Best ESIM For Malaysia [2025 GUIDE]

Planning a trip to Malaysia and wondering how to stay connected without the drama of physical SIM cards? Been there, done that.

As someone who works and travels full-time, staying online is non-negotiable – and Malaysia has honestly become one of my favourite places to do just that. It's not just the food or the affordable lifestyle (though the nasi lemak cravings are real) — it's also one of the best countries for digital nomads, with solid infrastructure and reliable internet, especially in cities like Kuala Lumpur and Johor Bahru. 

I've travelled through Malaysia a few times – whether it was getting lost in the streets of George Town in Penang, hiking through the Cameron Highlands, island hopping around Langkawi, or cafe-hopping in Kuala Lumpur – and staying connected has always been a top priority.

While Malaysia is well-connected in cities like KL and Johor Bahru, it can get a little tricky in more remote areas, like the Perhentian Islands or deep within Borneo's rainforests. That's where having the right eSIM makes all the difference.

I usually go for unlimited data eSIMs – it's just less stressful. No need to check how much data I have left every day. But here's a tip I learned the hard way: not all eSIMs support hotspot sharing.

After a few trial-and-error moments, I've figured out what really matters when picking an eSIM in Malaysia: strong coverage (even in nature-heavy spots), decent speeds, fair pricing, and hotspot support.

In this guide, I'll break down the best eSIMs for Malaysia in 2025 – whether you're exploring the city, chilling at the beach, or going off-grid in the jungle to explore monkeys.

P.S. Keep reading to snag some sweet exclusive discount codes for BATW readers!

TLDR; My Malaysia eSIM Recommendation

I've had my fair share of data fails while travelling – like trying to look up directions to a café in George Town and having my signal drop just as I needed it, or getting cut off in the middle of booking a Grab ride in Kuala Lumpur. Honestly, it gets frustrating fast, especially when you're relying on your phone for pretty much everything.

That's why I ended up sticking with Eskimo.

It wasn't just that it worked—it was how seamlessly it worked. Whether I was wandering around Penang's street art alleys, catching a ferry to the Perhentian Islands, or navigating KL's MRT system, I didn't have to stress about my connection dropping.

I've tested quite a few eSIMs – Jetpac, Roamless, Airalo – but Eskimo stood out for one big reason: reliability, especially in those unpredictable in-between moments where signal tends to dip.

Plus, Eskimo has a few features that genuinely made a difference. You can top up any amount (not just pre-set data bundles), which makes it super budget-friendly if you're a light user or just need a few extra GBs before flying out. You can even transfer data to a friend, which saved me once when my travel buddy's connection cut out and we had to reroute to a new hotel. And if you don't want to worry about limits, they also offer unlimited data plans that still hold up in performance.

What surprised me most? It handled hotspot tethering really well. I worked from a beach café in Langkawi and a tiny homestay in the Cameron Highlands, and both times I was able to connect my laptop with no issues. I even managed a video call from the middle of a jungle road trip—something I definitely didn't expect.

Compared to Roamless (which runs on a similar prepaid credit balance system), Eskimo just felt more flexible. No rigid plans, no wasted data, and no random app errors when I needed to top up on the go. I could just use what I needed, when I needed, and move on.

And speaking of the app – super simple. No weird QR codes, no confusing setup, and no hidden fees. Just choose a country, load credit, and go. Honestly, that's what sold me. I don't want to fiddle with tech when I land—I want to open my phone and be ready.

That said, every eSIM has its own strengths. Some are better for budget travellers, others are more flexible with data plans or work better in certain regions. I'll break down what I found from using Jetpac, Roamless, Airalo, and Eskimo across different parts of Malaysia, so you can figure out which one works best for your kind of trip.

Because let's be honest – a smooth, connected trip just hits different.

