International Calling

How to Call Malaysia from Australia: A Step-by-Step Guide

Last Updated: September 5, 2025
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Connecting with friends, family, or business partners in Malaysia from Australia can feel like a maze of dialing codes and time zone calculations. Many people find international calls daunting. However, it doesn’t have to be complicated. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about making calls from Australia to Malaysia, ensuring your conversations are clear, timely, and affordable.

 

Whether you are reaching out to loved ones, managing business operations, or exploring new opportunities, understanding the proper dialing procedure is crucial. We will cover traditional methods and introduce you to modern, efficient solutions like Telfon, which simplifies calling Malaysia from Australia. For a quick check on current time differences, you can always consult a reliable world clock service like TimeandDate.com.

 

The Basics: How to Call Malaysia from Australia

 

Making an international call requires a specific sequence of numbers. This sequence ensures your call leaves Australia and reaches the correct country, city, and then the specific phone. The core components are always the same: your country’s exit code, the destination country’s code, and the local number.

 

Calling Malaysia from Australia: Step-by-Step

 

Here’s the fundamental structure you will use to call Malaysia from Australia:

 

  1. Australia’s Exit Code: Dial 0011. This tells your phone system you are making an international call.
  2. Malaysia’s Country Code: Dial 60. This directs your call to Malaysia.
  3. Area Code (if applicable): Dial the specific area code for the Malaysian city or region you are calling. (We will cover these later).
  4. Local Phone Number: Dial the recipient’s local phone number.

 

Calling from a Landline

 

Using a landline for Australia to Malaysia calling follows the standard international dialing format. It is a reliable method, though it might incur higher costs compared to other options.

 

Here are the steps for landline calls:

 

  • Dial 0011: This is Australia’s international access code. It signals an outgoing international call.
  • Enter 60: This is the country code for Malaysia.
  • Input the Area Code: Dial the specific area code for the Malaysian city you are trying to reach. (e.g., 3 for Kuala Lumpur).
  • Punch in the Local Number: Finish by dialing the local phone number.

 

Your complete landline dialing format will look like this: 0011 – 60 – [Area Code] – [Local Phone Number].

 

Calling from a Mobile

 

Calling Malaysia from Australia using a mobile phone is very similar to a landline, with one small difference. You can often use a plus sign (+) instead of the international exit code. This is especially useful when saving numbers in your phone’s contacts.

 

Follow these simple steps for mobile calls:

 

  • Dial + or 0011: Most mobile phones allow you to press and hold ‘0’ until a ‘+’ appears. This automatically covers the international access code. Alternatively, you can dial 0011.
  • Enter 60: This is the country code for Malaysia.
  • Input the Area Code: Dial the specific area code.
  • Punch in the Local Number: Complete the sequence with the local Malaysian phone number.

 

Your mobile dialing format will typically look like this: +60 – [Area Code] – [Local Phone Number] or 0011 – 60 – [Area Code] – [Local Phone Number].

 

Understanding Malaysian Phone Numbers

 

To successfully connect, you need to understand Malaysia’s phone number structure. This includes knowing the country code, specific area codes for different regions, and the typical length of local numbers. Getting this information correct prevents misdials and frustration.

 

Malaysia’s Country Code

 

The country code for Malaysia is +60. This two-digit number is essential for any international call directed to Malaysia. Always place it immediately after your international exit code or the plus sign.

 

For instance, when you want to call someone in Malaysia, the “60” part tells the global telephone network where to send your call. It is the first step in directing your communication to the right country.

 

Area Codes in Malaysia

 

Malaysian area codes are crucial for directing calls to specific regions within the country. These codes vary in length, usually one or two digits. You must include the correct area code after the country code and before the local number.

 

Here is a list of some common Malaysian area codes:

 

RegionArea Code
Kuala Lumpur, Putrajaya3
Selangor3
Johor Bahru7
Penang (Island)4
Ipoh (Perak)5
Melaka (Malacca)6
Negeri Sembilan6
Kedah, Perlis4
Terengganu9
Kelantan9
Pahang9
Sabah88, 89
Sarawak82, 84, 85, 86

 

Always double-check the specific area code for the city you are calling to avoid wrong numbers.

 

Phone Number Format in Malaysia

 

Malaysian phone numbers typically follow a consistent format once you include the country and area codes. Local numbers generally have 7 or 8 digits. Mobile phone numbers in Malaysia usually start with a ‘1’ after the country code and do not require an area code in the traditional sense, as the mobile prefix acts similarly.

