Whether starting a new business in Malaysia or bringing your existing business online, creating your first website can take time and effort, especially considering the development and design costs.
You'll need to consider the necessary features, domain name, and web hosting. So, the most crucial question for any Malaysian business remains: how much does it cost to build a website?
In this guide, we'll cover the key considerations for getting your business online and provide a rough estimate of what you should expect to pay for a website in Malaysia in 2024. Our goal is to ensure you get the best value for your investment.
Let’s delve in, shall we?
How much does it cost to build a website?
Building a website in Malaysia involves various costs depending on the complexity and features required.
A basic website for a small business can cost between RM500 and RM3,000 per year. If you need a semi-professional website with custom domains and additional features, the cost can range from RM1,000 to RM15,000.
Looking to get your website online fast? Why not try a one-month free trial of GoDaddy’s Website Builder?
For more advanced needs, a professional website might cost between RM2,200 and RM30,000 per engagement, with annual maintenance fees of RM2,000 to RM5,000.
Large corporations and those requiring highly customized features can expect to pay between RM50,000 and RM100,000 or more.
Additional costs include domain registration (RM30 – RM200 per year), hosting (RM200 – RM2,900 per year), content management systems (RM0 – RM60,000+), SEO services (RM700 – RM5,000 per month), and ongoing maintenance should you choose to hire someone for this service (RM50 – RM500+ per month).
The basic building blocks of your website and their price
Every website consists of five fundamental components: domains, hosting, content, website security, and marketing. The table below offers an approximate pricing guide for each element.
Website building blocks and their cost
| Website feature | Cost upfront |
| Domain name | RM0 to RM30+ |
| Web hosting | RM10.99 to RM199.99 per month |
| Content | RM500 to RM5,000 |
| Website security | RM200 to RM1,500 per year |
| SEO and marketing | RM1,500 - RM50,000 |
Domain name
Buying the right domain name is vital because it will become an important part of your business’s identity.
Your new domain will come with GoDaddy Airo – our AI-powered solution that instantly creates a website, logo, email and more for your brand*.
The cost of your domain name will depend on the domain extension you choose (such as .com, .info, etc.), but you can expect to pay around RM30 per year for your domain.
There are special offers that can reduce the cost, and some domain extensions may be more expensive. For instance, an .ai domain can be pricier than more generic extensions because it is often used for AI projects, making it highly sought after and more costly.
Try the GoDaddy’s AI domain generator to find available domain names and choose the right one for your business.
Related: How to choose your perfect domain name.
Web hosting
Web hosting is essential for storing the various files that make up your website on a web server. If you want to learn more about what web hosting is and how it works, we have a comprehensive guide covering all the details.
Getting web hosting for your site is the first step to establishing an online presence in Malaysia.
Web hosting entails paying a company like GoDaddy to host your website on their servers.
The cost of hosting can vary significantly. At GoDaddy, the costs range from RM10.99 to RM49.99 per month (excluding virtual private servers and dedicated servers). Special offers can reduce the setup costs for your site.
Web hosting prices vary widely due to the different types of packages available, and the package you need will depend on your business requirements. Our web hosting comparison page is a useful resource for understanding the features included in our web hosting packages. We'll discuss this in more detail later.
Content writing services
The content you need will depend on the type of business you run and the functionality you want for your site. For simple sites, you might be able to create all the content yourself. However, for more complex sites, you may need to hire a professional to write copy for your website and potentially create images and videos.
It's wise to plan the content for your website before deciding on the type of site you'll create. Knowing what content you need will help you choose the best option for your business.
In Malaysia, copywriting services typically cost between RM500 to RM1,500 per page, depending on the complexity and requirements of the content. Additionally, engaging content creation, including graphic design and multimedia, can range from RM500 to RM5,000.
Related: How to write website copy
Website security
Website security is crucial to keep your site safe. You will almost certainly want to use an SSL certificate on your site, which typically costs between RM200 to RM500 per year.
