Popular streaming service Netflix just got a lot more pricey for Malaysians. Netflix has adjusted its plans for the Malaysian market across the board. The adjustment comes nearly a year after the increase of subscription prices in the U.S..
In Malaysia, the prices are increasing by about 10% across the board. The Mobile only plan will now set you back RM18.90 which is an RM1.90 increase from the previous pricing of RM17.00. The same RM1.90 increase also applies to the Basic plan which was priced at RM28.00 and is now RM29.90. The Standard plan is now priced at RM49.90 which is an RM4.90 increase of its previous price of RM45. The Premium plan sees an increase of RM7.90 from RM55.00 to RM62.90.
This will be the second price adjustment for Netflix in Malaysia since its launch in 2016. The service revised its Standard plan price to RM28.00 in 2023. When the service launched, it introduced three plans at RM33.00 (Basic), RM41.00 (Standard) and RM51.00 (Premium). In 2019, the Mobile plan was introduced for RM17.00.
What Happens to My Subscription?
With the revision of the prices, there have been many users second guessing their decisions to subscribe to Netflix. However, it’s worth noting that if you are subscribed to Netflix directly, the service has indicated that any changes in pricing will be communicated in black and white through email a month before it goes into effect. At the time of writing, none of the writers and editors at techENT or their peers have received the email.
However, it seems like those who are already subscribed to bundles from Astro and Unifi TV will be seeing an increase in their prices in due time. Astro has confirmed that existing subscribers will not see a change in their subscription pricing until March 2025. There is no official word from Unifi TV yet. However, it has been reported that prices will be changing as of 21 November 2024. New subscribers regardless of how they are subscribed will be paying the newly adjusted prices.
There’s good news for those subscribed to Netflix with an extra member slot, you will continue to enjoy your plans at RM13.
Why is Netflix Increasing Its Prices?
Netflix has not officially commented on the price increase. However, according to their FAQ, the service regularly revises its pricing to adjust to current market conditions and address taxes which may be levied by local governments. This means that the company is adjusting to address inflation among other market realities including exchange rates.
However, it is more likely that Netflix is increasing their prices to address the increasing cost of maintaining their servers and also production costs for their original slate of programming. In Malaysia and Asia at large, this slate has expanded significantly since Netflix started out.
It’s also worth noting that Netflix pays licensing fees for shows on its service. Increase in these fees over the past few years and the rise in the number of competitors both internationally and locally will drive up pricing as marketing and licensing fees increase.
So, will you be continuing your subscription to Netflix? Let us know in the comments below!
