Starlink Internet Malaysia

It’s official: SpaceX’s Starlink has finally launched its satellite internet service in Malaysia, promising a game-changing internet experience for users throughout the country.

This comes following the receipt of the necessary Network Facility and Service Provider License, which has enabled the space company to legally offer its services in Malaysia.

What is Starlink?

For the uninitiated, Starlink is a satellite broadband service under SpaceX that offers high-speed broadband with lower latency than traditional GEO satellites.

In regions without 4G/5G or fibre connectivity, this can be a groundbreaking solution.

What is Starlink’s speed?

In terms of internet speed, the company claims customers can expect to see download speeds of approximately 100Mbps. For a monthly subscription fee of RM220 (without a contract), Malaysians can now explore a new frontier of connectivity.

Is Starlink Internet expensive?

Yes, Starlink Internet in Malaysia is quite expensive. The service does not come without a one-time initial investment. The necessary hardware kit for Starlink costs RM2,300 and includes the Starlink dish, a base, a Wi-Fi router, and associated cables. This Standard Kit should suffice for most residential users and everyday applications.

Businesses and power users, on the other hand, might need to consider the High Performance Kit, with its heftier price tag of RM11,613. Although a significant investment, it provides additional benefits, such as enhanced durability against extreme environments and a larger dish size, which enables it to connect to more satellites and withstand high temperatures. This hardware is equipped to handle demanding enterprise applications, making it a worthy consideration for those requiring robust internet solutions.

Notably, regardless of which kit users opt for, the subscription price remains the same, but do factor in an additional RM100 for shipping. For peace of mind, Starlink also offers a 30-day return policy. If within that period users find the service unsatisfactory, they can return the hardware for a full refund.

What are the differences between Standard Kit and High-Performance Kit?

In terms of technical specs, both Standard and High-Performance kits come with a motorised self-orienting satellite dish. The WiFi router provided supports up to 802.11ac WiFi 5 with dual-band 3×3 MIMO.

The High-Performance kit features a larger dish size (575mm x 511mm) and higher average power usage (110-150W) compared to the standard kit’s dish size (513mm x 303mm) with an average power usage of 50-75W.

How do I check Starlink coverage are in Malaysia?

To check for updates on Starlink’s coverage map for Malaysia, you can follow this guide:

1. Visit the Starlink website: https://www.starlink.com/map/
2. Zoom into Malaysia map
3. Check whether your area is in the coverage or not
4. Done

Is Starlink available to university students in Malaysia?

Yes, Starlink is indeed accessible to university students in Malaysia. The UiTM campus in Kuala Pilah was the inaugural recipient of a Starlink satellite device, handed over by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.

This marks UiTM as the first higher education institution in Malaysia to utilize this technology.

What else should I know about Starlink Internet in Malaysia?

Here are some information that you need to know before subscribing to Starlink:

1. Costs Involved: Starlink’s Standard Hardware comes with an initial payment of RM 2,358.84, which includes the Starlink Dish and Indoor WiFi Router. Additionally, there is a monthly plan fee of RM 220.00, making it a competitive choice for high-speed internet access.
2. Impressive Speeds: One of Starlink’s significant advantages is its impressive download speeds ranging from 25 to 100 Mbps and upload speeds of 5 to 10 Mbps. With such speeds, you can seamlessly stream, work, and connect with the world without any lags or disruptions.
3. Equipment and Installation: Upon subscribing to Starlink, you’ll receive the Starlink Dish and Indoor WiFi Router. However, it’s essential to note that the Starlink WiFi Router lacks a LAN port. To use LAN connectivity, you’ll need to purchase an Ethernet Adapter from the Starlink Shop.
4. Installation Considerations: To ensure optimal performance, the Starlink Dish must be installed outside the premises, facing the open sky, similar to how satellite TV antennas are positioned. This guarantees a clear line of sight for the satellite connection.
5. Location Restrictions: Starlink’s service is available exclusively for registered addresses. It is not permissible to use the equipment on other unregistered locations or for roaming purposes. This restriction ensures fair usage and adherence to the terms of service.
6. Cancellation and Refund Policy: You have the flexibility to cancel your Starlink subscription at any time. If, for any reason, you are dissatisfied with the service, you can return all the hardware within 30 days and receive a full refund.
7. Network Integration: Starlink can be integrated into mesh WiFi networks and other setups. Starlink offers a separate Mesh WiFi Node option for users looking to expand their network coverage. Alternatively, you can connect the Starlink Ethernet Adapter to WAN ports of other compatible routers like ASUS, TP-Link, DLink, or Ruckus.
8. Usage Restrictions: For users on the Standard Plan, there is a Fair Usage Policy (FUP) in place, especially when engaging in activities that consume high bandwidth, such as peer-to-peer (P2P) downloads. However, specific details about the FUP limits are not readily available.

The much-anticipated Starlink service is now available for purchase across Malaysia, both in Peninsular and East Malaysia. This presents a thrilling opportunity for Malaysians to tap into SpaceX’s cutting-edge technology, promising to shape the country’s internet connectivity future.

So, whether you’re situated in a city center or remote countryside, Starlink aims to ensure everyone can enjoy the benefits of high-speed, reliable broadband service.