Living in Malaysia

"Brace for the heat. Being in the Klang Valley, it means lots of heat and humidity level is very high. Showers and heavy rainfalls are also common. Tap water is not drinkable so one must be prepared with a kettle or other 'water producing' machines e.g distiller Getting around is fairly easy, cabs are a plenty and very cheap compared to most other countries. Public buses do not service a lot of areas. A car is an absolute must if you have kids. The weather just does not permit much walking between 11 am to 4 p.m," said one expat who made the move to Petaling Jaya.

"Before retiring in Malaysia, expats need to be aware that the cost of living is low compared to many other countries, although housing and medical care costs can be higher. Expats should research their healthcare options before they arrive, and ensure they have access to any necessary prescriptions. It is also important to be aware of local laws and regulations, and to ensure all documents required for residency or a retirement visa are in order before travelling. Local language skills are not essential, but can be helpful to have. Additionally, expats may want to become familiar with the local customs and culture to ensure they fit in well with their new neighbors," explained one expat living in Malaysia.

"Expats living in Malaysia often join local clubs and activities such as expat Meetups, sports teams, and language classes. Expats can also meet people through local venues such as pubs, cafes, co-working spaces, or religious organizations. Additionally, they may find other expats or locals interested in similar activities by attending community events, joining online forums, or joining local social networks," commented one expat who made the move to Malaysia.

"Private clubs like Hyatt Saujana, Tropicana and Bukit Kiara are great for expats with families and young children. They are affordable too. Bukit Kiara has an equestarian club for kids and adults," remarked one expat living in Petaling Jaya, Malaysia.

"Expatriates and digital nomads in Malaysia enjoy an exciting and vibrant lifestyle. The country is filled with diverse cultures, religions, and attractions, offering plenty of opportunities to experience something new. Malaysians also tend to be incredibly friendly and welcoming, making it easy to make new friends. Expats and digital nomads can get around the country easily with its well-maintained transportation network, allowing them to explore and take in the sights. The cost of living is also relatively affordable, meaning expats and digital nomads can enjoy life here without breaking the bank. With its pleasant climate and beautiful scenery, Malaysia is the perfect destination for expats and digital nomads looking for a unique and fulfilling lifestyle," said one expat who made the move to Malaysia.

"Petaling Jaya, unlike the neighbouring Kuala Lumpur is more residential but a lot of multi nationals are located in this town as well. Lots of families prefer shopping in the weekends. And going out for food! Lots of food and the range is very diversified and international," explained one expat living in Petaling Jaya, Malaysia.

"Sarawak is almost Mayberry R.F.D. It's got one of the lowest per capita crime rates of any Malaysian state (which averages low). Crime is centered on financial scams (on-line and phone), illegal gambling, loan-sharking, illegal immigration and to some degree drug abuse. These are things that don't particularly affect expats. Family/domestic violence is the main violent crime. That doesn't mean auto-theft, purse snatching and burglary is non-existent, but condos generally have gates and guards. Home owners do get dogs and alarm systems," wrote one member in Kuching.

"No. We feel safe walking around day and night. With that said, we don't go out to bars in town at night or hang out in places like that," remarked one expat who made the move to Penang.

"Yes, there is a lot of diversity in Malaysia. People of diverse backgrounds, religions, races, and cultures reside in Malaysia, creating a vibrant and unique cultural landscape. Acceptance of differences is generally high in Malaysia, making it a safe place for people to express different identities. There is even a national policy that seeks to promote racial harmony and social cohesion across the country," commented one expat who made the move to Malaysia.

"Very multi racial and people seem to have no problems living next door to each other in spite of racial or religious preferences. In fact, all major religious festivals are public holidays and everyone celebrates," remarked one expat living in Petaling Jaya, Malaysia.

"Don't waist your money. The directors pocket it all. Go see for yourself. Wear a construction helmet in case the roof caves in on your head," remarked one expat living in Ampang with children attending Mutiara International School.

