Maxis’s prepaid internet service operates under its Hotlink brand. Over time, Hotlink has evolved significantly, especially in response to rising demand for 5G and always-on data. Rather than just offering simple “pay-per-use” data, Hotlink now provides monthly internet passes that combine data, calls, and hotspot usage — giving prepaid users a more flexible and modern internet experience.
In January 2024, Hotlink made a huge move by upgrading all its prepaid passes to include 5G connectivity. This means that when a Hotlink customer buys a monthly pass, they can now benefit from 5G speeds (if their device and area support it), making the prepaid experience more competitive with postpaid plans.
Key Features of Hotlink Prepaid Passes
Hotlink’s prepaid internet offerings are centered around two main types of monthly passes: Unlimited and Pantas. With its Unlimited passes, users enjoy “unlimited” data at a capped speed. Importantly, these passes also support hotspot usage and calls. In its latest refresh, Hotlink increased the FUP (fair usage) thresholds for these passes. For example, the RM 50 Unlimited pass now includes a higher FUP quota.
The Pantas passes, on the other hand, deliver a set amount of data (at 4G/5G speeds) plus bonus 5G data for the same validity period. For example, the RM 35 Pantas pass now gives users more 4G/5G data plus additional 5G data than it used to.
Additional perks come into play for younger users: Hotlink offers a 20% cashback for users under 24 on each purchase of its monthly internet passes. These kinds of offers show that Maxis is positioning Hotlink prepaid not just for basic users, but also for the youth who rely heavily on data.
| Plan | Price (RM) | Data / Speed | Bonus 5G / Notes | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Unlimited | 55 | Unlimited high‑speed (new) | 200 GB FUP, shared hotspot, unlimited calls | 30 days |
| Unlimited | 50 | Unlimited, up to ~24 Mbps (4G / 5G) | 200 GB FUP, 5G uncapped 8 pm–8 am, hotspot, calls | 30 days |
| Unlimited | 40 | Unlimited, up to ~12 Mbps (4G / 5G) | 200 GB FUP, 5G uncapped 8 pm–8 am, hotspot, calls | 30 days |
| Pantas | 35 | 100 GB total (50 GB + 50 GB bonus) | Calls + hotspot | 30 days |
| Pantas | 25 | 60 GB total (30 GB + 30 GB bonus) | Calls + hotspot | 30 days |
How Hotlink Prepaid Plans Work in Daily Use
For someone using Hotlink prepaid, getting an internet pass is pretty straightforward. Using the Hotlink (MyMaxis) app, or via USSD or web, a user can choose and activate the pass they like. Once activated, the pass remains valid for a full 30 days. The “Unlimited” type means you don’t have to worry about running out of data, but speeds may slow down after a threshold defined by the FUP.
Because the Unlimited passes now support hotspot, users can tether their mobile data to laptops or other devices — a very practical feature, especially for students or freelancers who could use their phone data for their computer. Also, with 5G being available on these plans, users in 5G-covered areas can enjoy much faster speeds than traditional 4G, especially during off-peak times.
Strengths and Advantages of Maxis / Hotlink Prepaid
One of the biggest advantages of Hotlink’s prepaid internet plans is flexibility. Because you’re not locked into a long-term contract, you can adjust your plan every month depending on your data needs. This makes it ideal for people who don’t want to commit or who have variable data usage.
The inclusion of 5G on these passes is a major strength. Many prepaid users don’t have access to 5G via older plans, but Hotlink’s upgrade means you can now tap into higher speeds without going postpaid.
Another plus is the youth cashback. Users under 24 getting 20% cashback for monthly pass purchases is a very smart move, especially since younger people often consume lots of mobile data.
Finally, the pass structure (Unlimited vs Pantas) gives choice: some users care more about consistent data and hotspot usage, while others prioritize getting high-speed 4G/5G data in larger bursts. Hotlink’s model supports both use cases.
Challenges and Things to Watch Out For
Even though the prepaid internet plans are powerful, there are trade-offs to consider. With the Unlimited pass, “unlimited” doesn’t mean truly free-flowing, high-speed data — the FUP policy means that after a certain threshold, speeds may be reduced or prioritized. Users need to understand this so they don’t get frustrated when speeds drop.
Also, while 5G is offered, the experience will heavily depend on your location. If you live in an area where 5G coverage is weak or inconsistent, you might not get the full benefit of Hotlink’s 5G upgrade, especially during peak hours.
For some passes, especially Pantas, once you’ve used up your allocated 4G/5G data, accessing data again might require buying a new pass or booster — so if you underestimate your usage, you could end up paying more or having to manage top-ups carefully.
Another less obvious challenge is user behavior around auto-renewal or manual renewal: if you rely on prepaid credit, you must ensure you have enough balance when pass renewal is due, or else you could lose data or face service interruption.
Also Check: Digi Prepaid Internet Plans
Who Should Consider Maxis / Hotlink Prepaid Plans
Hotlink’s prepaid internet plans make a lot of sense for a number of different users. People who want an affordable, all‑month data plan but dislike the idea of a long-term contract will feel comfortable here. Those who use their phones for social media, streaming, or even light work would benefit from the Unlimited passes. For users who want occasional high-speed data, perhaps when traveling, downloading large files, or doing bursts of work the Pantas passes can be more efficient.
Young users who qualify for the cashback offer under 24 years old will especially appreciate the value Hotlink provides. Meanwhile, users who need a mobile hotspot for their laptop or tablet can use their unlimited data as tethering. And for anyone with a 5G-capable device in a 5G‑enabled area, the new passes mean they can take full advantage of faster speeds during off-peak times.
Final Thoughts
Maxis, through its Hotlink prepaid brand, has significantly upgraded its prepaid internet offerings. The shift to unlimited-style passes, plus the addition of real 5G access, shows how seriously Maxis is taking the modern data needs of its users. These plans are no longer just “cheap data for calls,” but a credible digital lifestyle option for students, data-hungry users, and those who want to stay flexible.
However, to get the most out of these plans, users should pay close attention to the pass type (Unlimited vs Pantas), the FUP rules, and whether their area actually enjoys good 5G coverage. These factors will determine whether a pass feels “unlimited enough” or whether it makes more sense to top up data more strategically.