 

Here’s how a complete number might look:

 

  • Calling a Landline in Kuala Lumpur (Area Code 3):

0011 – 60 – 3 – XXXXXXXX (e.g., 0011 60 3 12345678)

Or +60 – 3 – XXXXXXXX (e.g., +60 3 12345678)

 

  • Calling a Mobile Number in Malaysia (starts with 1):

0011 – 60 – 1X – XXXXXXX (e.g., 0011 60 12 3456789)

Or +60 – 1X – XXXXXXX (e.g., +60 12 3456789)

 

Always confirm the full number with the person you are trying to reach. This ensures accuracy and saves you time.

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Planning Your Call: Time and Cost

 

Understanding time differences and potential costs is key to a smooth international calling experience. A call at the wrong time can disturb someone, and unexpected charges can quickly add up. Planning ahead makes a big difference.

 

Best Time for Calling Malaysia from Australia

 

Malaysia operates on a single time zone, Malaysia Time (MYT), which is GMT+8. Australia, however, has multiple time zones and observes daylight saving in some states. This means the time difference can vary depending on your location in Australia and the time of year.

 

Here’s a quick guide to help you calculate the best time for international calls Australia Malaysia:

 

  • Perth (AWST – GMT+8): Same time as Malaysia. If it’s 10 AM in Perth, it’s 10 AM in Kuala Lumpur.
  • Darwin (ACST – GMT+9:30): Malaysia is 1.5 hours behind Darwin. If it’s 10 AM in Darwin, it’s 8:30 AM in Kuala Lumpur.
  • Brisbane (AEST – GMT+10): Malaysia is 2 hours behind Brisbane. If it’s 10 AM in Brisbane, it’s 8 AM in Kuala Lumpur.
  • Sydney, Melbourne, Hobart, Canberra (AEST/AEDT – GMT+10/11):

During Standard Time (AEST, typically April to October): Malaysia is 2 hours behind. If it’s 10 AM in Sydney, it’s 8 AM in Kuala Lumpur.

During Daylight Saving Time (AEDT, typically October to April): Malaysia is 3 hours behind. If it’s 10 AM in Sydney, it’s 7 AM in Kuala Lumpur.

 

General Recommendation: Aim to call between 9 AM and 5 PM Malaysian time. This usually translates to late morning or afternoon in most parts of Australia, especially if you consider the time difference. Always confirm the local time in Malaysia before dialing to avoid inconvenient calls.

 

Cost of Calling Malaysia from Australia

 

The cost to call Malaysia from Australia can vary significantly. Traditional landline or mobile carriers often charge high per-minute rates for international calls. These rates can quickly become expensive, especially for longer conversations.

 

Factors influencing costs include:

 

  • Your Provider: Different telecom companies have different international calling plans.
  • Type of Line: Landlines and mobile plans can have varied pricing.
  • Calling Packs/Add-ons: Some providers offer specific international calling bundles.

 

Here’s a general idea of how traditional vs. modern services compare:

 

  • Traditional Carriers: Expect rates anywhere from $0.50 to $2.00+ per minute, depending on your plan and the time of day. These costs can quickly deplete your budget.
  • VOIP Services & Virtual Number Providers (like Telfon): These services generally offer significantly lower rates, often just a few cents per minute. They leverage internet technology, reducing the costs associated with traditional phone networks.

 

Always check with your current provider about their specific international calls Australia Malaysia rates. However, consider alternative solutions if you plan to call frequently or for extended periods.

 

Why You Might Need to Call Malaysia

 

People call Malaysia for a variety of compelling reasons, spanning personal and professional needs. The vibrant culture, growing economy, and strong ties between the two countries mean frequent communication is essential. Understanding these motivations highlights the importance of reliable and affordable calling solutions.

 

Connecting with Loved Ones

 

Many Australians have family and friends residing in Malaysia. Whether it is a quick chat with parents, catching up with siblings, or saying hello to old friends, staying connected helps bridge the distance. Regular calls help maintain strong relationships and share life’s important moments.

 

  • Family Updates: Sharing news, celebrations, and everyday life events.
  • Friendship Maintenance: Keeping in touch with old classmates or travel buddies.
  • Holiday Greetings: Exchanging seasonal wishes and plans.

 

These personal connections are often the most common reason for making international calls.

 

Business Engagements

 

Australia and Malaysia share robust trade and business relationships. Companies frequently communicate for various operations, including:

 

  • Supply Chain Management: Coordinating logistics, orders, and deliveries.
  • Customer Support: Providing assistance to Malaysian clients.
  • Sales and Marketing: Reaching out to new leads or managing existing accounts.
  • International Hiring: Interviewing candidates or onboarding new staff.
  • Partnerships and Collaborations: Discussing projects and strategies with overseas partners.

 

Effective communication is vital for these business interactions to thrive. Businesses need dependable and cost-effective ways to reach their Malaysian counterparts regularly.