"Its a great school ! However please read this carefully. This school follows the International Primary Curicullum in the early years. Many dont know what this means and think its the same as normal british cambridge cirriculum and assume that since its "international" it will prepare the child for the "international" life. If your child comes from an A level,American, Singaporean, Korean, Indian or Asian curicullum you would be shocked with the standards. This system is not intensive with homeworks. There arent many texts books. Your child's school bag will be filling with any thing but books. There isnt much writting be it in school or homework at home. There is a lot of learning through play and developing an interest to learning rather then the intensive "learn by heart and repeat like parrot" asian system. Which is all fine if you plan to keep your child in this school from nursery to grade 10. However if you are an expat and would have to move to another country and shift your child after couple of years your child will be in for a very tough change. Many parents of ISP students have enrolled their children in extra classes outside the school for the child to be on the same level as other education system. This is especially for math. A common concern of most expat (especially Asian ) parents is that the school doesnt make their child write enough in the early years, maths is quite elementary (no enough homework given) . The school is addressing this to a certain extent by dividing the children into groups of kids with good math skills and the rest. The ones with good math skills are exposed to a bit higher level math vs the rest. English too is taught in a fun way which is great. But English grammer isnt taught the way it is other systems. Its not at all intensive as you would experience in other systems. With an excellent library and online books through a personalised login for each child via the "bugclub" website, would credit the school for creating a passion in the child towards reading. Great ! but if you have to move your child after 2 years to another system in another country, your child may not be able to clear the entrance test of that school and may have to repeat a year. This is a big concern for many parents. As all international schools in Malaysia charge a huge "non refundable deposit", many are stuck with the school as a change of school would mean paying the "non refundable deposit" again for another school which the expat's company wouldnt cover twice. So please read carefully about "International Primary Curriculum" . It is not the normal Cambridge education ( which for Asians is lower in standard as compared to Asian curriculum. ) This is even lower then that. Great School ! Great Teachers ! Great extra curricular activities ! Great facilities ! but be fully aware what you are going in for as changing to another system in the later years would be difficult for your child," said one expat in Kuala Lumpur with children at International School @ Desa Park City.

"If you are prepared for having your child taught by teachers who are not really as good as they think they are - who have no idea about extension (except the british teachers who number 4). if you are prepared for islamic pupils to be given religious instruction and no other religion - if Christian pupils are not allowed their own opportunities for learning - an islamic camp but no Christian camp. if you want to have the best headmaster we have ever known, but know he is wasted here and will move on - facilities and health and safety issues which are poor - owners who ponce around and run a school that has no real educational insight - who have got through 4 principals in 10 years, and we know Mr Shere is too good to wish to continue putting up with the rubbish he has to contend with (dinosaur teachers with not an ounce of proactive professionalism)then send your child here. otherwise if you can afford it send them to a REAL international school that aims to compete with similar schools by putting money where it matters, and not the owners' pockets," remarked one parent with kids at Mutiara International Grammar School in Kuala Lumpur.

"I would suggest that if parents want their children to go to an international school, they should send them to a large, well-established school with an excellent reputation. I would avoid local schools with international departments until they were well-established, with a proven track record. Alternatively, I would suggest considering homeschooling which enables parents to closely monitor their child's learning and builds trust and communication within the family," explained one expat living in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

"Hua Chong International School (HCIS) is one of the most highly regarded international schools in Malaysia. Established in 1978, HCIS is located in the heart of Kuala Lumpur and provides students with an educational experience based on the Primary Years Programme (PYP) of the International Baccalaureate (IB). Students enjoy a world-class education at HCIS, learning the traditional Chinese language, along with English and Malay; a variety of courses in arts, music, and cultures; and a Global Perspectives program that prepares students for university study abroad. The Garden International School (GIS) is another highly regarded international school in Malaysia. Located in the bustling metropolis of Kuala Lumpur, GIS offers its students an education based on the English National Curriculum. Students enjoy a second language program in Mandarin, as well as extracurricular activities such as horse riding, sports, music, and club activities. The school also offers its students a range of support services including counseling, library services, and health care. Kulua Lumpur Japanese School is one of Malaysia’s most respected bilingual schools. Established in 1963, it provides a high-quality education in both the Japanese and English languages. Specialized courses in business, economics, and IT are offered to students alongside the traditional core subjects like math and science. The school also provides its students with a wide range of special courses such as taiko drum performance, calligraphy, and traditional tea ceremony," said one parent with children at in .

"In Penang you can easily live for under $800. Our budget was over that but 1/5 the cost of living in Newport Beach, Ca or Maui and a better lifestyle," said one expat who made the move to Tojong Tokong, Penang Island.