Summary Of The Best eSIMs In Malaysia

eSIM	Data Coverage	Coverage Duration	Price Range
Eskimo	Unlimited	1 day, 2 days, 3 days, 5 days, 7 days, 10 days, 15 days, 20 days, 25 days, 30 days	USD 4 – USD 42
Holafly	Unlimited	Customisable	Starting from USD 6.90
Roamless	1 GB, 2 GB, 3 GB, 5 GB, 10 GB, 20 GB	Customisable	Pay-as-you-go
Airalo	1 GB, 2 GB, 3 GB, 5 GB, 10 GB, 20 GB	7 days, 15 days, 30 days	USD 4.50 – USD 32
Jetpac	1GB, 3GB, 5GB, 10GB, 15GB, 20GB, 30GB, 40GB, Unlimited	4 days, 7 days, 30 days	USD 1 – USD 21.99

7-Day eSIM Comparison In Malaysia

Let's say you're heading on a one-week trip to Malaysia. Here's what the main eSIM provider options look like:

eSIM	Plan	Price	Data	Price per GB
Eskimo	7 days	USD 13	Unlimited	USD 1.86/ day
Holafly	7 days	USD 29.90	Unlimited	USD 4.20/ day
Roamless	7 days	USD 21.95	10 GB	USD 2.20/ GB
Airalo	7 days	USD 25	10 GB	USD 2.50/ GB
Jetpac	7 days	USD 13.5	10 GB	USD 1.3/ GB

Eskimo – For a one-week trip across Malaysia, Eskimo proved to be one of the most convenient and reliable eSIMs I've used. I was able to top up exactly what I needed – no rigid 1GB or 5GB bundles – and started using data instantly after landing in Kuala Lumpur.

Over 7 days, I explored George Town, Langkawi, and the Perhentian Islands, and Eskimo held up with stable 4G in all three. I even hotspotted my laptop to catch up on work from a beach café – no throttling, no surprise restrictions.

What really stood out was the data sharing option. A friend ran low mid-trip, and I was able to send him a few GBs in seconds – no app drama. For short trips, this kind of flexibility makes all the difference.

Holafly – If you're planning to stream videos, upload photos in real time, or stay on long video calls, Holafly's unlimited data option (USD 29.90 for 7 days) is hard to beat. I've used it while constantly uploading content and never ran into throttling.

But here's the fine print: hotspotting isn't allowed. That means you won't be able to tether your connection to your laptop — which can be a major limitation if you're working remotely. So while Holafly is great for social media, messaging, and general browsing on your phone, it's not ideal for digital nomads or people who rely on a hotspot to get work done.

Jetpac gives you 10 GB for just USD 13.50 over 7 days, making it the most budget-friendly option per GB. I used it on a busy trip and found it handled everyday browsing, GPS, and emails with no problems. It's great if you want decent data without spending too much. Just keep in mind it's not unlimited, so heavy streamers or remote workers might find it a bit limiting.

In my experience, Roamless was especially useful when switching between destinations without needing to buy a whole new plan. Speeds were fast enough for streaming and video calls, and I had zero connectivity issues while exploring rural areas like the Cameron Highlands.

30-Day eSIM Comparison in Malaysia

If you're spending 30 days exploring Malaysia, whether you're working from a cosy café in Kuala Lumpur or savouring fresh seafood by the beaches of Penang, you'll want an eSIM plan that keeps you connected without worrying about running out of data.

Here's the breakdown:

eSIM	Plan	Price	Data	Price per GB
Eskimo	30 days	USD 42	Unlimited	USD 1.40/ day
Holafly	30 days	USD 74.90	Unlimited	USD 2.50/ day
Roamless	30 days	USD 35.95	20 GB	USD 2/ GB
Airalo	30 days	USD 21	10 GB	USD 2.10/ GB
Jetpac	30 days	USD 32	20 GB	USD 1.60/ GB

Eskimo – Eskimo offers an excellent Unlimited plan for USD 42, working out to less than USD 1.40 per day – one of the best deals if you're staying in Malaysia for a month. Instead of locking you into pre-set packages, you can add exactly how much credit you need, anytime.