Additionally, you may want to invest in additional website security software, with prices ranging from RM200 to RM1,500 annually, depending on the level of protection and features required.
SEO and marketing
When setting up your website in Malaysia, there may be some upfront costs related to search engine optimization (SEO) and marketing, especially if you hire a web designer. The cost of SEO services in Malaysia varies widely depending on the scope and depth of the services required.
GoDaddy’s digital marketing suite is an integrated marketing service that helps you take care of multiple aspects of marketing like SEO.
On average, local SEO campaigns start at around RM1,500 per month. More comprehensive SEO packages can range from RM3,000 to RM10,000 per month for ongoing services. For one-time SEO audits, the costs are typically lower, starting from RM1,500. High-end SEO services targeting extensive campaigns or highly competitive keywords can reach up to RM50,000 per year.
Other costs to consider when running a website
The type of website you run can incur additional costs, such as:
- Plugins and Extensions: To add specific functionalities to your site, you may need to purchase premium plugins or extensions that are not available for free. If you are using WordPress as a content management system (CMS), you can rest assured that most plugins are free.
- Email Hosting: For a professional email address that matches your domain name (e.g., info@yourbusiness.com), you may need to buy email hosting.
- Analytics Software: To monitor your website's performance and user behaviour, you might invest in advanced analytics tools beyond the free options.
- Legal: Depending on your business and website, you may need to cover costs related to copyright, compliance, or consultation with a legal expert, especially for privacy policies, terms of service, and GDPR compliance.
Website design costs
Website design pricing at a glance: Web Designer vs Website Builder vs WordPress
| Feature | With a web designer | With GoDaddy's Website Builder (Basic) | With WordPress |
| Design | RM943.60 | n/a | n/a |
| Website Builder annual cost | n/a | RM395.88 | n/a |
| Web hosting | RM635.88/year | included | RM515.88/year |
| Domain name | RM30/year | RM30/year | RM30/year |
| SSL certificate | RM330.26 | included | RM229.99/year |
| Maintenance | RM943.60 | n/a | n/a |
| Cost in first year | RM2,883.34 | RM425.88 | RM775.87 |
| Ongoing annual cost | RM2,075.92 | RM425.88 | RM775.87 |
Using a website builder, hiring a web designer, or utilising WordPress are all effective ways to create a great website. The primary benefit of a website builder is its cost-effectiveness, whereas a web designer can help you achieve a unique and customised look.
WordPress offers a versatile DIY option with a broader range of features compared to a website builder. If you’re planning to set up an e-commerce store, you can also consider these options based on your specific needs and budget.
Related: How to set up an e-commerce website with WordPress + WooCommerce
How much does it cost to have a website built for you in Malaysia?
To have a website built for you in Malaysia, expect to pay upwards of RM800, depending on the skill and experience of the designer you choose.
Web designers can create websites of any size with any functionality, but they often charge a premium price for their skills. While it’s possible to ask a web designer to build you a small site (a brochure-type site, for example), it might not be the most cost-effective option. After all, you’ll have to pay the fee for the site to be designed, then a monthly fee for your web hosting and perhaps even a monthly maintenance fee to your designer so the site stays in good condition.
Web designers and agencies come into their own when it comes to more complex websites, such as large e-commerce websites and complex, bespoke projects.
Overall, hiring a web designer is likely to cost you much more than using a website builder. If you do need a designer for your project, don’t forget to ask for multiple quotes before agreeing on a price. And bear in mind that sometimes a low price can be too good to be true.
How much does it cost to make a website with a Website Builder?
Website builders are an excellent option if you don’t have a large budget and want complete control over your site, starting at around RM50 per month.
GoDaddy’s Website Builder includes an intuitive drag-and-drop interface, making it easy to build your own site without having to pay for a designer.
Recent advances in technology mean that website builders are now suitable for all but the largest of websites. If you’re looking to build a basic website, a hospitality sector website, or even a small e-commerce website, then you should consider using a website builder tool.
