How to Make International Calls from Malaysia to Bangladesh: Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Dial the Exit Code for Malaysia
When making an international call, you first need to dial the exit code of the country you are calling from. In Malaysia, the exit code is **00**. By entering this code, you signal your mobile service provider that you’re making an international call.
Step 2: Enter the Country Code for Bangladesh
After dialing the Malaysian exit code, the next step is to dial the **international country code for Bangladesh**, which is **880**. This code tells the system that you want to connect to a telephone line located in Bangladesh.
Step 3: Include the Area Code (if required)
Calls to landlines in Bangladesh typically require an area code. For instance, if you’re calling a landline in Dhaka, you would add **2** after the country code. Mobile phone numbers in Bangladesh do not always need an area code; they can be dialed directly once you’ve entered the country code.
Step 4: Dial the Local Number
Finally, you will need to enter the recipient’s local phone number. Be sure you have the correct digits. For calls to Bangladeshi mobiles, omit any leading “0” from the local number. Your full sequence should now look like this: **00 + 880 + area code (if applicable) + local number**.
Step 5: Complete the Call
Once you have entered the whole sequence — the exit code, country code, area code (if applicable), and the local number — press the call button to connect the line. Depending on your mobile plan, rates will vary, so consider verifying international calling charges with your service provider to avoid surprises.
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By following these simple steps, placing an international call from Malaysia to Bangladesh becomes a seamless experience!
Understanding Country Codes and Dialing Patterns: Malaysia to Bangladesh
What is a Country Code?
Every country in the world is assigned a unique **country code**, which is used to route international phone calls. When calling someone in another country, dialing their country’s specific code is required for the call to be recognized and connected. For example, if you’re calling Bangladesh from Malaysia, you need to include Bangladesh’s country code (**880**) before dialing the rest of the phone number.
The Exit Code: Starting Your International Call
Before the country code, you first need to input **Malaysia’s exit code**, which is **00**. This exit code tells telecommunications networks that the call is leaving the country. Without the correct exit code, your call won’t start. So, to call Bangladesh, begin by dialing **00**, which lets your service provider know you’re making an international call.
Area Codes in Bangladesh
For calls to landlines, an **area code** is necessary to specify the region or city you’re dialing. For instance, Dhaka, the capital city, uses the area code **2**, so you would need to enter this after the Bangladeshi country code. Mobile phone numbers typically don’t require an area code, and you can directly dial the local number once the country code is entered.
Telephone Number Format in Bangladesh
A complete telephone number in Bangladesh, especially for landlines, will contain the **country code (880)** followed by a **city/region-specific area code**, and then the **local number**. For example, if you’re calling a landline in Dhaka, your dialing sequence will look like this: **00 + 880 + 2 + local number**. For mobile numbers, omit any leading zeros, so it may look like **00 + 880 + local mobile number** when dialing from Malaysia.
Calling Bangladeshi Mobile Numbers from Malaysia
Mobile phone numbers in Bangladesh do not always require an area code. After dialing the Bangladesh country code (**880**), you may simply enter the entire mobile number without the preceding **”0″**. As such, if the local mobile number starts with “017”, you’ll dial it as **880 17 xxx xxxx** after the exit and country codes. This allows the call to get routed properly whether you’re using a landline or mobile in Malaysia.
International Dialing Complications and Solutions
Sometimes, international dialing might not work as smoothly as expected due to telecom restrictions or issues with international calling plans. In such cases, you might consider using a **calling card** or familiarizing yourself with **VoIP services** like Skype or WhatsApp, which can sometimes bypass traditional dialing complications while providing cost-effective alternatives. Always ensure that you check with your mobile carrier to confirm the rates and standard procedures for international calls before dialing.
Save Money on International Calls: Best Apps and Services for Calling Bangladesh
Why Use Internet-Based Services?
International calls can become expensive when using traditional phone networks, especially if you’re making frequent calls. Internet-based services, also known as **Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP)** platforms, allow you to make calls through your data or Wi-Fi connection—often at no additional cost or for a fraction of the price of standard international call rates. This can be especially useful when calling from Malaysia to Bangladesh, as VoIP apps usually offer better rates or even free voice and video calls over the internet.
WhatsApp: The Most Popular Option
One of the most widely-used free messaging platforms globally, **WhatsApp** allows you to send messages and make voice and video calls free of charge. As long as both parties are connected to the internet, the call quality is generally good. It’s an excellent option if your friends and family in Bangladesh also use WhatsApp, making international communication seamless without counting minutes or worrying about extra charges. Calls are internet-based, so there may be data usage if you’re not connected to Wi-Fi.
Skype: Affordable International Rates
**Skype** is one of the pioneers of VoIP technology and remains a solid choice for international communication. Skype users can call each other for free, and it offers affordable rates for calling landlines and mobile numbers in Bangladesh. You can purchase Skype credit or opt for a subscription plan that provides a certain number of minutes each month. It’s particularly useful if you need to call Bangladeshi landlines or local mobile numbers that don’t have access to the internet.
