You will find everything important about Digi eSIM and SIM cards for travelers in this guide, from coverage, best data plans, to how to top up, track your balance, etc.
Traveling to Malaysia? Wondering how to stay connected during your trip? You may have heard about different ways to stay online while traveling abroad, be it using WiFi pocket, international roaming, or using travel SIM/eSIM cards. Among them, using SIM/eSIM seems to be the most convenient and familiar for most of us.
In this article, you will find everything you need to know about Digi eSIM and SIM cards for tourists. Let’s start!
In December 2022, Celcom and Digi merged to form a single company called CelcomDigi. While both companies still offer separate brands for now, they operate under the same network. This means that information previously specific to Digi SIMs may now also apply to Celcom SIMs, and vice versa.
Table of Contents
I. Quick Facts About Digi
Digi Malaysia is one of the major mobile network providers in the country, offering affordable cellular services to both locals and travelers. Founded in 1995, Digi Malaysia was previously known as Digi.Com Berhad but is now part of the merged entity CelcomDigi Berhad.
In addition to standard voice and messaging plans, Digi provides nationwide 4G LTE mobile data coverage of over 93% through its extensive network infrastructure. This allows tourists to stay connected online while exploring destinations across Malaysia. With around 11 million subscribers as of 2022, Digi has widespread availability and popularity among Malaysians.
After merging with Celcom in 2023, the new CelcomDigi entity has a combined subscriber base of over 20 million users, served by around 18,000 retail sites and dealers nationwide. This large network of access points means Digi SIM cards and refills are conveniently purchased throughout your travels in Malaysia. Opting for a prepaid Digi plan is a budget-friendly way for visitors to utilize local cellular services during their trip.
II. Digi Coverage and Speed in Malaysia
Facts about Digi Coverage and Speed in Malaysia:
- Digi is the outright winner of the Download Speed Experience Award, as our users on its network reported the highest average download speeds in Malaysia of 20.5 Mbps.
- Digi got the award of Malaysia’s fastest and most consistent mobile network 2020-2021
- Digi has a good network coverage in most parts of Malaysia, but if you plan to visit more rural areas or remote islands, you may experience some connectivity issues.
Digi Coverage Map
Digi has extensive 4G LTE and 3G coverage across Malaysia that spans urban and rural areas. The network reaches over 98% of populated regions in Peninsular Malaysia, East Malaysia (Sabah and Sarawak), and federal territories. This wide coverage makes Digi a great choice for travelers who want basic connectivity regardless of where they are in the country.
The coverage is generally good throughout the country (even outside of Kuala Lumpur).
Digi Speed
Not only does Digi have broad coverage, but it also delivers fast speeds. Digi tied for first place for 4G download speeds in Malaysia, averaging 34.6 Mbps. Upload speeds on Digi’s network were also very good, coming in second place at 9.3 Mbps. These speeds allow you to browse websites, check maps, and share photos and videos quickly while on the go in Malaysia.
5G Performance
Digi particularly excels for 5G speeds and experiences. The operator ranked first for 5G video, games, and voice app quality. Digi’s 5G download speeds also led the market, averaging an incredibly fast 407.8 Mbps. With speeds like these, you can take advantage of high bandwidth activities like streaming HD video on your mobile data plan while in Malaysia.
Overall, with its widespread 4G network and blazing fast 5G, Digi provides tourists with reliable and high quality mobile connectivity throughout their travels in Malaysia. The network’s broad coverage and top performance make Digi an excellent choice for travelers who want fast, uninterrupted access to apps and internet services anywhere in the country.
III. Top Digi SIM Cards for Tourists
Below we just list down 6 Digi prepaid NEXT plans which are cared about by travelers most:
- NEXT15: RM 15 = 6GB data + Unlimited Social Media internet to access TikTok, Instagram, Twitter, Facebook + 1GB extra hotspot + Free 5G booster = 30 days validity
- NEXT 20: RM20: 15 GB data + Unlimited social media internet to access TikTok, Instagram, Twitter, Facebook + 1GB extra hotspot = 30 days validity
- Best seller – NEXT35: RM35 = 30 GB data + Unlimited calls + Unlimited social + 3GB extra hotspot = 30 days validity
- RDY: RM68 = 50 GB data + Unlimited gaming with OGL + Unlimited calls + 5% Game Credit Cashback = 30 days validity
- NEXT30: RM30 = 20GB + Unlimited social + 2GB extra hotspot = 30 days validity
- NEXT Unlimited 40: RM40 = Unlimited Internet + Unlimited Calls + 10GB Extra hotspot = 30 days validity.
These plans are only available at the time of writing this article. For the most updated details about Digi prepaid SIM card plans, check out the Digi website.
Pro Tip:
- To activate your Digi SIM card, simply dial *128# from your phone and follow the guide.
