12 Tips for Living in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

By svitlanakl

An expat in Kuala Lumpur talks about the cost of living there, international schools, visas, restaurants and much more.

Expat Life in Kuala Lumpur

Multi-cultural city, low living costs, ability to travel to other SEA countries.

Cost of Living in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Quite cheap. Renting a loft in Cheras will cost RM1,300-1,500 More expensive options in the city center will be more like RM2,500 Food shopping is around RM200 a week (for 2 people)

Local Clubs and Organizations

There are quite a few Facebook and WhatsApp groups where it's easy to find any information expat needs.

International Schools in Kuala Lumpur

UCSI International Schools in Springhill, Subang Jaya and Cheras (great facilities, 70% of teachers are expats, coding, robotics and design classes), Fairview and Nexus

Shopping in Kuala Lumpur

A lot of mega-malls, shopping centers, day and night markets.

Public Transportation

Trains (MRT, LRT, KTM), buses (not so frequent), ride hailing APPs (Grab is the best one).

Climate

Tropical with monsoons.

Restaurants and Nightlife

Restaurants: any kind Nightlife: luxurious rooftop bars, or bar streets (Changkat, Bangsar).

What are local hospitals and emergency services like?

There are private hospitals, which work better for foreigners. Quite a few around Kuala Lumpur.

Recreational Activities in Kuala Lumpur

Swimming at every condominium. Squash and tennis courts. Hiking around Kuala Lumpur.

Residency and Visa Requirements

Work visa, business visa, student visa, or MM2H are long-term options. The easiest one is a student visa.

Crime in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Bag snatchers on motorbikes.