Can you work as a digital nomad from a tropical island? Review of internet speeds, 4G coverage, and the best cafes for remote work on Perhentian.
Planning a trip to Digital Nomad Guide to Perhentian Island Malaysia? Here is the latest travel information you need right now. The standard adult fare for this route is typically RM 40.00 one-way and RM 80.00 for a return ticket. For children (aged 3-12), it is RM 25.00 one-way.
Perhentian is becoming a popular destination for digital nomads who want to work while enjoying sea views. While the island atmosphere is very relaxed, there are some important things about working logistics:
Internet & 4G: 4G coverage from Celcom and Maxis is the most stable on both islands. Most resorts provide WiFi, but it can be quite slow during peak times. We recommend getting a local SIM card as a backup hotspot.
Work-Friendly Cafes: On Perhentian Kecil, the Long Beach and Coral Bay areas have several cafes that offer a quiet atmosphere in the morning. Cafes like the one at Ombak Resort or Shari-La are often hubs for travelers to do light work.
Challenges: There are no reliable ATMs on the island, so make sure to bring enough cash from the mainland (Kuala Besut) before departing.
Island WiFi is notoriously patchy. It is best to purchase a local tourist SIM card (Celcom or Maxis) with a data plan and use your phone as a hotspot for reliable video calls.
Take a water taxi to Lata Air Berani, a unique hidden spot in Perhentian Besar featuring an icy cold natural fresh water spring right by the sea.
Find affordable dorms, A-frame huts, and budget chalets mainly located around Long Beach and Coral Bay.
Experience the thrill of swimming with harmless blacktip reef sharks at Shark Point, Perhentian Island. Join our guided snorkeling trips.
Direct speedboat transfer to Bubbles Dive Resort, Perhentian Besar. RM40 one-way, beach drop-off, daily departures. Book your boat ticket online.