Google Voice: A Convenient Option if You Have a U.S.-Based Number
While **Google Voice** is primarily available for users with U.S.-based phone numbers, it’s worth mentioning if you have access to it. Google Voice offers reasonably priced international calls, including high-quality connections to Bangladesh. If you frequently call Bangladeshi landlines, Google Voice’s pricing structure may work in your favor. However, both you and the recipient must have internet connectivity to use this service effectively, and setup can involve a bit more configuration compared to other apps.
Viber: Free Calls Between Users
**Viber** is another VoIP service offering free calls between Viber users and low-cost international calling options to any phone number in Bangladesh. Similar to WhatsApp, Viber operates through an internet connection. It also supports text messaging, photo sharing, and group chats. For non-internet-based numbers, Viber Out offers competitive rates for international calls, making it a reliable choice for calling both landlines and mobiles in Bangladesh.
Zoom and Microsoft Teams: Business Alternatives
If you’re calling Bangladesh for business purposes, **Zoom** and **Microsoft Teams** are professional-grade platforms that support both voice and video calls. While primarily designed for meetings and conferences, they can also be used for personal calls with solid call quality. These are ideal for individuals or companies that already use these tools as part of remote work setups. The downside is that both parties need internet access, and generally, these services do not allow direct calls to landline or mobile numbers without purchasing additional minutes or credits.
Rebtel: Call Without the Internet
**Rebtel** is unique among calling services because it doesn’t necessarily rely on an internet connection. Rebtel uses real phone lines but offers very affordable international rates. The app works by routing your call over local phone networks, so you don’t need a strong Wi-Fi or data connection to make calls. It’s a great option if you’re facing poor internet connectivity conditions but still want to take advantage of better international calling rates than those offered by major telecom providers.
Consider International Calling Plans from Your Mobile Carrier
If you’re hesitant to rely on apps for international calling, check with your mobile service provider for **international calling plans**. Malaysian carriers like **Maxis**, **Celcom**, and **Digi** may offer bundles specifically tailored for Bangladesh. These often include a set number of minutes or discounted rates for international calls, which can save you money if you prefer the convenience of using your regular mobile network.
Calling Cards: An Old-School Alternative
If you want to avoid smartphone apps altogether, **calling cards** remain a tried-and-true solution for international calls. Many telecom providers in Malaysia offer prepaid cards specifically for Bangladesh to reduce international call fees. Simply purchase a card, dial the provided access number, and follow the prompts to connect to your desired number in Bangladesh. While not as popular as they once were due to newer technologies, calling cards are still a viable option if you prefer traditional landline networks.
Troubleshooting Common Issues When Calling Bangladesh from Malaysia
Issue 1: Call Not Connecting
One of the most common issues when trying to call Bangladesh from Malaysia is the call not connecting. This can be due to various reasons, such as dialing the wrong sequence of numbers. Double-check that you’ve entered **00 (Malaysia exit code)** followed by **880 (Bangladesh country code)** and the correct local number. If you’re calling a landline, remember to include the area’s **specific code** (e.g., Dhaka’s area code is **2**). Moreover, ensure that you’re not adding unnecessary digits; for mobile calls, omit any leading zero from the Bangladeshi number.
Issue 2: Poor Call Quality
If you experience poor call quality, such as crackling noise or delayed audio, connectivity issues between telephone service providers in Malaysia and Bangladesh may be responsible. First, try to improve your signal strength. If using a mobile device, check that you have a strong cellular network connection or switch to a Wi-Fi connection if making the call via VoIP services like WhatsApp or Skype. Also, verify that both ends of the call are free from heavy internet usage, which could affect call quality.
Issue 3: High Call Costs
Unexpected charges after international calls can be frustrating. Ensure you’ve checked with your Malaysian service provider regarding their rates for calls to Bangladesh beforehand. If the costs seem higher than expected, consider using internet-based services like **WhatsApp**, **Viber**, or **Rebtel**, which generally offer cheaper or even free alternatives to traditional calling methods. Alternatively, explore adding a specific **international calling plan** with your carrier to minimize unexpected fees.
Issue 4: Call Dropping Frequently
Frequent disconnections during an international call could be due to network congestion or weak signals either in Malaysia or Bangladesh. Try switching locations for better reception, especially if you’re on a mobile network. If this doesn’t resolve the problem, consider using a different service provider or switch to **VoIP services** that rely on internet connections instead of cellular networks. Apps like Skype or Google Voice may offer more stable connections for long-distance calls.
Issue 5: Blocked International Calls
Sometimes, international calls to Bangladesh might not go through because your mobile carrier has international calling disabled by default. To fix this, contact your mobile provider — such as **Maxis**, **Celcom**, or **Digi** — and request activation of international calling services. Alternatively, the person you’re calling in Bangladesh may face restrictions on receiving international calls, particularly if they are subscribed to a limited or prepaid mobile plan.
Issue 6: Time Zone Confusion
One potential issue isn’t technical but based on timing. Bangladesh operates in the **Bangladesh Standard Time (BST)** zone, which is typically **2 hours behind Malaysia**. So, if you’re calling someone in Bangladesh, be mindful of their local time to avoid trying to reach them during inconvenient hours. Most smartphones and devices now allow you to add multiple time zones to your clock settings, ensuring you always know the best time to call.