Plus, Eskimo lets you hotspot freely, which is ideal if you're working remotely or sharing your connection with a friend. You can even transfer GB to another Eskimo user, which came in handy when I was travelling with a friend who ran out of data.

eSIM I Recommend For Malaysia

After testing multiple eSIMs during my travels across Malaysia, Eskimo has quietly become one of my top picks – not because it shouts the loudest, but because it consistently does the small things right.

What makes Eskimo different is its flexible pricing model. Instead of forcing you into fixed GB packages, Eskimo lets you top up any amount you want – even just a few dollars' worth. That freedom means you only pay for what you actually use, which was perfect when I had uneven data needs while jumping between cities, rainforests, and ferry terminals.

Another thing I found surprisingly helpful? Data sharing. Eskimo lets you transfer your remaining GBs to a friend — no strings attached. When I was admiring the wall murals in George Town and a fellow traveller ran out of data, I could instantly send them a few gigs through the app. No juggling extra QR codes, no awkward customer support chats.

Connectivity-wise, Eskimo taps into Malaysia's major networks, offering consistent 4G across urban centres like Kuala Lumpur and Penang, as well as remote areas like the Cameron Highlands and Perhentian Islands — without me needing to switch SIM profiles or restart my phone when coverage shifted.

One underrated feature I appreciated as a digital nomad: hotspotting works smoothly, even on smaller plans. I used it to tether my laptop on a road trip through Ipoh and didn't face throttling or blocked access, which happens more often than you'd think with other eSIMs claiming unlimited use.

The Eskimo app itself is minimal, fast, and transparent. It doesn't just show how much data you've used – it breaks down your usage clearly and lets you top up or transfer GBs in a few taps.

If you're planning to move around Malaysia – from the jungle to the city – Eskimo makes it easy to stay connected, share your data, and only pay for what you need. That kind of flexibility isn't common in the eSIM space, and for travellers like me, it's a total game-changer.

Order an Eskimo eSIM for Malaysia here!

eSIM I Don't Recommend For Malaysia

Jetpac is definitely a solid player in the eSIM space, offering some attractive data plans – like 20 GB for around USD 32 over 30 days – which makes it quite competitive in terms of price per gigabyte. It's a reliable choice for travellers who want a straightforward plan without too many bells and whistles.

That said, from my experience in Malaysia, I didn't reach for Jetpac as often as some other providers. One reason is that while the data allowance is generous, I found that the network speeds could be a bit patchy in certain places.

For example, when navigating Kuala Lumpur during rush hour or streaming videos in Penang, I noticed the connection sometimes dropped to slower 3G speeds or took longer to load compared to providers like Eskimo or Roamless, which consistently gave me stronger 4G LTE connections.

Another thing I noticed was the app experience. Jetpac's interface is clean but somewhat basic, which means it lacks some of the handy features I've come to appreciate elsewhere – like real-time data usage tracking or quick top-up options without having to go through several steps. For someone who's juggling work calls, maps, and social media on the go, that ease of management makes a difference.

Also, Jetpac sometimes still has issues with its 5G coverage in Malaysia, which might not matter much if you're sticking to casual browsing or emails, but for anyone who wants the fastest speeds possible, it's something to keep in mind.

Now, none of this means Jetpac isn't a good option—it absolutely is. It's just that for my travel style and data needs, especially when I want to stream or tether my laptop, I preferred providers that offered a bit more consistent speed and easier management.

If you're budget-conscious and your usage is more moderate, Jetpac can definitely serve you well. But if you're someone who relies heavily on fast and stable connections or wants a bit more flexibility with managing your data, there might be better fits out there.

Detailed Comparisons Of eSIMs For Malaysia

Eskimo eSIM for Malaysia

If you're after an unlimited data eSIM that's affordable, flexible, and travel-tested, Eskimo is easily one of the best options for Malaysia in 2025.

Unlike many eSIM providers that advertise “unlimited” data but sneak in fair-use caps or slowdowns, Eskimo truly means unlimited – and you can hotspot from your phone, which many unlimited plans (like Holafly) don't allow.

Whether you're using Google Maps in Kuala Lumpur, tethering your laptop in the Cameron Highlands, or uploading videos from Langkawi, Eskimo offers smooth connectivity without stress or throttling.

