How to Use an eSIM in Malaysia (and Which One Is Best?)

eSIMs in Malaysia — Quick Overview

Mobile eSIMs are becoming the go-to choice for travelers who want to stay connected in Malaysia without stopping at an airport counter or swapping SIM cards.
I’ve personally tested both eSIMs and physical SIM cards in Malaysia, and while both have their advantages, I still slightly prefer regular SIM cards for speed and reliability.

That said, eSIMs can be a lifesaver — especially if your flight lands at KLIA in the middle of the night when all the mobile counters are closed.

Below I’ll compare Malaysia’s top eSIM options — Airalo, Holafly, Klook, and KKday — and explain how to buy and set them up.

Best eSIM for Malaysia: Quick Summary

If you don’t want to read everything, here’s the short version.

eSIM	Pros	Cons
Holafly	– Works instantly on landing – Unlimited data – 24/7 support	– Most expensive – No local number/calls
Airalo	– Reliable global brand – Regional Asia plans available	– Data-limited – Setup can be confusing – No local number
Klook	– Cheapest – Works as soon as you land	– Limited data – No calls or local number
KKday	– Local and regional plans – Some with call credit	– Pricier – Some require manual activation at airport kiosk

What’s an eSIM?

An eSIM (embedded SIM) is a digital version of a SIM card built right into your phone.
Instead of inserting a plastic card, you simply scan a QR code or follow an installation link — and your Malaysia data plan activates instantly.

With eSIMs, you can:

Buy your plan online before your flight.
Activate it on arrival in Malaysia.
Skip queues at KLIA or klia2.

Apps like Airalo and Holafly handle everything digitally, while Klook and KKday offer both eSIMs and traditional SIM cards for pickup at the airport.

Which Phones Are eSIM Compatible in Malaysia?

You’ll need a relatively new phone.

iPhone XR, XS, 11 or later support eSIM.
Most newer Samsung, Google Pixel, and Huawei models do too.
Check the full compatibility list on your eSIM provider’s website.

📱 Important: Your phone must be unlocked to use any local or international eSIM. If it’s carrier-locked, contact your home provider before traveling.

Malaysia SIM vs eSIM

Type	Pros	Cons
Physical SIM	– Unlimited data options – Local number for calls/Grab/Shopee – Clerk installs for you at KLIA – Cheapest daily rates	– Must pick up at airport – Need to remove home SIM – Counters close overnight
eSIM	– Works instantly on landing – No waiting in line – Easy to top up – Ideal for late-night arrivals	– Only for newer phones – Some have limited data – No local number unless you choose a special plan
Pocket WiFi	– Share with family/friends – Long rental options	– Must charge daily – Pick up/return required – Extra device to carry

Advantages of Using an eSIM in Malaysia

Instant connection: Turn off airplane mode, and your data works right away.
No waiting: Skip KLIA’s sometimes long SIM counter lines.
Perfect for midnight arrivals: Shops at KLIA and klia2 typically close between 12 AM and 5 AM.
No extra plastic: Eco-friendly and convenient.
Regional flexibility: Use one eSIM (like Holafly Asia plan) across Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, and more.

When I landed at KLIA at 2 AM, my Airalo plan connected within 30 seconds — no kiosk, no SIM tray.

Disadvantages of eSIMs

Limited data (on cheaper plans). You might get 3–10 GB instead of unlimited.
No Malaysian phone number for calls or Grab verification (unless you buy a premium Klook/KKday eSIM).
Setup confusion: QR code scanning and APN settings can feel fiddly, especially on Android.
Slightly higher price per GB than local prepaid SIMs like Digi, Maxis Hotlink, or CelcomDigi.

Airalo (Malaysia eSIM)

Airalo is the most popular eSIM for Malaysia.

Local “Malaya Mobile” plan offers 1–10 GB.
Easy to buy via the Airalo app before departure.
Works with major networks like CelcomDigi and Maxis.

It’s affordable (around US$4.50 for 1 GB or US$15 for 10 GB) and activates instantly on arrival.
The only downside: limited data and no local number.

I’ve used it twice — once in Kuala Lumpur and once in Langkawi — and found coverage solid, but 3 GB ran out fast because of Google Maps and TikTok.

Holafly

Holafly is pricier but the easiest to use.

Plans start from US$19 for 5 days (unlimited data).
24-hour live chat support.
Works right after you land — no manual setup required.
Asia-wide and global plans available.

If you’re hopping between Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam, Holafly’s regional Asia plan saves time and hassle.

The main con: it’s data-only — no calls or local number, so you can’t receive Malaysian OTPs or book via local call.

Klook and KKday eSIMs

Both Klook and KKday offer reliable local eSIMs backed by Malaysian telcos (like CelcomDigi or U Mobile).

Klook eSIMs

Budget options from RM15–RM40.
Some require QR activation; others need in-person registration at KLIA or klia2 booths.
Coverage and speed are generally good.

KKday eSIMs

Slightly higher priced but with more choices (some include local number).
Good for travelers staying longer or needing call/SMS functions.

Both Klook and KKday provide step-by-step setup guides in English, and customer service replies within a few hours.

How to Buy and Activate Your Malaysia eSIM

Before Your Flight

Choose a provider (Airalo, Holafly, Klook, or KKday).
Purchase your plan online or in-app.
Follow the installation steps — most send a QR code by email.
Install the eSIM on Wi-Fi before your trip, but don’t activate it yet.
Turn off “mobile data switching” so you don’t accidentally use your home SIM.

On Arrival at KLIA or klia2

Disable airplane mode and turn on your eSIM line.
Wait for automatic connection to CelcomDigi, Maxis, or U Mobile network.
If needed, restart your phone once.
Start browsing MalaysiaObsessed.com to plan your next meal. 😄

If you face issues, all major eSIM brands offer live chat help within minutes.

My Conclusion About eSIMs in Malaysia

Should you use an eSIM in Malaysia?
It depends on your travel style and priorities.

If you want instant connectivity and zero hassle, go with Holafly or Airalo.
If you want the cheapest option or local number, use Klook or KKday (or buy a physical SIM at the airport).
If you’re landing late at night, an eSIM is your best friend.

Personally, I still lean toward a regular tourist SIM — it’s cheaper, comes with unlimited data, and the friendly KLIA counter staff set everything up in seconds.

But if you prefer convenience and you’re traveling across several Southeast Asian countries, an eSIM is unbeatable.