Prices for GoDaddy’s Website Builder start at just RM22.99 per month, and since this price includes web hosting, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a cheaper option. Another advantage is that you won’t need to contact your web designer whenever you want to make a change to your site.
Additionally, website builder tools often come with a host of extra online marketing features to help promote your website.
Related: Follow these steps to make a free website
How much does a WordPress website cost?
If you want more control over your website builder, WordPress hosting is an excellent option, beginning at RM24.99 per month.
WordPress is a powerful, flexible, and user-friendly platform for building websites. It's suitable for businesses and individuals alike, offering an array of customisation options to create unique and functional sites.
One of the main benefits of WordPress is that it doesn't require coding knowledge, making it accessible to beginners. It even provides extensions and plugins that allow for advanced customisations if needed. The vast WordPress community offers countless themes and plugins, both free and premium, which can greatly enhance your website's functionality and appearance.
WordPress is also scalable, which means that the website can easily grow along with a business or personal project.
Website costs by business type
The cost of a website is largely determined by the required functionality. Factors include e-commerce capabilities, the number of pages, and the types of content used, such as videos, podcasts, and image galleries.
Refer to the table below for a general pricing overview based on business type.
| Business type | With a web designer | With GoDaddy's Website Builder | With WordPress |
| Small business website | RM3,019.20 | RM395.88 | RM515.88 |
| Small to medium e-commerce site | RM23,587.50 | RM599.88 | RM719.88 |
| Large-scale e-commerce site | RM40,000+ | RM839.88 | RM959.88 |
| Large bespoke business site | RM70,000+ | RM839.88 | RM959.88 |
Small business website cost
Small businesses in Malaysia can expect to pay between RM680 and RM3,020 annually to create and maintain a website. These businesses typically do not require a site with hundreds of pages.
A few core pages with information about your services, your background, customer testimonials, and contact details will suffice. You may also want to include a few additional features, such as a blog or links to your social media accounts, but nothing too elaborate.
This type of small business website is well-suited for tradesmen, freelancers, and other professionals who aim to generate leads from their site rather than attract walk-in customers.
A small business website is also ideal for those running a café, restaurant, bar, or similar business. Unlike service-based businesses, these establishments have different priorities, such as informing customers about their offerings and locations.
Including features like a menu page, photos, customer comments and reviews, a map with directions, and a contact or booking form will be your top priorities. Additionally, you might want a blog or news section to keep your customers updated about events and special offers.
Small to medium e-commerce site cost
The average cost to build a small to medium e-commerce website ranges between RM1,080 and RM23,500 if you want to have a website built for you. It’s definitely going to be more expensive than a regular site given the types of content modules unique to e-commerce sites that have to be designed and created.
For instance, homepages of e-commerce sites tend to not only have written content but also banner modules and product listings. Designers will need to consider the aesthetics of these as well on top of where to place standard written content.
This is an important consideration if you have an existing real-world business that sells products and you’re looking to branch out online, or if you’re setting up a dedicated e-commerce business.
Either way, the main focus of your website will be on the products you sell. You’ll also need supporting content, such as contact details, a returns policy, a blog, support pages, and anything else that fits with your business. If you’re also running a physical business, you’ll want to include a map and directions too.
Related: Biggest e-commerce challenges in Asia
Large-scale e-commerce site cost
If you’re planning to launch the next big online platform, you’ll need a comprehensive, custom-built website, and the costs will reflect that ambition. Expect to pay more than RM70,000 in the first year for a large, bespoke website.
You’ll undoubtedly need to hire a web designer, and you might even need to employ one or more on a full-time basis.
Notes on pricing: Web designer costs are approximate and can vary widely (be sure to shop around!). Web hosting, SSL, and domain name prices are also approximate and do not account for any special offers that may be available.
Prices for Website Builder and WordPress are correct at the time of writing but may also be subject to offers. The total cost of creating your website includes the web design fee (if applicable), one year of hosting, SSL certificate, and domain name registration.
