There is a widespread misconception that website design prices in Malaysia are exorbitant. This belief often leads Malaysian businesses to opt for low-quality and cheap web designers. However, these businesses end up disappointed as they expect results similar to their competitors who have invested significantly more in their websites.
So, what is the actual cost of creating a website in Malaysia? In this article, we will delve into the various components and variables that determine the price of a website. We will also compare the differences between a cheap website and a fully customized one.
Components of Website Design Pricing in Malaysia
Domains:
A domain name is the address of your website, such as facebook.com or google.com. While domains are not directly related to website design prices in Malaysia, they are an essential cost for owning a website. The average cost of domains in Malaysia ranges from RM60 to RM120+ per year, depending on the domain type.
Website Hosting:
Website hosting is the service that allows you to publish your website files on the internet. The quality of your website host is a significant factor in determining website speed. Shared hosting is usually sufficient for most websites, but larger and more popular websites may require dedicated hosting or cloud hosting. The average price for website hosting in Malaysia can range from RM200 to RM2,900 per year, depending on the package and your website’s specific needs.
Web Pages:
The number of pages you need to design is a significant component in determining the average cost of web design in Malaysia. A larger website with more pages is necessary to target multiple keywords for better search engine optimization (SEO) and attract higher traffic volume. The price per web page in Malaysia ranges from RM200 to RM800+ per page. On average, a 12-page website in Malaysia would cost around RM3,600 to RM12,000, depending on the desired quality and complexity.
Design Complexity:
A complex design refers to a type of design that is challenging to replicate and requires a longer time to complete due to the significant amount of code involved. These complex websites typically incorporate a variety of advanced animations, effects, sophisticated navigation, and overlapping elements. The complexity of the design directly influences the cost of website development in Malaysia.
In Malaysia, template web design and custom web design have different price ranges. Template web design generally falls between RM2,000 and RM6,000, while custom web design can range from RM8,000 to RM100,000.
For a basic template-based web design in Malaysia, the typical price range is around RM2,200 to RM12,000 or higher.
On the other hand, a fully customized website design, tailored to specific requirements, can cost anywhere from RM8,000 to RM100,000.
It’s important to consider the level of complexity and customization desired when determining the appropriate design option and associated cost for website development in Malaysia. Consulting with professional web developers or agencies can provide further guidance and accurate cost estimates based on individual project needs.
1. E-commerce Website Pricing:
When it comes to the cost of website design in Malaysia for an e-commerce store and payment gateway integration, it’s important to consider the average prices in 2022. While some e-commerce platforms like WooCommerce are free to use, web designers often include the setup cost as part of their services.
WooCommerce is widely regarded as one of the most popular and flexible e-commerce platforms in Malaysia, offering scalability and customization options. The average price for website design in Malaysia, specifically for an e-commerce website, typically starts at RM4,000.
Additionally, to facilitate payment processing through your website, you will need to integrate a payment gateway.
In Malaysia, there are several certified payment gateways available, such as iPay88. The cost of these payment gateways can range from RM300 per year and upwards. It’s worth noting that the specific pricing for e-commerce website design and payment gateway integration may vary depending on your unique requirements and the additional features you wish to incorporate.
To determine the most accurate and tailored pricing information for your e-commerce project, it is recommended to consult with professional web designers or agencies in Malaysia who can provide detailed cost estimates based on your specific needs.
2. Copywriting Services:
In addition to the layout and template design of your website, the task of writing content is often not included in a web designer’s responsibilities. Consequently, you may need to allocate an additional budget for copywriting services, depending on your designer.
When determining the cost of copywriting for your website in Malaysia, it’s essential to consider the average pricing. The average website design price inclusive of copywriting typically ranges from RM400 to RM700. If you decide to hire an external copywriter in Malaysia, the average cost per word ranges from RM0.30 to RM0.50 or more.
Considering that the average web page consists of approximately 400 words, you can estimate a total cost of RM1,440 to RM2,400 for specialized copywriting services for a 12-page website in Malaysia. Fortunately, many web designers offer copywriting services as well, usually charging a comparatively lower fee. It is common to expect fees ranging from RM500 to RM1,000 for copywriting services.
It’s important to discuss your specific content requirements and obtain accurate pricing estimates from your web designer or copywriter in order to align the costs with your budget and expectations.
3. Search Engine Optimization (SEO):
Search Engine Optimization (SEO) is essential for driving traffic to your website and improving its ranking on Google. The top 5 search results receive the majority of clicks, highlighting the importance of ranking high. SEO involves optimizing your website with technical, creative, and analytical strategies.