Issue 7: Incorrectly Configured VoIP Apps
If you’re using VoIP apps like **Skype**, **WhatsApp**, or **Viber** and run into problems, the issue may be due to improper app configuration. Make sure both you and your contact have updated versions of the app installed, and that required permissions such as access to the microphone and contacts are enabled. Additionally, confirm that your login credentials are correct and tied to a working account. VoIP platforms often require a good internet connection—so switching between Wi-Fi and mobile data could resolve intermittent issues.
Issue 8: Limited International Minutes on Mobile Plans
Your Malaysian mobile plan might include limited international minutes, and exceeding them could result in calls being blocked or cut off abruptly. Review your mobile contract for international call limits or bundled plans, and if necessary, upgrade to a more comprehensive package or purchase extra international minute add-ons. Many carriers offer affordable international options tailored specifically for frequently called destinations like Bangladesh.
Issue 9: Call Delays
Sometimes, users experience delays (lag) during calls to Bangladesh, where there is a noticeable delay between when one party speaks and the other hears it. This issue is usually due to the large distance the signal needs to travel or issues with networks. In such cases, opting for a **VoIP service** like **Zoom** or **Microsoft Teams** can provide a more reliable connection, particularly for video calls requiring minimal lag.
Issue 10: Carrier-Specific Restrictions
Certain telecom providers impose **restrictions** or differ in the way they handle international calls. For instance, your Malaysian mobile carrier may route international calls differently, resulting in additional charges or difficulties getting connected. Ensure you’re familiar with your carrier’s international call policy or review any protective blocks in place. Likewise, some Bangladeshi providers may block incoming international calls under certain plans or settings, so ensure the recipient’s carrier allows international calls.
International Calling Rates and Plans: Malaysia to Bangladesh Connection Guide
Understanding International Calling Rates
When making international calls from Malaysia to Bangladesh, it’s important to understand the rates associated with your mobile carrier or landline service provider. Typically, rates vary based on whether you’re calling a **mobile number** or a **landline** in Bangladesh. For instance, calling a mobile phone may incur higher costs compared to connecting with a fixed landline. Most Malaysian carriers like **Maxis**, **Celcom**, and **Digi** offer competitive international calling rates, but charges can fluctuate depending on peak hours, roaming policies, and additional international fees.
Choosing an International Calling Plan
For frequent callers, it’s worth considering an **international calling plan** offered by your service provider. These plans often include packaged minutes that allow for more cost-effective calls to Bangladesh compared to pay-per-minute rates. For example, **Digi** offers specific plans tailored for countries like Bangladesh, with reduced per-minute charges. Similarly, **Celcom** provides international plans that bundle several minutes at a discounted rate, allowing you to make longer calls without worrying about high fees.
Prepaid SIM Cards for International Calls
If you’re using a prepaid service instead of a postpaid plan, you can still benefit from lower international calling costs by opting for a **prepaid international calling package**. Both Maxis and Digi offer prepaid add-on services specifically designed for making international calls. By purchasing these add-ons, you can enjoy a set number of minutes to Bangladesh for a fixed price. For instance, Maxis might offer **IDD (International Direct Dialing)** bundles where users can top up their balance specifically for international calls.
International Roaming vs IDD Calls
It’s essential to differentiate between **roaming rates** and **IDD (International Direct Dialing) calls**. While roaming allows you to receive and make calls while traveling abroad, IDD services are meant for placing international calls from Malaysia to another country, like Bangladesh. Typically, **IDD calls are cheaper** than roaming, as roaming requires negotiating with foreign network providers. Always ensure that you’re placing an IDD call (using Malaysia’s exit code **00**) rather than roaming via a Bangladeshi mobile network when dialing internationally from Malaysia.
Promotional Offers and Discounts
Malaysian telecom providers often roll out **promotional offers** around national holidays or during special events like Ramadan, providing reduced international calling rates to heavily-used destinations like Bangladesh. Keep an eye on promotions from your mobile carrier, as these **limited-time deals** can significantly reduce your international calling expenses. Additionally, you might receive SMS notifications from your carrier offering discounted rates or additional international minutes as part of a loyalty program.
Tracking Your Call Usage and Avoiding Overcharges
To avoid surprises on your bill, make it a habit to **track your international call usage**. Many mobile service providers offer apps or customer portals where you can monitor the number of minutes you’ve used for calls to Bangladesh. If you regularly exceed your international minute limit, consider upgrading to a more comprehensive plan or seeking alternative methods like **VoIP services** to prevent overcharges. Monitoring your balance is particularly important if you’re on a prepaid plan, as international rates can deplete credits faster than expected.
Opting for VoIP as a Cost-Friendly Alternative
While traditional international calls can accumulate high charges, turning to internet-based solutions like **VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol)** services offers a reliable and cost-friendly alternative. Apps such as **WhatsApp**, **Viber**, and **Skype** allow you to make calls over Wi-Fi or a data connection, often at zero or very minimal cost. This is especially useful if you have access to a strong internet connection and want to bypass standard telecom charges for international calls to Bangladesh.
