Remote work from Malaysia: internet speeds, co-working and keeping your accounts safe

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The short answerMalaysia suits remote workers: reliable fibre in cities, plenty of co-working spaces, a time zone that overlaps with Asia and part of the UK afternoon, and low living costs. Base yourself in Kuala Lumpur, Penang or Johor Bahru, use a VPN on public networks, and get the correct pass rather than relying on a tourist entry.

Remote work from Malaysia: internet speeds, co-working and keeping your accounts safe — Photo: MART PRODUCTION / Pexels

In this guide

Step 1: Sort the right permission
Step 2: Choose a base
Step 3: Check the internet
Step 4: Protect your accounts
Step 5: Plan around time zones

If your work is online, Malaysia is one of the easiest places in Asia to try remote life. Here is how to set it up.

Step 1: Sort the right permission

Tourist entry is for leisure. For longer remote stays, read the DE Rantau guide.

Step 2: Choose a base

Kuala Lumpur: the most services and co-working choices.
Penang: lifestyle, food and a smaller community.
Johor Bahru: close to Singapore.

Step 3: Check the internet

Ask the host or hotel for a speed test, and have a mobile data backup SIM or eSIM. See our SIM and eSIM guide.

Step 4: Protect your accounts

Use a VPN on public networks, two-factor authentication, and a password manager.

Step 5: Plan around time zones

Malaysia is 7 or 8 hours ahead of the UK, so your morning overlaps with the UK's early afternoon.

Prices, rules and availability change. Check the current details on the booking page before you pay.

Frequently asked questions

Is Malaysia good for remote work?

Yes. Cities have fast internet and many co-working spaces, and costs are lower than the UK.

Do I need a VPN for remote work in Malaysia?

It is not required, but it adds protection on public networks.