Retire in Malaysia

"Retirement in Malaysia is an attractive option for many, as it is home to a bustling expat community and offers a variety of cultural and recreational activities. There are numerous beaches and other recreational activities available around the country, ranging from night markets to indoor skydiving and deep sea fishing. Furthermore, Malaysia's vibrant nightlife with its traditional pubs, lounges and nightclubs, is one of the region's biggest attractions. Many retirees are able to enjoy the country's culture, with its many temples, mosques, and Chinese and Indian cultural centers. Additionally, Malaysia has a number of golf courses, parks, and even its own theme park, Sunway Lagoon. Malaysia is a country with much to offer for performance-oriented retirees," remarked one retiree in Malaysia.

"Kuching is a very laid-back city. There are lots of National Parks with forests, caving, waterfalls, hiking, water sports (kayaking), wildlife and small villages and longhouses within an hour or two of town. There is golf, jogging/running, pilates, yoga, etc. Several Cultural Festivals (Gawai as well as the religious ones) and massive Music Festivals like the Rainforest World Music Festival, Miri and Waterfront Jazz Festivals, the Seniawan Country Music Festival, etc. Just noticed that some EMF are happening too. Nightlife sadly is meagre compared to Bali or Bangkok and there is virtually no sex-tourism or beach rave scene. There are a handful of expat-oriented clubs/bars (most shutting during the covid period) but check out Carpenter Street and Jl. Tabuan. Lots of restaurants with a wide range of international cuisines...eating seems to be the main vice of Sarawakians. The expat community is small...most people have a mix of expat and local friends (Sarawakians are a friendly sort). There is a nascent Facebook group (Kuching Expats)," said a retiree who moved to Kuching, Malaysia.

"Penang Island is great place with lots to do. One of the British most important colony 150 years ago. Third in importance to Hong Kong & Singapore, so lot's of culture from the west and the melting pot of SE.. Some of the best food in the world. I'm not into nightlife but plenty of places if you are. The only real negative was the beaches they are not on the same level as most of SE," said one retiree in Tojong Tokong, Penang Island.

"Penang is a wonderful place. A large small town I call it. English is widely spoken, people are friendly, many cultural attractions and events. There is a large expat community here. Although we do not live amongst expats," commented one retiree living in Penang, Malaysia.