PETALING JAYA: Starlink has started offering its broadband satellite Internet service in Malaysia with a monthly subscription price of RM220, offering up to 100Mbps (megabits per second) download speed.
The plan is offered without contract, as users will be required to purchase the Starlink Kit, which comes with an electronic phased array antenna with a base suited for ground installation, a WiFi router, and cables.
The standard version, which the company recommends for "residential users and everyday Internet applications", costs RM2,300.
The high-performance kit, priced at RM11,613, is recommended for "power users and enterprise applications".
Starlink, which is operated by Elon Musk's SpaceX, claimed that the high-performance kit offers improved weather resistance, three times better speeds at temperatures above 35°, and better visibility, especially in areas with unavoidable obstructions.
On its website, the company said that customers can try out its service for 30 days and, if not satisfied, return the hardware for a full refund.
Customers will also have to pay an additional RM100 for shipping and handling fees, with delivery times expected to be between one and two weeks.
Users will be expected to self-install the hardware and download its app to configure the settings to connect to the Internet.
In a tweet, the company said that Malaysia is the 60th country to receive its satellite service.
In an announcement last week, Communications and Digital Minister Fahmi Fadzil said that Malaysia issued the licence to allow Starlink to provide Internet services locally.
He added that the government is prepared to cooperate with satellite communication firms such as Starlink to achieve 100% Internet coverage in populated areas.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim held a discussion with Musk on July 14, welcoming the company's interest and decision to invest in Malaysia, which include launching Tesla EVs and Starlink.
In an online report, he said he has ordered 40 Starlink sets for schools, colleges, and universities.
"So during the meeting with Musk, I told Fahmi Fadzil yesterday to purchase the (Starlink) devices soon, and we will install them at any universities that need them.
"Musk said he would provide us with 40 devices. He also assured that if we need more units, we can also purchase to install them in rural areas," he was quoted as saying on July 15 in Sungai Petani.