 

Travel and Tourism

 

Australians often travel to Malaysia for its stunning beaches, bustling cities, and delicious food. Before or during a trip, calls might be necessary for:

 

  • Booking Accommodations: Confirming hotel reservations or discussing specific needs.
  • Arranging Tours: Organizing travel plans with local agencies.
  • Emergency Contact: Reaching out for assistance while abroad.
  • Connecting with Locals: Confirming plans with people you met on your travels.

 

Reliable calling options ensure a smoother and safer travel experience.

 

Telfon: Your Smart Solution for International Calling

 

When it comes to making international calls Australia Malaysia, traditional methods can be costly and rigid. This is where modern solutions like Telfon step in, offering a flexible, affordable, and feature-rich way to connect globally. Telfon is a virtual phone calling app that leverages cloud technology to simplify international communication.

 

How Telfon Can Be Useful for Calling Malaysia

 

Telfon provides a robust platform that addresses the common challenges of international calling. It offers a virtual phone system, which is a powerful cloud telephony solution suitable for both individuals and businesses.

 

Here’s how Telfon makes calling Malaysia from Australia easier and better:

 

  • Cost-Effectiveness: Telfon significantly reduces the per-minute cost of international calls, making frequent communication affordable. It bypasses traditional carrier charges by using the internet.
  • Virtual Number for Malaysia: You can purchase a virtual number for Malaysia through Telfon. This means your contacts in Malaysia can call you back at local rates, making it more convenient for them. This feature is a game-changer for both personal and business use.
  • High-Quality Calls: Leveraging VoIP technology, Telfon delivers clear and reliable call quality, ensuring your conversations are smooth and uninterrupted.
  • Ease of Use: The app is designed for user-friendliness, allowing you to quickly set up and start making calls without complicated procedures.
  • Extensive Coverage: Telfon provides calling services to over 180+ countries, making it a versatile tool for all your international communication needs.

 

Benefits of Using Telfon for Australia to Malaysia Calling

 

Telfon is not just about making calls; it offers a suite of features that enhance your entire communication experience.

 

Consider these benefits:

 

  • International Calls: Enjoy low-cost international calling to Malaysia and beyond.
  • Virtual Numbers: Get local numbers in various countries, including Malaysia. This helps establish a local presence, whether for business or personal convenience.
  • Call Recordings: Record important conversations for future reference, training, or compliance. This feature is particularly useful for business.
  • Send & Receive SMS: Communicate via text messages, including bulk SMS capabilities for businesses.
  • WhatsApp Integration: Manage multiple WhatsApp accounts through one platform, streamlining your messaging.
  • Multi-Country Numbers Simultaneously: Manage multiple virtual numbers from different countries all within the same Telfon account.
  • Voicemail & Voicemail to Text: Never miss a message. Voicemail-to-text transcription saves time and ensures you get the message quickly.
  • Call Forwarding: Redirect calls to another number, ensuring you are always reachable.
  • User Analytics (B2B): Businesses can track call data, user activity, and manage budgets, providing valuable insights.
  • Custom Messaging Service & Number Blocking: Tailor your communication and manage unwanted calls.

 

Telfon serves HR personnel, sales executives, travel agencies, and businesses aiming for global interaction. It provides a comprehensive solution for modern communication challenges.

Start saving on international calls to Malaysia with Telfon.

 


Comparison: Traditional Calling vs. Telfon

 

Deciding how to make your international calls often comes down to balancing cost, convenience, and features. Let’s compare traditional calling methods with Telfon’s virtual number service to see which offers a better solution for calling Malaysia from Australia.

 

FeatureTraditional Calling (Landline/Mobile Carrier)Telfon (Virtual Calling App)
Cost Per MinuteOften high, can range from $0.50 – $2.00+Significantly lower, often just a few cents
Setup ComplexityStraightforward dialing, but international plans can be complexEasy app setup, intuitive interface
Call QualityGenerally good, but can depend on network congestionHigh-quality VoIP calls, internet-dependent
International SMSStandard, often higher rates for international textsSend & Receive SMS, including Bulk SMS for business
Virtual NumbersNot available, relies on your physical numberYes, purchase local Malaysian numbers for two-way communication
Advanced FeaturesLimited to basic calling/SMS, voicemailCall recording, WhatsApp integration, voicemail-to-text, analytics
Business SolutionsRequires separate business plans, often expensiveDedicated B2B features: user analytics, budget assignment, etc.
FlexibilityTied to specific carrier plans and devicesCloud-based, accessible from multiple devices, multi-country numbers
Cost TransparencyOften hidden fees or complex rate structuresClear pricing, often prepaid or subscription-based

 

As you can see, for anyone frequently making international calls Australia Malaysia, Telfon offers a clear advantage in terms of cost, flexibility, and a rich set of features. It represents a modern approach to global communication, moving beyond the limitations of older systems.