"It costs me about 1/4 of what it does in the USA to live comfortably in Seremban, Malaysia. You can buy a small decent Myvi car for 50,000 ringgits $12,000 US. Electricity costs about $200 rm / $50us a month. Sewage and water are super inexpensive. Once a year I pay a car tax. A Japanese car Honda/Toyota costs about the same as in the US. A 1500 sf house with a small land might cost $800,000 rm / $200,000 US. An attached house is much less. Most "attached" townhouse designs are without much land, except room to park 2 cars in front of the house. I spend less than 1000 rm / $250us a month on groceries. Gas is cheaper than the US. If you have $5000 us income, you can easily afford a maid ($1000+ rm month)," mentioned one expat inSeremban.

"In Malaysia, residents enjoy a variety of recreational facilities, such as public parks, beaches, and water parks. There are also many sports facilities, such as golf courses, tennis courts, and swimming pools. For those who enjoy the outdoors, there are plenty of hiking trails, camping sites, and nature reserves. For those who prefer indoor activities, there are bowling alleys, arcades, and movie theaters. Shopping malls, museums, and art galleries are also popular recreational facilities in Malaysia," commented one expat who moved to Malaysia.

"Swimming at every condominium. Squash and tennis courts. Hiking around Kuala Lumpur," said one expat.

"The weather in Malaysia is generally hot and humid throughout the year. The temperature is usually around 30 degrees Celsius during the day and can drop to around 20 degrees Celsius at night. The rainy season usually starts in October and ends in March, with the heaviest rainfall occurring in November and December. The east coast of Malaysia experiences more rainfall than the west coast," commented one expat who moved to Malaysia.

"One of the most popular restaurants in Malaysia is Nasi Kandar Pelita. Located in Penang, this restaurant serves up a variety of traditional Malaysian dishes, including nasi lemak, roti canai, and ayam goreng. The restaurant is known for its generous portions and flavorful curries. Customers can also enjoy a variety of side dishes, such as fried fish, prawns, and vegetables. Another popular restaurant in Malaysia is Restoran Ikan Bakar Pak Ali. Located in Kuala Lumpur, this restaurant specializes in grilled fish dishes. Customers can choose from a variety of fish, including mackerel, snapper, and barramundi. The restaurant also serves up a variety of side dishes, such as sambal, pickles, and salads. Finally, Restoran Yut Kee is a popular restaurant in Kuala Lumpur. This restaurant has been around since 1928 and is known for its traditional Hainanese dishes. Customers can enjoy a variety of dishes, such as chicken chop, pork chop, and beef rendang. The restaurant also serves up a variety of desserts, such as ice kacang and cendol," wrote one expat living in Malaysia.

"Restaurants: any kind Nightlife: luxurious rooftop bars, or bar streets (Changkat, Bangsar)," commented one expat who moved to Kuala Lumpur.

"People living in Malaysia typically buy groceries from supermarkets, wet markets, and convenience stores. Other shopping can be done at shopping malls, department stores, and specialty stores. Online shopping is also becoming increasingly popular in Malaysia," mentioned an expat living in Malaysia.

"In order to visit or stay in Malaysia, visitors must apply for a visa. Depending on the purpose of their stay, there are various types of visas available, including short-term visit passes, tourist visas, student visas, and professional visas. Applicants must submit their passport for the visa application, along with the required documents and fees. Residency in Malaysia requires an Employment Pass or an approved Long-Term Visit Pass. To obtain an Employment Pass, the applicant must provide proof of employment as well as personal documents and supporting documents from the employer. If they are granted an Employment Pass, they can apply for their work permit and permanent residence. For a Long-Term Visit Pass, applicants must provide proof of banking transactions, documents attesting to their financial capability, and a return ticket, among other documents. They must also demonstrate that the reason for their stay is legitimate. Holding a Long-Term Visit Pass does not provide the right to work in Malaysia," mentioned one expat inMalaysia.

"Work visa, business visa, student visa, or MM2H are long-term options. The easiest one is a student visa," commented one expat who moved to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

"Local health insurance is available to people under age 60. We have personal health insurance with a company specialising in international benefits. We pay for the procedures locally and submit electronic claims forms that are processed and pay according to US. standards. We chose this provider based on market research and an organization with which we are affiliated," mentioned one expat inGeorgetown.

"Healthcare and health insurance in Malaysia can be expensive, depending on the type of coverage and services required. Private healthcare is generally more expensive than public healthcare, and health insurance premiums can vary depending on the type of coverage and the provider. Generally, health insurance premiums are higher for those who are older or have pre-existing medical conditions. Additionally, some health insurance plans may require additional fees for certain services, such as hospitalization or specialist care," commented one expat who moved to Malaysia.