In an exciting technological leap forward, SpaceX’s Starlink satellite broadband service has officially launched in Malaysia, paving the way for enhanced high-speed internet connectivity. This service claims to provide faster broadband with lower latency compared to traditional GEO satellites, transforming Malaysia’s digital landscape.
According to the official Starlink Malaysia page, customers can look forward to impressive download speeds reaching 100Mbps. The satellite broadband plan is affordably priced at RM220 per month, with no contractual obligations. However, users will need to purchase the necessary hardware separately.
Potential users can experience Starlink’s groundbreaking service through a 30-day trial. Should the service fail to meet their expectations, customers can request a full refund by returning the hardware.
To cater to different users’ needs, Starlink offers two distinct hardware options in Malaysia. The standard equipment retails at RM2,300, designed to suit residential users and everyday applications. Meanwhile, power users and enterprise applications might opt for the High Performance option, which costs RM11,613. This latter choice boasts enhanced weather resistance and can deliver three times the speed at temperatures above 35 degrees Celsius.
Both hardware kits include a motorised, self-orienting satellite dish. Moreover, the Starlink WiFi router supports up to 802.11ac WiFi 5 with dual-band 3×3 MIMO. Notably, the High-Performance kit features a larger dish and higher average power usage, optimized for its target audience.
In terms of performance, Starlink indicates that users can expect download speeds of 25-100Mbps and upload speeds of 5-10Mbps for standard fixed plans. The latency is projected to be between 25-60ms, akin to a 4G connection. However, potential users should be aware of Starlink’s Fair Usage Policy since satellite broadband remains a finite resource.
Interested consumers can now place orders for their Starlink kits via the website, with an estimated shipping time of one to two weeks.
The launch in Malaysia marks Starlink’s 60th country of operation worldwide. Interestingly, Malaysia becomes the second ASEAN country to welcome Starlink, after the Philippines.
Starlink received the green light from the MCMC to operate in Malaysia on 17th July 2023, following a teleconference meeting between Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and Elon Musk. The Malaysian government has already placed orders for 40 Starlink broadband kits for educational institutions, including UiTM.
The MCMC has permitted Starlink to operate as a wholly foreign-owned entity in Malaysia, waiving the 49 per cent threshold for foreign equity imposed on NFP(I) and NSP(I) licence holders, considering the substantial value and benefits Starlink Malaysia can deliver.
This article is based on a report by malaymail.com.
