Starlink Malaysia Review: Real-World Usage In Rural Sabah

In this article, I will share my review and experience using Starlink Malaysia on Banggi Island, Sabah. If you need information about the real-world usage of Starlink, this article might be useful to you.

Starlink, a satellite internet service owned by SpaceX, has begun operations in Malaysia. It offers high-speed internet access using a network of low-Earth orbit satellites.

The primary advantage of Starlink is its ability to provide fast and stable internet connections in remote and rural areas, typically hard to reach with traditional internet services.

The Purpose of This Writing

This article shares my review and installation guide for Starlink based on my experience in Banggi Island, Sabah. I will provide insights into Starlink’s pros, cons, unique features, and installation

Additionally, the article will provide a step-by-step guide on installing and configuring Starlink equipment, including tips to ensure optimal internet performance.

The goal is to offer useful and practical information for those interested in or planning to use Starlink.

I have also written about this in Malay language at this link.

Background of Starlink’s Launch in Malaysia

The launch of Starlink in Malaysia is a significant step in improving internet access in the country.

As is well known, the state of Sabah has a unique topography and geography. Therefore, it poses a significant challenge to access the internet, especially in rural and remote areas (including isolated Banggi Island). Thus, Starlink’s satellite technology offers a solution to this problem.

With satellites orbiting the Earth at a low altitude (Low Earth Orbit – LEO), Starlink can provide high-speed internet access with low latency, something that previously seemed impossible, especially in remote areas.

This facility is particularly relevant for Banggi Island, where access to infrastructure like fiber optics is unlikely.

Here are some ways in which Starlink overcomes these challenges:

1. Access in Remote Areas: Starlink uses a constellation of low-orbit satellites, enabling it to provide internet to areas that are hard to reach with ground infrastructure. This is significant for residents in remote and isolated areas in Sabah.
2. Less Reliance on Ground Infrastructure: Unlike traditional internet services, Starlink doesn’t require extensive cables or ground infrastructure. This reduces the cost and time needed to bring internet to remote areas.
3. High Speed: Starlink offers high internet speed and low latency, a significant improvement compared to other slower satellite internet options (such as the ConnectMe service). This enables internet use for various purposes, including education, business, and health.

However, there are also challenges to address in using Starlink, such as the high cost of installation and equipment, and the need for precise antenna orientation.

Nevertheless, with this technology, Starlink has great potential in overcoming internet connection challenges in Sabah and advancing digital access across the state.

Starlink Installation Guide

Here, I share my experience installing and setting up Starlink Internet

Where Can You Get the Starlink Kit?

1. Visit the official Starlink website, choose the service package you want, and complete the purchase process.
2. You will need to provide credit/debit card information for payment and an address for the delivery of the Starlink kit.

How Much Does Starlink Cost In Malaysia?

Starlink offers various packages depending on your needs. You can refer to their service plans.

1. Standard Plan: This is the plan I use. It often provides good internet speed and is sufficient for basic needs like web browsing, streaming, and communication.
2. Priority Plan: This plan is for users who need higher speeds and better stability. It comes at a higher price and is suitable for business or intensive internet use.
3. Mobile Plan: For those who are constantly on the go and do not stay long in one place.

Additionally, the cost of installation and equipment should be considered, which might involve an upfront payment for the Starlink kit.

I purchased the most basic subscription package (standard) which costs RM220 per month. However, you must first order the Starlink kit, which costs RM2300 + RM100 (shipping cost). Once the internet connection is activated, then you need to pay RM220.

For preparation, the budget is as follows:

• RM 2400 (Starlink Kit + shipping cost) – First payment
• RM 220 (once the internet is activated) – Recurring monthly payment

Estimated Delivery Time

The official courier for Starlink in Malaysia is DHL. Delivery time may vary depending on your location. In my case, it took about 7 days to arrive in Kudat from Kuala Lumpur.

You will be provided with a tracking number and status updates on your shipment via email.

What Items Are Included in the Starlink Kit?

The list of items delivered in the Starlink Kit includes:

1. Satellite Antenna
2. “X”-shaped base
3. Power Cable and Ethernet Cable
4. WiFi Router

Below is a brief video unboxing of the Starlink kit that I made:

Brief Description of Each Item:

• The antenna is used to receive signals from the satellite.
• The base provides support for the antenna.
• Cables connect the antenna to the router and power source.
• The WiFi router is used to distribute the internet signal in your home.

Starlink Installation Process

The process of installing Starlink is very straightforward. Watch the video below, which explains how to install Starlink.

In summary, the steps for installing the Starlink antenna are as follows:

1. Attach the antenna to the provided base.
2. Choose an open location without obstacles for the antenna, usually outdoors or on a rooftop.
3. Connect the antenna to the router using the Ethernet cable.
4. Connect the router to the power source.

Tips for Finding the Best Location for the Starlink Antenna

The primary objective is to find an area free from obstructions.

Ensure the Starlink antenna is installed in an area unobstructed by trees or tall buildings. A higher location usually yields better results.

This was proven by what I did.

I tied my Starlink antenna to a wooden pole to make it higher than the roof of the house. This method allowed me to achieve internet speeds exceeding 200 Mbps!

How to Activate Starlink Service?

1. Download the Starlink app on your smartphone. Follow the instructions in the app to activate the service using the account information you created during purchase. iPhone users can directly go to the app store through this link.
2. In the Starlink app, you can configure basic settings like the WiFi network name and password. You can also monitor signal strength and make adjustments to the antenna’s orientation if necessary.
3. After successfully activating the internet connection, you will receive an email from Starlink informing you that the internet connection is active and your card will be charged RM220.