 

Key Takeaways

 

Successfully connecting with Malaysia from Australia requires understanding a few key steps and considerations. Whether you are using traditional methods or a modern solution like Telfon, proper preparation is essential for a smooth experience.

 

Here are the critical points to remember:

 

  • Dialing Sequence: Always start with Australia’s exit code (0011), followed by Malaysia’s country code (60), the area code, and then the local number. On mobiles, you can use +60.
  • Time Zones are Crucial: Malaysia is GMT+8. Be mindful of Australia’s multiple time zones and daylight saving to avoid calling at inconvenient times. Perth is the same time; Sydney can be 2-3 hours ahead.
  • Cost Varies: Traditional carriers can be expensive for international calls. Always check their rates or consider more affordable alternatives.
  • Area Codes Matter: Malaysian area codes direct your call to the specific region. Make sure you have the correct one.
  • Telfon Simplifies: For frequent or business calls, services like Telfon offer significant cost savings, virtual numbers (like a virtual number for Malaysia), and advanced features (call recording, WhatsApp integration, analytics).

 

Embracing these insights will help you make effective and economical calls to Malaysia.

 

Summary

 

Calling Malaysia from Australia is a straightforward process when you know the correct dialing codes and consider the time difference. This guide has provided a comprehensive breakdown, from the essential 0011 – 60 – [Area Code] – [Local Number] sequence for traditional calls to the convenience of mobile dialing with the + sign. We have covered Malaysia’s country code (60), common area codes, and typical phone number formats to ensure your calls connect successfully.

 

Moreover, we have explored critical aspects like determining the best time to call to align with Malaysian business hours or personal schedules, and the varying costs associated with international calls. For those seeking a more efficient and budget-friendly solution, Telfon stands out. This virtual phone calling app provides a robust platform for international calls Australia Malaysia. It offers competitive rates, the ability to acquire a virtual number for Malaysia, and a host of features such as call recording, SMS, and WhatsApp integration.

 

Whether your calls are for personal connection, business growth, or travel arrangements, Telfon empowers you to communicate globally with ease. It offers a modern, flexible, and feature-rich alternative to traditional telephone services, making your calling Malaysia from Australia experience seamless and affordable. Choose the method that best fits your needs, and stay connected with Malaysia effortlessly.

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

 

Here are some common questions people ask about calling Malaysia from Australia.

 

Q1: What is the country code for Malaysia?

The country code for Malaysia is +60. You must include this code after your international exit code (0011 from Australia) or the plus sign (+) on a mobile phone.

 

Q2: How do I dial a Malaysian mobile number from Australia?

Dial +60 followed by the Malaysian mobile number (which usually starts with a 1 and then an 8-digit number, e.g., +60 1X XXXXXXX). You do not need a separate area code for Malaysian mobile numbers.

 

Q3: What is the time difference between Australia and Malaysia?

Malaysia is GMT+8. The time difference with Australia varies:

  • Perth: Same time.
  • Darwin: Malaysia is 1.5 hours behind.
  • Brisbane: Malaysia is 2 hours behind.
  • Sydney/Melbourne (during AEST): Malaysia is 2 hours behind.
  • Sydney/Melbourne (during AEDT): Malaysia is 3 hours behind.

Always check the local time before calling.

 

Q4: Are international calls to Malaysia expensive?

The cost of calling Malaysia from Australia can be high with traditional landline or mobile carriers, often ranging from $0.50 to $2.00+ per minute. Services like Telfon offer significantly lower rates, usually just a few cents per minute, by using VoIP technology.

 

Q5: Can I get a Malaysian virtual phone number in Australia?

Yes, with services like Telfon, you can purchase a virtual number for Malaysia. This allows people in Malaysia to call you at local rates, making communication more convenient and cost-effective for them.

 

Q6: Do I need an area code when calling a Malaysian landline?

Yes, you need to include the specific area code for the Malaysian city or region you are calling. For example, Kuala Lumpur uses area code 3.

 

Q7: What are the benefits of using Telfon for calls to Malaysia?

Telfon offers several benefits, including low-cost international calls, virtual numbers for Malaysia, call recordings, SMS services, WhatsApp integration, voicemail, and advanced B2B features like user analytics and budget management.

 

Q8: What if my call doesn’t go through?

Check the dialing sequence carefully, including the exit code, country code, area code, and local number. Ensure you have sufficient credit or an active international calling plan. If issues persist, contact your service provider or Telfon support.

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