Expat Advice: Financial Issues in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

What is the name of the city or town that you are reporting on?

Kuala Lumpur

Which banks do you use? If you have a local account, which bank do you use? How do you like it? Do you also have an account in your home country? Which bank? Do they charge for ATM withdrawals? Do they charge a lot for international wire transfers? How has it been working with them from abroad? Do you use a special international wire transfer service? Do you use an online bank? If so, tell us about them.

No, I already banked with them in UK, so they were the obvious choice.

William Russell
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William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.

William Russell

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
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What advice would you offer others about banking as an expat in your country? What do you wish you had known about banking when you first arrived?

As an expat it is essential to choose a bank which has a truly global presence, with local expertise. That way you have a far better chance of ensuring that your needs are met, for both local and overseas transactions. This is especially true for incoming electronic transfers (TT and e-based).

Do you do your own taxes, use a local firm, an expat-oriented firm or does your employer handle this for you (i.e. via an corporate tax firm)?

I have my own company so my local accountant handles (very efficiently).

What advice could you offer others about doing your taxes as an expat?

Choose an accountant who other expats also use and trust.