
How to purchase: You can purchase your ICC SIM card online. You can also purchase an ICC SIM card on Shopee; however, the price is slightly higher. ICC eSIMs are also available.
13. giga!
Choose from a 5- or 30-day Malaysia eSIM data plan from $0.87
giga! even has plans with up to 1TB of data and 6GB of roaming.
If you rather stick with the Singapore telco you’re familiar with, giga!’s Malaysia travel eSIM is a godsend. From $0.87 for 1GB of data over 5 days, their eSIM plans are very affordable. You can also top up to get unlimited data over 5 days for $12.50.
One downside to giga!’s travel eSIMs is that they have only 2 validity periods: 5 and 30 days, nothing in between.
Read more about giga!’s 5G eSIM plans.
Type: eSIM
Best for: Those who frequently travel to Malaysia.
How to purchase: Purchase your giga! Travel eSIM on Shopee. You’ll get an email with the eSIM QR Code delivered to your inbox within minutes of your purchase.
14. Singtel
Tourist eSIM plan that includes roaming in 5 countries
For those embarking on an APAC tour of Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, Hong Kong, and Thailand, Singtel’s hi! Tourist 7-day eSIM plan will be the best pick. For just $10, you get 500GB of data, unlimited local calls, and unlimited local SMS. You can also pick your phone number.
One thing to note is that the calls and SMS addons have to be enabled at any Singtel hi! Retailer, and your passport is required to activate them. When purchasing the plan, you’ll need to verify your identity with your passport.
Type: Roaming plan (Singtel) & SIM card and eSIM (GOMO)
Best for: Basic usage and frequent travellers.
How to purchase: Singtel users can purchase roaming plans on the My Singtel app, while new GOMO users can sign up on the GOMO website.
How much data do I actually need when overseas?
Knowing how much data you need will help you find which roaming plan is most suitable for you. Use this table as a rough reference.
| Trip Duration | Usage Type | Data Usage | Call Time (Minutes) | SMS Messages | Video Streaming (Minutes) |
| 3-5 days | Light | 240 MB – 1.25 GB | 30 – 60 | 20 – 50 | 20 – 60 |
| Moderate | 750 MB – 3 GB | 60 – 120 | 50 – 100 | 60 – 120 | |
| Heavy | 2.7 GB – 8 GB | 120 – 180 | 100 – 200 | 120 – 240 | |
| 1 week | Light | 560 MB – 1.75 GB | 60 – 120 | 50 – 100 | 40 – 120 |
| Moderate | 1.75 GB – 4.2 GB | 120 – 240 | 100 – 200 | 120 – 240 | |
| Heavy | 6.3 GB – 11.2 GB | 240 – 360 | 200 – 400 | 240 – 480 | |
| 2 weeks | Light | 1.12 GB – 3.5 GB | 120 – 240 | 100 – 200 | 80 – 240 |
| Moderate | 3.5 GB – 8.4 GB | 240 – 480 | 200 – 400 | 240 – 480 | |
| Heavy | 12.6 GB – 22.4 GB | 480 – 720 | 400 – 800 | 480 – 960 |
P.S: This is just a rough estimation and does not 100% accurately reflect everybody’s experience.
Light usage: Basic stuff like checking emails, quick browsing, and checking social media sometimes. Limited call time and video usage.
Moderate usage: Regular use of social media, listening to music, video calls, and moderate video streaming on. 1GB of data can support watching Netflix for 1 hour in standard definition resolution, which is below HD.
Heavy usage: Frequent video streaming, video calls, large file downloads/uploads, extensive use of calls, messages and GPS apps like Google Maps.
Use a Malaysia eSIM or SIM card for the next time you visit JB
Whether you prefer SIM cards or eSIMs, you now know what brands to look out for during your next getaway across the causeway. Most of these are pretty easy to purchase, with online options at the tip of your fingers and instant confirmation, so let this be the least of your worries when planning for your next trip to Malaysia.
If you aren’t sure where to stay, check out these affordable luxury hotels in JB and these relaxing resorts in Johor. You can also relieve stress at these adventure and theme parks in JB or simply stock up on groceries at these JB supermarkets.
Cover image adapted from: Ipoh Parade Mall, Shop Malaysia Airports via Facebook, Johor Bahru City Square Plaza Metro Kajang
A portion of this content may contain referral links to products. However, all opinions are ours.
Originally published on 27th May 2024. Last updated by Josiah Neo on 19th August 2026.