- Digi has a MyDigi app that allows you to manage your account, check your balance, and purchase additional data or packages.
IV. Top Digi eSIM for Tourists
Digi offers several eSIM options for tourists. These eSIMs are easy to activate and offer affordable rates for both data and voice calls.
Here are some of the top eSIM plans for tourists of Digi operators:
Operator | Plan Name | Plan Details | Price |
Digi | Digi Prepaid Unlimited eSIM | Unlimited local data, unlimited calls to all networks, 30GB hotspot, 5GB roaming data | RM30 for 7 days |
Digi | Digi Prepaid Best eSIM | 10GB local data, unlimited calls to all networks, 300 minutes IDD calls to 10 countries, 5GB roaming data | RM38 for 30 days |
Digi | Digi Prepaid Live eSIM | 8GB local data, unlimited calls to all networks, 100 minutes IDD calls to 10 countries, 2GB roaming data | RM28 for 30 days |
Note: Prices and plan details are subject to change, and may vary depending on the country and region. It is advisable to check with the operator for the latest information and availability.
V. Where to Buy Digi eSIM and SIM Card?
1. How and Where to Buy a Digi SIM Card?
You can purchase a Digi SIM card at any Digi store, airports, street vendors, or online through the authorized dealers’ websites.
Some details about place to buy a Digi SIM card in Malaysia, along with their pros and cons:
1.1 Buy Digi SIM Cards at airports
At the airports, Digi provides tourist SIM cards named 4G PLus Traveler SIM for foreigners. Only foreigners can buy this type of SIM.
There are 2 variants:
- 20 MYR = 2 GB, 7 GB (1GB/day) of using social media data for WhatsApp, WeChat, Facebook + Unlimited WeChat + 5 MYR in credit + 10 local minutes + 10 IDD calls (international direct dialing) to India, China, Japan, Indonesia, Singapore and Thailand for 7 days.
- 40 MYR = 10 GB, 15 GB (1GB/day) social media data for WhatsApp, WeChat, Facebook + Unlimited WeChat + 5 MYR in credit + 30 local minutes + 30 IDD calls (international direct dialing) to India, China, Japan, Indonesia, Singapore and Thailand for 15 days.
Note: Unlike most travel SIM cards of the other mobile operators in the world, you can still keep using your SIM Card even after your plan expires if you buy an internet plan – Is that cool?
Digi SIM cards are available for buying at most major airports in Malaysia, including:
- Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL) (in Terminal 2 – KLIA 2 – (the budget terminal with AirAsia, Cebu Pacific, Jetstar, Scoot, or JC Cambodia)
- Kota Kinabalu International Airport (BKI)
- Penang International Airport (PEN)
- Langkawi International Airport (LGK)
- Senai Airport
- Kuching Airport
1.2 Buy Digi SIM Cards at Digi retail stores
Digi has thousands of retail stores and service centers across Malaysia, where customers can buy Digi SIM cards and other mobile services.
When you get into the store, you will be told to choose a starter kit from a wall to select a phone number. You can choose it randomly. It is OK.
The SIM card for tourists is called Digi Prepaid Live and costs 8 MYR.
You will get 5 MYR in credit + 300 MB (valid for 5 days) + 10 GB for music and video streaming a month (2.5 GB/week) + 1000 mins and SMS to 6 Buddyz (user-selected Digi numbers + 500 MB basic internet (Capped as 64kbps)
Note:
- Dial *888*1# to redeem your free 300 MB
- To set up Buddyz, dial *128*1*8#, and enter the selected Digi number(s)
1.3 Buy Digi SIM Cards at Convenience stores
Digi SIM cards are available at convenience stores like 7-Eleven, 99 Speedmart, KK Super mart, Family Mart.
1.4 Buy Digi SIM Cards Online
The 3-party ecommerce platforms like Lazada, Shopee also provide Digi Malaysia SIM / eSIM for tourists. You can also buy SIM online in other Digi authorized dealers’ websites.
Let’s see a brief comparison table:
Place to Buy | Pros | Cons |
Digi retail stores | Wide range of products and services available | Limited locations, may have queues during peak hours |
Convenience stores (e.g. 7-Eleven) | Wide availability and extended hours | Limited range of products and services available |
Airports | Easy to buy, ready for usage right after landing at Malaysia | Expensive and limited packages to choose from |
Online (e.g. Lazada, Shopee) | Convenience of shopping from home | Delivery times may vary by provider, may not be able to check SIM card compatibility |
Mobile phone stores | Wide range of products and services available, often have knowledgeable staff | Prices may be higher compared to other places, limited locations |
Notes:
- The availability of Digi SIM cards may vary depending on your location and the specific Digi plan you are interested in.