The average price for SEO services in Malaysia ranges from RM1,000 to RM10,000 per month. Given the competitiveness of search engine results pages, it’s crucial to enlist the help of an SEO specialist to maintain your website’s ranking.
By investing in SEO, you can increase visibility, attract organic traffic, and outperform competitors in search rankings.
4. Content Creation:
When it comes to creating content for your website, there are three common sources you can turn to:
- Stock Images: If you don’t have your own images, stock images are a popular choice. They can be obtained for free through Creative Commons License or purchased for around RM30+ per image in Malaysia. Some web design agencies may include a certain number of stock images in their pricing.
- Photographer: If you need to showcase your products or services accurately, it’s crucial to engage a photographer. They will capture and edit high-quality images specifically tailored for your website.
- Graphic Designer: In certain cases, you may prefer illustrations over traditional images to match the style of your website. Hiring a graphic designer will allow you to create custom icons, images, and illustrations that align with your website’s aesthetic.
Considering the importance of visual content in website design, it’s essential to budget accordingly for content creation services. Pricing for content creation in Malaysia varies based on the specific requirements and the professionals you choose to work with.
5. Custom Functionality in Website Design:
Custom functionality is an essential aspect of web design packages, including features like contact forms, embedded Google Maps, and e-commerce functionality.
The complexity and sophistication of the desired functions directly impact the website design Malaysia price.
Custom functionality options include live chat, social media integration, forums, shipment tracking, web apps, comparison platforms, and more.
The cost for a website with custom functionality in Malaysia can range from RM8,000 to RM100,000.
6. Website Maintenance Cost
Regular maintenance is crucial for keeping your website secure and up-to-date with plugins and themes. This involves the assistance of a webmaster a few times a year.
The average website design Malaysia price, including maintenance, ranges from RM100 to RM500+ per month, depending on whether you require website management services
Factors Affecting Website Design Malaysia Price
In addition to the components mentioned earlier, there are several factors that can influence the price of website design in Malaysia:
1. Complexity of Design:
The complexity of your website’s design will play a significant role in determining the cost. A simple and straightforward design will be more affordable, while a complex design with unique features, animations, and interactive elements will require more time and effort from the web designer, resulting in a higher price.
2. Customization Requirements:
If you have specific customization needs or unique features that go beyond standard templates or plugins, the cost of website design will increase. Custom functionalities and tailored solutions often require additional development work, which adds to the overall cost.
3. Project Scope:
The size and scope of your website project will impact the price. A small one-page or landing page design will be less expensive compared to a large multipage website or an extensive e-commerce platform with numerous product pages and advanced functionalities.
4. Content Creation:
Creating high-quality content for your website, including copywriting, images, and graphics, can add to the cost. If you require professional copywriting services or custom images, it may incur an additional fee.
5. SEO and Marketing Services:
If you want to optimize your website for search engines and improve its visibility, you may consider investing in SEO services. SEO involves various techniques and strategies to enhance your website’s ranking in search engine results, and it can be a separate service with its own pricing.
Comparing Cheap Websites to Fully Custom Websites
It’s important to note that opting for a cheap website design in Malaysia may not always provide you with the desired results. Cheap websites often come with limited functionality, generic templates, and a lack of customization options. They may not effectively represent your brand or meet your specific business needs.
On the other hand, fully custom websites offer a higher level of uniqueness, functionality, and tailored solutions. Custom websites can incorporate advanced features, custom designs, and interactive elements that align with your brand identity and business objectives. However, custom websites generally come at a higher price due to the extensive development and design work involved.
Choosing the Right Website Design Package
When deciding on a website design package in Malaysia, it’s crucial to consider your specific requirements, budget, and long-term goals. While a cheap website may seem appealing initially, it’s essential to evaluate the value it provides and the limitations it may have in terms of customization and functionality.
A standard website design package can be a suitable choice for small-to-medium-sized businesses that require a professional online presence without the need for complex customizations. These packages offer a balance between affordability and customization options.
If your business demands unique functionalities or a highly tailored design, a custom website design package may be more appropriate. Custom websites provide flexibility and the ability to create a website that truly stands out, but they come with a higher price tag.
Conclusion
The price of website design in Malaysia varies depending on multiple factors such as domain registration, website hosting, number of web pages, design complexity, e-commerce requirements, copywriting services, SEO, content creation, custom functionality, and ongoing maintenance.
It’s important to consider the components and variables that make up the cost and evaluate your business’s specific needs and goals when choosing a website design package. Remember, investing in a well-designed and functional website can have a significant impact on your online presence and business success in the long run.
If you’re unsure about where to start or need assistance, it’s advisable to consult with a reputable web design company like Wowonini. They can provide you with a custom quotation based on your requirements and guide you through the process of creating a website that meets your expectations.