Additional Tips to Optimize Starlink Usage

1. Choose the Right Antenna Location: Ensure the antenna is installed in an open and high location, free from obstacles like large trees or buildings, to maximize signal reception.
2. Antenna Alignment: Use the Starlink app to assist you in aligning the antenna. The app can provide directions on how to get the strongest signal. From my observation, the antenna often points toward the northern sky, where the Starlink satellite constellation might be located.
3. Ethernet Connection: Connect your important devices directly using an Ethernet cable to the Starlink router for better speed and stability, especially for activities that require low latency.
4. Performance Monitoring: Use the Starlink app to monitor the performance and strength of your connection. This helps in identifying problems and making necessary adjustments.
5. Software Updates: Ensure your router and Starlink equipment are always updated with the latest software to ensure optimal performance and security.
6. Usage in Bad Weather: Internet connection may be affected in bad weather conditions like heavy rain or storms.
7. Technical Support: Make sure you understand how to contact Starlink technical support and file complaints in case of technical issues.

By following these tips, you can optimize your experience with Starlink, ensuring you fully benefit from this advanced satellite technology.

Starlink’s Performance

Here is my review of Starlink’s performance after using it for about a month.

Does Starlink Have an Internet Quota?

Currently, there is no quota imposed for this standard package (unlimited). However, as I understand from the official Starlink website, data speeds might be slightly reduced during peak times.

You can see the Starlink Fair Use Policy for more details.

Speed and Consistency

Starlink offers impressively high internet speeds, faster than other internet providers even in urban areas.

For example, the average speed in Kudat town is around 3 – 10 Mbps (4G cellular network) or only 30 Mbps (Celcom fiber or Unifi). However, Starlink’s performance exceeds 200 Mbps in Banggi Island (a rural area of Kudat district), which is far faster than in urban or town areas.

This speed enables smooth internet usage for browsing, downloading, and other online activities.

In terms of consistency and stability, it varies depending on the weather. So far, I have experienced minimal disruptions. Only occasionally there are outages lasting 2-5 seconds.

When compared with other internet service providers in Sabah, especially in remote areas like mine, Starlink offers speeds hundreds of times higher and better stability. This is a major advantage for users in areas not reached by high-speed internet coverage.

Latency

As mentioned earlier, Starlink’s performance is influenced by weather conditions.

However, throughout my usage, Starlink has shown moderate latency (20 – 70ms) most of the time, which is acceptable for video calls. For online gaming, however, I feel this level of latency is less suitable, especially for intensive games.

In remote areas, where alternative providers have higher latency, Starlink successfully provides a better experience with much lower latency.

User Experience

As of writing this review, I have had a positive experience with Starlink. Web browsing is smooth without interruptions, and video streaming runs in high quality without frequent buffering.

For other activities like online gaming, there is a slight delay in response. However, it’s understandable since it uses satellites, so it’s highly dependent on various factors like cloud thickness and rain.

Overall, Starlink brings a significant change in terms of speed, stability, and latency of the internet in Sabah, especially in areas previously facing challenges in accessing good internet.

This improved user experience demonstrates Starlink’s potential as a future internet solution in remote and rural areas.

Comparison with Other Internet Services

Here are some points to consider:

Compared to regular internet services, Starlink’s price may be higher. However, considering various factors including the speed and stability offered, Starlink is very worthwhile for people living in remote areas.

In rural and remote areas, where other options may be limited or nonexistent, Starlink offers high value despite being more expensive than other alternatives that might be cheaper but less satisfactory.

For users living in urban areas with stable internet access such as fiber or 5G, Starlink becomes a rather expensive and less beneficial choice.

In conclusion, Starlink’s advantage in providing stable and fast internet access in remote areas offers high value for users in those locations. If you live in a city, it might be better to stick with your existing internet provider.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Starlink

Here I list some advantages and disadvantages of Starlink:

Advantages

1. Access in Remote Areas: Starlink provides high-speed internet in areas lacking regular internet services.
2. High Speed and Stability: Starlink offers fast internet speeds with stable connections.
3. Easy Installation: Starlink installation is relatively easy and does not require complex requirements.
4. Low Latency: Important for activities requiring real-time response such as online gaming and video calls.
5. No Contract: One advantage of Starlink is that it doesn’t bind you to a specific contract like other internet providers.

Disadvantages

1. High Cost: The subscription price and installation cost of Starlink may be higher compared to regular internet services. The price for the kit is RM2400, while the monthly payment is RM220.
2. Weather Dependent: Connection performance may be affected by bad weather conditions, like heavy rain or storms.
3. Need for Open Location: To get the best connection, the Starlink antenna needs to be installed in an open location free from obstructions.
4. Limited Customer Support: As a relatively new service, technical support might still be limited. You may need to troubleshoot problems yourself.

Overall, despite some drawbacks, Starlink still offers a unique opportunity for internet access, especially in remote and rural areas. Its advantages in providing high speed and stability can certainly have a significant impact in those areas.

Final Thoughts and Recommendations

Having lived in this remote area for 10 years, this is the first time I feel connected to the outside world.

Starlink is an innovative choice for internet access in Sabah, especially for those in remote areas or experiencing issues with existing internet services. It represents a step forward in bridging the digital divide and empowering communities with communication channels.

Before subscribing to Starlink, I suggest assessing your needs and geographical conditions first. If you live in an area difficult to reach by existing internet service providers, then Starlink could be an ideal solution.

However, you should also consider the cost factor and the need for installing the Starlink antenna in an open location.

Conclusion

Thank you for reading this review about using Starlink in rural Sabah.

I also hope you will share your experiences using Starlink, whether they are positive, negative, or additional tips you’ve discovered. Your sharing can help our community better understand and utilize this technology.

If you have any questions about Starlink, don’t hesitate to ask. I am ready to help answer your queries.