Pros and Cons of Living in Malaysia

Last updated on Feb 18, 2023

Summary: The pros of living in Malaysia are that it is a culturally diverse country with a rich history, a tropical climate, and a wide variety of activities and attractions to explore. The cost of living is relatively low, and the country is well-connected with excellent transportation links. Additionally, the healthcare system is well-developed and the education system is highly regarded. The cons of living in Malaysia are that the air quality can be poor in some areas, and the country is prone to natural disasters such as floods and earthquakes. Additionally, the crime rate is higher than in some other countries, and the political system is not as stable as in some other countries.

What are the pros and cons of living in Malaysia?

Expats, digital nomads and retirees living in Malaysia responded:

"Expats and digital nomads enjoy living in Malaysia because of its affordable cost of living, vibrant culture, and rich natural beauty. Many also like its tropical climate and wide variety of delicious local dishes. A downside for some expats and digital nomads living in Malaysia is the extremely humid weather, language barrier, and sometimes inconsistent infrastructure. Nevertheless, these aspects don't seem to deter the countless new expats and digital nomads that continue to move to Malaysia each year," explained one expat living in Malaysia.

"There are multiple racial cultures, very positive experience regarding diverse life styles: customs, foods, religious expressions," said one expat in living in Penang, Malaysia.

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What do expats in Malaysia appreciate most about the local culture?

"Friendliness, kindness, neighbors often help neighbors when you are sick, or sad. They will cook and bring you food. So kind and loving! We do the same for our neighbors," remarked one expat in Seremban 2.

"The opportunity to travel, to earn more money and give my children different opportunities," explained one expat living in Kuala Lumpur.

What do expats find most challenging?

"Driving here is tough because a person has to worry about other drivers using half on your lane, not signaling and the motorcycles. Smallest road are full holes that can easily damage the tires. I came from Minnesota so the hot weather needs getting use to," said a person living in Malaysia.

"Well, I only speak English. Fortunately, my wife speaks Tamil, Malay, English, and a few other languages. So she is tremendously helpful in every way," explained one expat living in Seremban 2.

About the Author

Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.