Travelers arriving in Kuala Lumpur Airport (KUL) can easily get a tourist SIM card and eSIM from Maxis/Hotlink, Celcom, Digi, U Mobile and other providers.
Searching for “Buy Malaysia SIM cards at Kuala Lumpur airport? You are at the right place because we will guide you step-by-step on how to buy (e)SIMs from different mobile operators at KLIA airport.
This article will show you everything you need to know about getting a SIM card at Kuala Lumpur Airport (KUL), including:
- Where to get SIM cards at Kuala Lumpur Airport?
- How is the registration process?
- How much does a SIM card for Malaysia cost at the KUL airport?
- Where to exchange money (for buying SIM cards and other purposes?
Here is the guide in details:
Table of Contents
I. Where to Buy a SIM Card at Kuala Lumpur Airport?
There are several options available for purchasing a SIM card right at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL). This allows travelers to easily stay connected from the moment they land in Malaysia.
The main mobile network operators present at KUL with SIM card kiosks or stores are:
- Maxis/Hotlink – Hotlink is the prepaid brand of the largest network, Maxis. You can find their kiosk in the airport before and after immigration.
- Celcom – Another major network, Celcom has a store located near the baggage belts in the arrival hall.
- Digi – Digi’s store is on Level 2 of the KLIA Main Terminal building. They offer data-centric packages for travelers.
- U Mobile – U Mobile’s kiosk is next to the Digi store on Level 2. They provide SIM cards and plans tailored for tourists.
- Tune Talk – An MVNO that runs on Celcom’s network, their counter is situated before immigration on Level 4.
In addition, there are also independent top-up kiosks near the immigration counters that sell SIM cards from all the main networks.
Where to buy a prepaid SIM card at KLIA2
There are many mobile phone and telecommunication stores at the Level 2 of the Gateway KLIA2 mall. They operate 24/24 and offer flexible and affordable call/data plans that can meet different budgets and requirements.
The Maxis/Hotlink store is available at the KLIA2. You can see it right after exiting out of the Arrival Hall.
You can set up your phone and top up as the guidelines at this store with the help of staff.
Celcom at KLIA2: If you go for Celcom services, then Celcom shop is also available as soon as you exit the Arrival Hall too, just next to Maxis/Hotlink store.
Digi at KLIA2: Keep walking out from the Arrival Hall to level 2 of the KLIA2 Mall, you also find Digi shop located at L2-75 for your inquiry. They offer Hello Malaysia Traveler’s Package with competitive rates on DD calls and Internet data packages.
U Mobile at KLIA2: The U Mobile shop at KLIA2 is located next to Digi Shop. Customers can select from different competitive prepaid, postpaid, high-speed mobile data plans. This shop provides services like postpaid and prepaid registration, bill payment, SMI/SME registration, MNP registration, upgrade/change of SIM card, or plan and smartphone purchase.
Tune Talk at KLIA2: You also find the store of Tune Talk available at level 2 of KLIA2. The prepaid service of Tune Talk offers no-frills voice and Short Messaging service (SMS) packages which meet the needs for a value-for-money, easily accessed product.
Other SIM cards/Phone booths: when walking to the Arrival Hall, you also find other booths selling SIM cards near the International Transfer Counters at the Satellite building.
Pro Tips:
- To make things easier, you should pre-order the SIM card at home and pick up it from the airport terminal KLIA2 after arrival.
- You can share the internet from a SIM card’s connection. Do not buy more than one if you travel with your family and friends.
II. How Much Does a SIM Card at KLIA Airport Cost?
SIM cards are available for purchase at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) and Kuala Lumpur International Airport 2 (KLIA2) from various mobile operators. Here is a table showing the price of SIM cards from major operators at KLIA airport:
| Operator | SIM Card Price | Included Data/Minutes |
|---|---|---|
| Celcom XPAX | RM 10 | RM 6 credit, 10GB Facebook data valid for 30 days |
| Digi Prepaid Plus Traveller SIM | RM 20 | 10 mins calls, 10 mins IDD calls, 2GB data valid for 7 days |
| Hotlink (Maxis) | RM 10 | RM 5 credit, 300MB data valid for 3 days |
| U Mobile | RM 10 | RM 6 credit, unlimited Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, 200MB data valid for 10 days |
As can be seen from the table, SIM cards from major operators Celcom, Digi, Maxis and U Mobile are available at KLIA airport for RM10-40. The SIM cards come with some included data or call minutes valid for 7-30 days, making them convenient for short term travelers arriving in Malaysia via KLIA airport. Digi and Celcom also offer special tourist SIM cards targeted at foreign visitors.
III. Opening Hours of SIM Card Stores at KLIA Airport
No need to worry about the opening hours of the SIM card stores at Kuala Lumpur International Airport if you arrive late. They all open 24 hours per day.