Large bespoke business website cost
If you’re planning to launch the next big online platform, you’ll need a comprehensive, custom-built website, and the costs will reflect that ambition. Expect to pay more than RM70,000 in the first year for a large, bespoke website. You’ll undoubtedly need to hire a web designer, and you might even need to employ one or more on a full-time basis.
See how you can get a free domain with GoDaddy’s Web Design plans.
Notes on pricing: Web designer costs are approximate and can vary widely (be sure to shop around!). Web hosting, SSL, and domain name prices are also approximate and do not account for any special offers that may be available.
Prices for Website Builder and WordPress are correct at the time of writing but may also be subject to offers. The total cost of creating your website includes the web design fee (if applicable), one year of hosting, SSL certificate, and domain name registration.
So, how much does creating and owning a site cost in Malaysia?
Creating a website doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated. Modern website builders have made it accessible for the average small business owner to create and manage their own site with ease.
These tools are user-friendly and cost-effective, catering to a range of needs from basic informational sites to small-scale e-commerce platforms. However, it's important to remember that adding extra functionality—such as advanced e-commerce features, custom design elements, or interactive content—will typically increase your overall costs.
Whether you opt for a DIY approach or hire a professional web designer, understanding the costs involved and planning accordingly will ensure you get the most value from your investment.Interested in creating your own business website? Check out GoDaddy’s Website Builder for yourself!
Pricing is correct at the time of publishing and does not include any special promotions or discounts. Be sure to check current prices.
FAQ about website costs in Malaysia
1) Can you build a website for free?
Yes, it is technically possible for a business owner to build a website for free using various website-building platforms like WordPress.com, which offers free plans. However, these free plans come with limitations, such as subdomains (e.g., yourwebsite.wordpress.com), lack of customisation, limited storage, and the presence of ads on your website. While a free plan might suffice for a small or start-up business, as your business grows, upgrading to a paid hosting plan would be necessary to provide a more professional appearance and enhanced functionality.
2) How much does it cost to create a one-page website?
The cost of creating a one-page website can vary significantly based on factors such as the platform used, design complexity, additional functionalities, and whether a professional web developer is hired. Generally, you can expect to pay anywhere from RM2,200 to RM23,500 for a one-page website. There are ways to reduce costs, such as:
- Using a website builder
- Hiring a freelancer or small agency
- Doing some or all of the work yourself
3) Is it worth having a website for a small business?
Absolutely, having a website for a small business is highly recommended and offers several benefits:
- Accessibility: Potential customers can learn about your business, products, or services at any time, from anywhere.
- Credibility: A professional-looking website can enhance your business's reputation and instil trust in potential customers.
- Marketing: A website is a powerful marketing tool where you can promote your business widely and cost-effectively. It also allows for digital marketing strategies such as SEO, content marketing, and email marketing to attract more customers.
- Sales: With e-commerce functionality, a website can act as an additional sales channel, allowing customers to purchase directly from you 24/7.
- Customer Service: Improved customer service can be provided through a website by offering FAQ sections, chatbots, or forums where customers can get answers to their queries.
- Business Growth: A website helps you reach a wider audience, expand your customer base, and drive business growth.
Remember, your competitors are likely to have a web presence. A well-designed, user-friendly website can give your business a competitive edge.
4) How much does it cost to run a website for 1 year?
The cost of running a website for one year varies widely, depending on several elements such as hosting, domain registration, maintenance, and additional features. Depending on your business's needs, maintaining a website can cost anywhere from RM800 per year to thousands of ringgit.
5) Who should own a website in Malaysia?
Anyone looking to make money in Malaysia, from small business owners to freelancers, should set up a website. A website serves as a crucial platform to reach a wider audience and establish credibility. Additionally, incorporating blogging in Malaysia can drive traffic, improve search engine rankings, and provide valuable content to potential customers. Whether you are selling products, offering services, or sharing expertise, a well-designed website can significantly enhance your business's online presence and profitability.
*AI-assisted full website including all of the premium features like online store, appointment scheduling, and marketplace selling to name a few, requires paid subscription.
Editor's Note: This article contains content written by Stacey Hartman.
