What’s Right for Your Business?
If you’re running a small or medium-sized business in Malaysia and thinking of getting a website, you’ve probably asked this question:
“Do I need a custom website, or can I just use a template?”
The short answer? It depends.
This guide will walk you through the pros, cons, and what actually matters — so you don’t overpay or get stuck with something that doesn’t fit your needs.
What’s a Template Website?
A template website uses a ready-made design layout. You just add your logo, text, images, and you’re good to go.
Think of it like buying a nice suit off the rack — it fits, looks good, and saves you time and money.
Perfect for:
- Startups
- Side businesses
- Local services (e.g., bakery, hair salon, home repair)
✅ Pros:
- Fast to launch (sometimes within a week)
- Budget-friendly
- Plenty of professional designs available
- Mobile-ready and beginner-friendly
❌ Cons:
- Limited flexibility (you’re locked into a layout)
- May look similar to other websites using the same template
- Difficult to add custom features later
What’s a Custom Website?
A custom website is designed from scratch to suit your exact needs. Everything — from the layout to the features — is built around your business.
Think of it like getting a tailor-made outfit. It takes longer, costs more, but fits like a glove.
Perfect for:
- Growing or established businesses
- Brands that want a unique identity
- Websites with booking, forms, e-commerce, or multilingual features
✅ Pros:
- 100% original design, made for your brand
- Scalable and flexible
- Easier to stand out in a competitive market
❌ Cons:
- Higher cost to build and maintain
- Takes longer to build (1–2 months or more)
- Requires more input from you during the process
Which One Should You Choose?
Here’s a quick comparison to help you decide:
| If You… | Go With… |
|---|---|
| Just need to get online quickly | Template Website |
| Want to keep costs low for now | Template Website |
| Need a unique design or complex features | Custom Website |
| Want to scale your business later | Custom Website |
Pro Tip: Most SMEs in Malaysia start with a template site, then upgrade to a custom website as their business grows.
Can I Upgrade from Template to Custom Later?
Yes — and it’s a smart move.
At Solbright, we help clients start simple and upgrade smart. Once your business grows or your needs change, we can redesign your site without starting from zero.
You’re never locked in.
How Does This Affect SEO and AI Search?
Here’s where it gets interesting: template or custom — both can perform well on Google and AI-powered search (like ChatGPT or Google Gemini) — if the website is well-structured and optimized.
That’s why we always include SEO best practices in every package, whether template-based or custom-built.
Final Thoughts
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The best choice is the one that:
- Fits your budget now
- Meets your business goals
- Can grow with you over time
The most important thing is having a proper website — one that you own, control, and can build on.
Ready to Get Your Business Online?
Solbright offers affordable website design and maintenance services from RM788 for Malaysian small and medium businesses. Whether you’re starting from scratch or upgrading from social media, we make it simple and stress-free.
Explore our website packages and reach out to us now!
