How to Call Malaysia from Singapore?

Singapore and Malaysia are closely linked through business, family, and daily travel. With so many Malaysians living and working in Singapore, cross-border communication has become a regular part of life. Whether you are checking in with loved ones or coordinating with a business partner, knowing how to place a call correctly and affordably is essential.

In this guide, you will learn how to dial Malaysian landline and mobile numbers from Singapore, understand the typical costs involved, and explore modern alternatives such as eSIMs and messaging apps. These tools can help you stay connected while saving money, especially if you make international calls frequently.

Direct Dial a Malaysian Number from Singapore

Calling Malaysia from Singapore is straightforward once you know the correct dialing format. Whether you are contacting a landline or a mobile number, the process only requires a few simple steps.

Steps to Direct Dialing a Malaysian Landline

1. Start with the international access code: Dial 001 (Singapore’s IDD code).

2. Enter Malaysia’s country code: Dial 60.

3. Add the area code: For example, dial 3 for Kuala Lumpur or 4 for Penang.

4. Dial the local number: Exclude the leading 0.

Example: To call a Kuala Lumpur landline, dial:

001 60 3 XXXXXXXX

Malaysia Landline Area Codes by City

Steps to Direct Dialing a Malaysian Mobile Number

1. Start with the international access code: Dial 001.

2. Enter Malaysia’s country code: Dial 60.

3. Dial the mobile number: Omit the starting 0.

Example: To call the mobile number 012 3456789, dial: 001 60 12 3456789

Cost of Calling Malaysia from Singapore

The cost of calling Malaysia from Singapore depends on your service provider, the type of call, and whether you are using a bundled international calling plan. While standard rates can be higher, most telcos now offer promo rates or IDD packages to help lower the cost.

Standard Rates

Calls to Malaysia typically range between SGD 0.10 to SGD 0.50 per minute, depending on whether you are calling a mobile or landline number and the provider you are using.

Promo Rates

Some telcos offer discounted IDD bundles that reduce the per-minute charge, especially for frequent international callers. These are often accessible through add-ons or subscriptions that renew monthly.

VoIP Options

Apps like Skype, Zoom, and Google Meet allow you to call Malaysian numbers over Wi-Fi or data. While some calls are free, others may require credit purchases — but the rates are usually lower than traditional IDD charges.

Communication Apps

If you only need to talk or video call using internet data, WhatsApp is the most common platform in both Singapore and Malaysia. With a stable internet connection and an active data plan, WhatsApp calling is completely free.

Singapore to Malaysia Call Charges Comparison

Rates as of May 2025

To get the best value, check your telco’s app or portal for available IDD add-ons. Even if you only call occasionally, using a promo plan can significantly lower your international calling costs.

Use International SIM Cards to Save on Calling Cost

If you regularly travel between Singapore and Malaysia, or need to stay connected across borders for work, international SIM cards or eSIM plans can be a smart and cost-effective choice. These plans are designed to eliminate high roaming fees while keeping you connected to both mobile data and voice services across multiple countries.

Unlike traditional roaming that charges by the minute, international SIMs let you use data or minutes at local or reduced rates, often with bundled features for multiple destinations.

Benefits of International SIM and eSIM Cards

• Lower call and data rates across countries like Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, and beyond

• No need to swap SIMs when crossing the border, especially useful with eSIM

• Flexible activation for short-term trips or long-term travel

• One number, one plan that works across regions

• Compatible with most modern smartphones that support dual SIM or eSIM

For travelers who want uninterrupted service without the complexity of multiple SIM cards, international SIMs make it easy to move between countries while managing everything from one dashboard or app.

International SIM and eSIM Plans in Singapore

Popular options as of May 2025

Circles.Life’s Jetpac stands out for offering seamless regional access, particularly across Southeast Asia, with plans that can be activated digitally and used instantly.

WhatsApp Calling to a Malaysian Mobile Number

WhatsApp is the most widely used communication app in Malaysia, with millions of active users across both personal and business contacts. Whether you are trying to connect with a friend, a colleague, or a company, chances are they are already using WhatsApp.