Why Eskimo Stands Out:

• Real unlimited data with no speed cap during normal usage
• Hotspot/tethering is supported (a big deal for digital nomads)
• Pay-as-you-go flexibility — top up only what you need, even by USD
• Data transfer between friends via the app — ideal for travel buddies
• Excellent coverage across Malaysia, connecting to major networks
• Super fast, hassle-free eSIM setup (QR or manual code via app)

Eskimo gives you full control over your data. The app is streamlined and easy to use, and you can top up on the go or even gift GB to a fellow traveller.

I used Eskimo while navigating Penang, on a road trip to Ipoh, and during island hopping between Langkawi and the Perhentians – the coverage and speed were reliable the entire time.

Here's a breakdown of the unlimited data plans, valid for different durations:

2 Days – USD 6.00 (USD 3.00/day)
3 Days – USD 7.00 (USD 2.33/day)
5 Days – USD 10.00 (USD 2.00/day)
7 Days – USD 13.00 (USD 1.86/day)
10 Days – USD 17.00 (USD 1.70/day)
15 Days – USD 24.00 (USD 1.60/day)
20 Days – USD 31.00 (USD 1.55/day)
25 Days – USD 37.00 (USD 1.48/day)
30 Days – USD 42.00 (USD 1.40/day)

You can also customise your plan by topping up any amount you like, rather than being locked into a preset GB package or expiry time – a rare feature in the eSIM world.

Claim your free 1GB Eskimo eSIM here!

While other eSIMs sometimes struggle in crowded or remote areas, Eskimo kept my signal strong during weekend markets in KL, and even on ferries between islands. I was able to tether my laptop without issues, stream content, and upload photos to Instagram all day – without worrying about speed drops or “fair use” limits.

Plus, being able to send leftover data to a friend who ran out mid-trip felt like a game-changer.

Order Eskimo eSIM for Malaysia here

Holafly eSIM for Malaysia​​

Holafly is another popular eSIM provider that, unlike most others, offers unlimited data eSIMs. While it sounds great on the surface, there's a catch: they have a Fair Use Policy (FUP), which means your data speeds could be slowed down if you use too much data within a certain time frame.

Personally, I've had mixed experiences with this eSIM, so I wanted to share a bit about what I found — the good and the bad — so you can decide if it's the right fit for your Malaysia trip.

First, let's talk about the plans. Holafly offers a wide range of durations, which is super handy compared to other eSIM providers that usually limit you to standard options like 7, 15, or 30 days. With Holafly, you can be more flexible and pick exactly how long you need, which helps you avoid overpaying.

Here are the Holafly unlimited data eSIM plans for Malaysia:

• 1 day ‘unlimited' data = USD 6.90
• 3 days ‘unlimited' data = USD 12.90
• 5 days ‘unlimited' data = USD 20.90
• 7 days ‘unlimited' data = USD 29.90
• 9 days ‘unlimited' data = USD 34.90
• 10 days ‘unlimited' data = USD 36.90
• 14 days ‘unlimited' data = USD 47.90
• 20 days ‘unlimited' data = USD 61.90
• 30 days ‘unlimited' data = USD 74.90

Holafly connects to the major Malaysian networks like Maxis, Celcom, and Digi, so coverage was actually pretty solid in most places I went – including Kuala Lumpur, Penang, and Langkawi. I didn't have any major issues with staying connected, and setup was super easy with the QR code.

That said, the Fair Use Policy became obvious once I started using more data. After a day of hotspotting for work and uploading videos, I noticed my speed dropped quite a bit the next day — even though I hadn't done anything that felt too extreme. It was frustrating, especially when I needed fast internet to work or upload content on the go.

Holafly does allow hotspot usage, but it's capped at 500 MB per day. That's enough for a quick Zoom call or checking email on your laptop, but definitely not for heavy work days or streaming on multiple devices.

So, if you're mostly sticking to touristy areas and want the convenience of unlimited data (with the occasional speed hiccup), Holafly could still be a decent option for your Malaysia trip. Just be mindful of the FUP and hotspot limits – and maybe have a backup plan if you need consistently fast speeds.