- When buying Malaysia SIM cards or Digi SIM, you need to show your passport and register it with the provider. If buying at the store, the staff will help you do it and activate the Digi SIM card for you.
2. How and Where to Buy a Digi eSIM?
Does Digi offer eSIM services to prepaid customers?
Yes, eSIM is available for all Digi Prepaid, Digi Postpaid and Digi Broadband subscribers.
To buy a Digi eSIM for tourists, you can buy from:
- Digi offline stores,
- Digi websites,
- Mobile phone stores,
- Travel eSIM providers.
The problem is, if you buy eSIM from Digi directly, you have to deal with the SIM card registration scheme of Malaysia and it can be time-consuming.
That is why, as a tourist, you should buy eSIM from travel eSIM providers like Malaysiaesim.com. You can find great deals on Malaysia eSIM plans for tourists on our website. We offer a variety of plans to suit your needs, and you can purchase and activate your eSIM in minutes.
Plans that may interest you
VI. Calls and SMS Rate of Digi in Malaysia
Service | Rate |
Calls to all networks | 30 sen/minute |
SMS to all networks | 15 sen/SMS |
MMS to all networks | 25 sen/MMS |
IDD calls to Indonesia, Singapore, and Thailand | 50 sen/minute |
IDD calls to other countries | From RM1/minute |
Note: Rates are subject to change, and may vary depending on the plan and package. It is advisable to check with the operator for the latest information and availability.
VII. How to Top up Your Digi SIM
You can top up your Digi SIM card online, through the Digi app, or by purchasing a top-up voucher at any Digi store.
- MyDigi app: Download the MyDigi app from the App Store or Google Play Store and log in to your account. From the home screen, select “Reload” and follow the prompts to top up your account using a credit card, debit card or online banking.
- Online: Go to Digi’s website and select “Reload” from the top menu. Enter your phone number and follow the prompts to top up your account using a credit card, debit card or online banking.
- Retail stores: Visit any Digi retail store, 7-Eleven, or other authorized dealers to purchase a top-up voucher. Scratch the voucher to reveal the PIN number, and dial 123<PIN># to reload your account.
- ATMs: Use your ATM card to reload your account at any ATM that displays the MEPS or VISA logo. Select “Prepaid Reload” and follow the prompts to top up your account.
- USSD code: Dial *123# from your Digi phone and select “Reload” from the menu. Follow the prompts to top up your account using a credit card, debit card or online banking.
Note: The top-up methods and availability may vary depending on your location and the Digi plan you are using. It is advisable to check with the operator for the latest information and availability.
VIII. How to Check Digi Balance – All Digi USSD Codes
Service | USSD Code |
Check balance | *126# |
Check data usage | *116# |
Check prepaid credit | *122# |
Check postpaid bill | *128# |
Check current plan | 1281*1# |
Activate a plan | *116# |
Deactivate a plan | 2380# |
Check rewards | *338# |
Subscribe to a service | 1281# |
Unsubscribe from a service | 1282# |
Check own number | 1261# |
Check roaming rates | *136# |
Check PUK code | 1228# |
IX. FAQs about Digi
What is Digi’s network coverage in Malaysia?
Digi has 96% population coverage across Malaysia according to their own figures from 2022. They have rolled out 4G/LTE coverage nationwide in collaboration with Celcom, while 5G is currently being rolled out via the national wholesale network Digital Nasional Berhad (DNB).
How do I get a Digi prepaid SIM card?
Digi prepaid SIM cards are sold under the brand CelcomDigi Prepaid 5G Edisi Kuning. They can be purchased from Digi/CelcomDigi outlets located around Malaysia, including airports and major shopping centres. Starter packs are priced around RM8-15.
How do I top up my Digi prepaid balance?
Digi prepaid credit can be topped up using vouchers purchased from Digi outlets, convenience stores, supermarkets etc. Top-ups ranging from RM5-100 provide validity from 5-120 days respectively. Top-ups can also be done via the MyDigi app using credit/debit cards.
What data packages does Digi offer?
Digi offers various short-term and long-term data packages starting from 1GB packages valid for 1 hour for RM1, up to 14GB packages valid for 30 days for RM70. There are also unlimited data packages valid for 1 day, 7 days or 30 days. More data can be purchased separately as add-ons if needed.
Does Digi offer international roaming packages?
Yes, Digi provides various roaming packages to numerous countries in Asia, Europe and the Middle East. These include daily, 3-day and 5-day packages with certain data and call/SMS allowances. They also offer inflight roaming on Airbus.
How can I check my Digi prepaid balance and data usage?
Users can check their prepaid credits by dialing *126# from their Digi number. To check data package balance and usage, dial *200# and select option 1 for “Check Quota”. The MyDigi app also allows balance and usage checks.