What is it like to retire in Malaysia?
We asked retirees what it is like retiring in Malaysia. They said...
"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 another expat 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 member in Kuching, Malaysia.
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Other Questions:
- What should I pack when moving to Malaysia?
- Where should I setup a bank account in Malaysia?
- Will I be able to find a job in Malaysia?
- What is life like in Malaysia?
- What do expats in Malaysia appreciate most about the local culture?
- What do expats find most challenging?
- Is there a lot of crime in Malaysia?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Malaysia accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in Malaysia like?
- What are healthcare services like in Malaysia?
- What are medical services in Malaysia like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Malaysia?
- What are emergency services like in Malaysia?
- Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
- Are common prescription medications available in Malaysia?
- How are local medical facilities in Malaysia?
- As a foreigner living in Malaysia, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
- What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?
What is it like to retire in Malaysia?
If you live in Malaysia, newcomers to Malaysia would love to hear your answer to this question.
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.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.