How to Call Malaysia from Singapore: A Complete Guide

If you're looking to call Malaysia from Singapore, whether for business, personal connections, or travel, understanding the proper dialing process is essential. While the process is straightforward, there are some key steps and codes you need to know to avoid unnecessary charges or dialing errors.

This guide will walk you through how to dial Malaysia from Singapore, explaining both landline and mobile number formats, and provide useful tips for making international calls.

Why Is It Important to Know the Correct Dialing Codes?

Knowing the correct dialing codes ensures your call connects smoothly without extra costs. Whether you’re dialing a landline or mobile number, using the right international dialing prefix, country code, and area codes is crucial.

Let’s break down everything you need to know to successfully call Malaysia from Singapore.

International Dialing Format for Calling Malaysia from Singapore

When calling Malaysia from Singapore, you must use the international dialing format. The format includes the exit code from Singapore, Malaysia’s country code, the area code (for landlines), and the local phone number. Here's how to dial correctly:

Key Components of International Dialing

The international dialing format consists of several components:

• Exit Code: The exit code tells your network that you're making an international call. For Singapore, the exit code is 001.

• Country Code: Every country has a unique country code. For Malaysia, the country code is 60.

• Area Code: Malaysian area codes are essential when dialing landline numbers. For instance, Kuala Lumpur uses area code 3, and Penang uses area code 4.

• Local Number: The final part is the local number. For mobile numbers, this will be the entire mobile phone number, and for landlines, you’ll omit the leading zero of the area code.

Example Format for Calling Malaysia from Singapore

• Landline: To call a landline in Kuala Lumpur (KL), the dialing format would be:

• Dial: 001 60 3 XXXXXXXX (Where 3 is the area code for Kuala Lumpur)

• Mobile: To call a mobile number like 012 3456789, you should dial:

• Dial: 001 60 12 3456789

Why It’s Important to Omit the Leading Zero for Landline Numbers

For Malaysian landline numbers, you need to omit the leading zero of the area code. For example, when dialing Kuala Lumpur (KL), instead of 03 for the area code, you should dial 3. This is an important distinction to avoid dialing errors.

Calling Malaysia from Singapore: Step-by-Step Process

Understanding the format is just the beginning. Here's a breakdown of the exact steps for calling a Malaysian landline or mobile number from Singapore.

Calling a Malaysian Landline from Singapore

Follow these steps when dialing a Malaysian landline:

• Start with the Singapore Exit Code (001): This is the international dialing prefix that tells the system you're making an international call.

• Enter Malaysia's Country Code (60): Every country has a unique country code. Malaysia’s country code is 60.

• Enter the Malaysian Area Code: For example, 3 for Kuala Lumpur, 4 for Penang, and so on.

• Dial the Local Landline Number: After the area code, enter the local phone number. Be sure to omit any leading zeros in the area code.

Example

To call a landline in Kuala Lumpur, you would dial:

• 001 60 3 XXXXXXXX

Calling a Malaysian Mobile Number from Singapore

To dial a mobile phone in Malaysia from Singapore:

• Start with the Singapore Exit Code (001): This is the international dialing prefix.

• Enter Malaysia’s Country Code (60): Again, this remains the same for all calls to Malaysia.

• Enter the Mobile Number: Malaysian mobile numbers typically start with 01, but you should omit the leading zero when dialing internationally.

• Dial the Rest of the Mobile Number: Once you’ve entered the country and mobile code, dial the rest of the phone number.

Example

To call a mobile number in Malaysia, 012 3456789, dial:

• 001 60 12 3456789

Special Considerations for Calling Malaysia

Before you make your call, there are some additional points to keep in mind:

Different Area Codes for Different Regions in Malaysia

Malaysia has multiple area codes, depending on the region or city. Some of the main area codes are:

• 3 – Kuala Lumpur (KL)

• 4 – Penang

• 6 – Johor Bahru

• 7 – Melaka

• 8 – East Malaysia (Sabah, Sarawak)

Be sure to check the area code for your specific destination in Malaysia to avoid dialing mistakes.

Understanding Mobile Phone Number Dialing

Unlike landline numbers, Malaysian mobile numbers begin with the digit 0 (e.g., 012, 013, 016, etc.), but when dialing internationally, you must drop the leading zero. So, instead of dialing 012 3456789, you would dial 60 12 3456789.

Costs and Tips for Calling Malaysia from Singapore

International calls can be expensive if you don’t choose the right plan or service. Here are a few tips to help you keep your costs down:

Use VoIP Services

Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) services, such as WhatsApp, Skype, or Viber, can offer more affordable rates for international calls. If you’re calling Malaysia regularly, these services can save you money.

Consider International Calling Plans

If you make frequent international calls, consider subscribing to an international calling plan. Some mobile carriers offer discounted rates for specific regions, including Malaysia.

Avoid Peak Hours

Some mobile providers charge higher rates for international calls during peak hours. If your call isn’t urgent, try calling during off-peak times for better rates.

Use Callback Services

If you need to make a long-duration call, using a callback service can be a cost-effective solution. These services give you the option to schedule calls at lower rates, especially for landline calls.

Common Issues When Calling Malaysia from Singapore

Call Connectivity Issues

Sometimes, international calls may not go through due to connectivity issues. To resolve this:

• Check the number format: Ensure you're using the correct country code, area code, and local number.

• Try redialing after a few minutes if the line is busy.

Misunderstanding Area Codes

Misdialing area codes is a common problem when calling landlines. Always double-check the area code for your destination city or region in Malaysia before calling.

High Call Charges

To avoid high call charges, always check your service provider’s rates and explore cheaper alternatives like VoIP or international calling cards.

Conclusion: How to Dial Malaysia from Singapore

Dialing Malaysia from Singapore is simple once you know the essential codes and formats. Whether you're calling a landline or mobile number, be sure to follow the steps outlined in this guide to avoid any connection issues or high charges.

By understanding the exit codes, country codes, and area codes, you can call Malaysia confidently and without confusion. If you make international calls frequently, consider opting for cost-effective calling options like VoIP services or international calling plans.

For more international dialing tips, check out our complete IDD Calling Codes Guide for Singapore.