Order a Holafly eSIM for Malaysia here!

Roamless eSIM for Malaysia

One thing I would like to give credits for this one is that its easy-to-use mobile interface.

If you're planning a trip to Malaysia and need a reliable eSIM for data, Roamless is definitely one to keep on your radar. I gave it a go recently to see how it stacks up, and here's what I found – plus some insider info you might not come across elsewhere.

Here are the Roamless Malaysia data plans available for 2025:

• 450 MB — FREE (great for testing or very light use)
• 1 GB — USD 3.95 (this is their most popular plan)
• 2 GB — USD 7.95
• 3 GB — USD 8.95
• 5 GB — USD 12.95
• 10 GB — USD 21.95
• 20 GB — USD 35.95

First up, Roamless offers a FREE 450 MB plan, which is perfect if you want to try out the service before committing. It's ideal for quick check-ins, messaging, or emergency use when you land. Beyond that, their most popular plan is 1 GB for USD 3.95, but they also have packages all the way up to 20 GB for USD 35.95 — plenty of options depending on how much data you think you'll need.

During my trip, I noticed the Roamless eSIM worked seamlessly on Malaysia's 4G and 5G networks, especially in Kuala Lumpur and Penang. The connection stayed strong even when I ventured slightly outside the city centre — something not all providers manage well.

A little-known fact is that Roamless partners with multiple local networks behind the scenes, so your device automatically connects to the strongest signal available. This roaming between local towers helps keep your connection stable and speeds consistent.

The app itself is super easy to use. I liked how it shows real-time data usage, so I could keep track without guessing or resetting my phone. You can also top up directly in the app, which came in handy when I underestimated my data needs halfway through my stay.

Also, there's no bonus perks like free VPNs or airport lounge access that some other providers throw in, but for straightforward data connectivity, it delivers.

For travellers who mostly need internet for navigation, social media, or streaming a few YouTube videos, Roamless is a no-fuss, wallet-friendly choice. Just be mindful of your usage since the higher data packages do come at a premium.

If you're someone who enjoys having a safety net, that free 450 MB plan is a great starter to test if Roamless works well with your device and needs. Plus, since it's prepaid and you manage it all from your phone, there are no hidden contracts or unexpected bills — a real peace of mind for travellers.

Order a Roamless eSIM here!

Airalo eSIM for Malaysia

After using Airalo on several trips across Malaysia – from the vibrant streets of Kuala Lumpur to the quieter beaches of Langkawi – it's become one of my go-to eSIM options for the country.

What I really appreciate is how simple it is to get set up before you even land, which means no scrambling at the airport to find a SIM card or deal with tricky local shops.

Airalo's app is straightforward – you pick your plan, pay, and activate in just a few taps. Their local Malaysia plans range from smaller, short-term options to bigger data packages that last a full month. For example, you can get 1GB for about USD 4.50, which is perfect if you're just passing through or need light data use for a week.

If you're planning a longer stay or heavy usage, the 20GB package for USD 40 is a solid choice, giving you enough data for navigation, streaming, and daily browsing.

Here's a quick snapshot of the current Airalo data plans for Malaysia in 2025:

• 1GB valid for 7 days: USD 4.50
• 2GB valid for 15 days: USD 8
• 3GB valid for 30 days: USD 10.50
• 5GB valid for 30 days: USD 15
• 10GB valid for 30 days: USD 25
• 20GB valid for 30 days: USD 40

One thing I've found helpful is that Airalo uses the Maxis 4G/LTE network here, which offers pretty reliable coverage in cities and popular tourist areas like Penang and Melaka. While the network is solid for most everyday needs, keep in mind Airalo doesn't yet support 5G in Malaysia – so you won't get the super-fast speeds some local SIM users might enjoy.

For travellers who plan to visit multiple countries in Southeast Asia, Airalo also offers regional plans with larger data allowances and longer validity – sometimes up to 100GB and six months—which can be really convenient if you want to avoid switching SIMs frequently.