IV. Registration Process to Buy Malay SIM cards for Tourists at KLIA Airport
Everyone buying a prepaid SIM card in Kuala Lumpur International Airport will have to show any form of photo ID, so bring your passport. Your new Malaysia SIM card will be registered on your passport number and name and a copy will be taken in the store.
Also, do not forget to bring your unlocked mobile device + your visa in case needed.
Better option:
If you want to avoid this then you can order an international SIM card online or get an eSIM for Malaysia. No passport registration is needed for these types of tourist SIM.
V. Why Buy Malaysia eSIM for Tourists Online Before Arriving at KUL Airport?
Traveling to Malaysia and looking for a hassle-free way to stay connected? Skip the long lines and potential language barriers at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL) by purchasing a Malaysia eSIM online before you arrive!
Here’s why buying your eSIM online from malaysiaesim.com is the smart choice for tourists:
Convenience:
- Skip the airport hassle: No need to hunt for a physical SIM card or deal with complicated activation processes. Simply download your eSIM and activate it on your phone before you even land.
- Save time and money: Avoid airport kiosks and their often inflated prices. Get your eSIM at a competitive rate online.
- No need for a physical SIM: An eSIM is a digital SIM, so you don’t have to worry about carrying an extra card.
Flexibility:
- Choose the plan that suits you: Malaysiaesim offers a variety of data plans to fit your needs, whether you’re a short-term visitor or staying for an extended period.
- Multiple country options: Explore Southeast Asia with ease! Malaysiaesim offers eSIMs that cover Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, Indonesia, and even a 7-country Asia package.
Peace of mind:
- Reliable and secure: We are a trusted provider with a proven track record of delivering reliable eSIM services.
- Customer support: Our friendly and helpful customer support team is available 24/7 to assist you with any questions or concerns.
Ready to experience the convenience of an eSIM? Visit malaysiaesim.com and choose the perfect data plan for your Malaysian adventure!
Plans that may interest you
VI. Free WiFi at KLIA Airport
There is no registration needed to use the WiFi in KLIA. All you need to get connected is:
- If you use your mobile phone, first you need to disable your data service to avoid any roaming charges (it’s expensive).
- Turn on your WiFi
- Choose ‘Airport WIFI’
- Launch your browser to access the login page
- Choose the ‘Connect’ button
- Enjoy free WiFi at KLIA.
Remember that the FREE sessions on free WiFi connections at KUL is 240 minutes.
Pro Tip: Don’t forget to disconnect your device from the WiFi network after use.
VII. Extra Tips When Arriving at Kuala Lumpur Airport for Tourists
- At the Digi and Celcom airport stores, look for their tourist SIM packages that are tailored for short-term visitors. These packs typically come with an international calling quota as well as 1-2 weeks of data with 1GB daily and often cost around RM20-40.
- If those stores are too crowded, consider alternatives like Unifi Mobile (formerly TMgo), which also has a dedicated SIM counter at KLIA with SIMs for travelers.
- Make sure to bring your passport, as the SIM will need to be registered to your name and passport number. Registration is quick and can often be done in-store.
- Consider getting a SIM with higher data allowance if you’ll be using maps/navigation extensively during your stay. 10GB packages are reasonable for under RM50.
- Once you have the SIM activated, ensure mobile data roaming is turned off to avoid roaming charges before you leave the airport.
- Download WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger or similar before leaving your home country to message people while on WiFi until your new SIM is set up.
- Consider adding 2-3GB data top-ups every few days depending on your usage to make the most of the SIM throughout your trip.
- Don’t forget to power off your new SIM before leaving Malaysia to avoid potential roaming charges in your next destination.
VIII. FAQs
Where can I buy a SIM card at KUL airport?
You can buy SIM cards from various mobile operators like Maxis/Hotlink, Celcom, Digi, U Mobile etc. at the airport. Some shops are located before and after immigration/baggage claim. There are also third party kiosks.
What documents do I need to buy a SIM card?
You need to show your passport for registration. Some operators may request a copy of your passport ID page. Have your passport ready.
How do I register for a prepaid SIM card?
The SIM seller will ask for your name, passport number and details. They take a photo copy of your passport ID page for KYC compliance. Registration is quick – usually done while you wait.
How much does a tourist SIM cost at KUL airport?
Basic tourist SIM packs start from RM10-15 which gives you data and calls valid for 3-7 days. Bigger data packs are available for around RM30-50 with 14-30 days validity. Prices are slightly higher at airports.
What payment methods are accepted?
Most stalls accept cash in MYR only. A few may accept credit cards but cash is preferred. You can withdraw cash from ATMs at the airport.
Can I buy an eSIM at KUL airport?
No, eSIM is not available at the airport. It’s best to purchase Malaysia eSIM online from malaysiaesim.com before your trip for a seamless connection.
How do I top up my prepaid SIM balance?
You can top up at retail outlets, e-wallet apps or via the operator’s app/website using debit/credit card. Top-ups have validity and extend the SIM’s active period.