To make a WhatsApp call from Singapore to Malaysia, all you need is a stable internet connection and a data plan. This makes WhatsApp one of the easiest and most affordable ways to stay in touch across borders, especially when paired with a reliable mobile data provider like Circles.Life.

Steps to WhatsApp Call a Malaysian Number

Step 1: Save the Malaysian number in your phone using the international format.

Example: +60 12 3456789

Step 2: Open WhatsApp, go to the chat or contact list, and tap the call or video call icon.

Your call will go through using mobile data or Wi-Fi, without any extra charges. It is perfect for casual conversations or even business follow-ups.

Data Plans for Seamless WhatsApp Call to Malaysia

Suggested Circles.Life Plans as of May 2025

With any of these Circles.Life plans, you can make WhatsApp calls confidently, knowing you have enough data and coverage to stay connected without interruption.

Making Video Calling to Malaysia

Video calls have become one of the most personal and effective ways to stay connected across borders. Whether it is a quick family check-in or a remote business meeting, video calls help you bridge the distance with a more human touch.

Apps like WhatsApp, Skype, Zoom, and Google Meet allow you to make high-quality video calls using your mobile data or Wi-Fi. These platforms are either free or offer low-cost options, making them much more affordable than traditional international call rates.

To ensure a smooth video call:

• Use a stable mobile data plan or Wi-Fi connection

• Choose a quiet, well-lit environment

• Close background apps to reduce lag or interruptions

If you are using a Circles.Life data pack, especially one with 5G access or high monthly caps, you can expect smooth, high-resolution video quality during your calls.

Quick Tips for Calling Malaysia from Singapore

Staying connected with someone in Malaysia is easy when you follow a few best practices. Whether you are using a direct call, a messaging app, or a video platform, these tips can help you avoid issues and make the most of your call.

Consider Time Zones

• Singapore and Malaysia are in the same time zone (GMT+8).

This makes scheduling calls simple. There’s no need to adjust for time differences. You can call any time during regular business or personal hours without worrying about delays or confusion.

• Ensure Good Connectivity

Use a strong Wi-Fi or high-speed mobile data connection to avoid disruptions, especially for WhatsApp, Zoom, or Skype calls. Unstable connections can lead to call drops, audio lag, or poor video quality.

• Save Numbers in the Correct Format

Always save Malaysian contacts using the international format. Use +60, followed by the mobile or landline number, without the starting 0.

Example:

Mobile number: 012 3456789Saved as: +60 12 3456789

This ensures your contact appears correctly in messaging apps and avoids call failures.

Staying Connected Has Never Been Easier

With today’s technology, calling Malaysia from Singapore is fast, simple, and cost-effective. Whether you are dialing directly, using an international SIM, or placing a WhatsApp or video call, you have multiple ways to stay in touch without the stress of high fees or complicated setups.

From travel eSIMs and data bundles to VoIP apps and promo IDD rates, there is a solution for every type of user, whether you are a frequent traveler, remote worker, or someone catching up with loved ones across the border.

Modern options like Circles.Life Jetpac, international eSIMs, and flexible SIM-only plans make it easier than ever to communicate clearly and affordably between Singapore and Malaysia.

Common Questions About Calling a Malaysia Number

How do I call a Malaysian mobile number from Singapore?

Dial 001, followed by 60 (Malaysia’s country code), then the mobile number without the leading 0.Example: To call 012 3456789, dial 001 60 12 3456789.

How much does it cost to call Malaysia from Singapore?

Rates generally range from SGD 0.10 to SGD 0.50 per minute, depending on your telecom provider and whether you use pay-per-use, promo packs, or bundled plans.

Can I use free apps to call Malaysia?

Yes. Apps like WhatsApp, Skype, and Zoom allow you to make voice and video calls over Wi-Fi or mobile data. These are ideal for regular communication without traditional call charges.

How do I call a 1800 Malaysia number from Singapore?

Calling a Malaysian 1800 number from Singapore may not be toll-free. In most cases, it is charged as a standard international call. Check with your provider to confirm the rates before calling.