All in all, Airalo is a reliable, hassle-free choice for Malaysia, especially if you want to get online right away without the fuss of hunting down a local SIM card on arrival.

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Order Airalo eSIM for Malaysia here

Jetpac eSIM for Malaysia

If you're after a straightforward, budget-friendly eSIM option for Malaysia, Jetpac is definitely worth a look. It's a no-frills service that offers reliable data plans with some neat extras, though it's data-only, so calls and SMS aren't supported.

Jetpac's local Malaysia plans range from a super cheap 1 GB for 4 days at just USD 1 (a great deal for new users) up to 40 GB for 30 days at USD 58. Here's the full breakdown:

• 1 GB for 4 days = USD 1
• 3 GB for 30 days = USD 4
• 5 GB for 30 days = USD 6.50
• 10 GB for 30 days = USD 17
• 15 GB for 30 days = USD 26
• 20 GB for 30 days = USD 29
• 30 GB for 30 days = USD 39
• 40 GB for 30 days = USD 58

Jetpac uses the Maxis and Celcom networks, supporting both 4G and 5G in Malaysia, so you can expect solid coverage and fast speeds in cities and many rural areas.

Keep in mind the eSIM must be installed within a year of purchase.

One standout perk with Jetpac is free airport lounge access if your flight is delayed by more than an hour – a rare bonus among eSIM providers. Just register your flight beforehand, and if there's a delay or cancellation, you'll automatically receive a LoungeKey voucher. Plus, Jetpac also offers a complimentary VPN service to keep your browsing secure while you're on the go.

On the downside, Jetpac's plans can be pricier compared to some other providers, especially if you need larger data allowances. Also, since calls and SMS aren't supported, it's best suited for travellers who mainly rely on data for messaging apps and internet browsing.

Overall, Jetpac is a solid choice for anyone wanting a reliable, easy-to-use eSIM in Malaysia with excellent network coverage and handy extras like lounge access and VPN — just be mindful of the data-only limitation.

Order Jetpac eSIM for Malaysia here!

Choosing The Best eSIM For Malaysia

What Is The Cheapest eSIM For Malaysia?

If you're just looking for the absolute cheapest eSIM for Malaysia, and don't need a ton of data, there are a few solid low-cost options – perfect for short stays or light internet users.

Airalo (Hello Malaysia eSIM) – 1 GB for 7 days = USD 4.50

These are data-only eSIMs, so they won't give you a local phone number or allow for calls/SMS – but that's pretty standard for budget eSIMs. As long as you're using apps like WhatsApp or Telegram, you'll be fine.

So if you're only in Malaysia for a few days and just need the basics, something like Airalo's 1 GB for USD 4.50 is your cheapest entry point. But for travellers who need more than just a bit of browsing and WhatsApp, you'll actually save more in the long run by going for a 10 or 25 GB plan instead.

Most Reliable eSIM For Remote Areas In Malaysia

If you're planning to go beyond major city hubs like Kuala Lumpur or Penang and explore Malaysia's more remote or rural regions – like the Cameron Highlands, Langkawi, or the islands of Sabah and Sarawak – having a reliable eSIM can make or break your trip.

That's where Eskimo comes in.

Eskimo eSIMs connect to Malaysia's top-tier networks, including Maxis, which is widely regarded as having the most consistent coverage across the country. Whether you're driving through small kampung towns or staying in jungle lodges, Maxis tends to outperform other carriers in areas where coverage often drops.

But Eskimo doesn't just rely on a strong network — what really sets it apart is how adaptable and feature-packed it is for travellers heading off the beaten path:

• Unlimited data – perfect for navigation, messaging, uploading content, or working remotely, even when you're far from city Wi-Fi
• Hotspot support – share your data with your laptop or travel buddies, ideal for digital nomads and remote workers
• Flexible top-up system – pay exactly what you need, no rigid bundles
• Data transfers – easily send data to a friend if they run out mid-trip
• Simple setup – instant activation via QR code or manual entry

FAQs About eSIMs In Malaysia