Reasons to Choose Malaysia

This is a broad category, but it is the one with the most votes. People enjoy life here for many reasons, not just one. When Malaysia works for you, it tends to work across multiple areas at the same time.

This is no surprise given Malaysia’s mix of cultures. Chinese, Indian, and Malay dishes are excellent whether you eat at a hawker stall for a few ringgit or choose a more comfortable, upmarket restaurant. Many expats quickly adopt local foods, which are available for just a few dollars in some local outlets.

Malaysia is superbly located for travel. You have road links to Singapore in the south and Thailand in the north, plus short flights to Indonesia, Vietnam and the Philippines. Longer-haul destinations like Japan, India, and Australia are also within easy reach. Low-cost airlines make regional travel especially convenient.

In all the years I have been here, Malaysians have always ranked highly as an attraction. People are generally warm and friendly, and often ready to lend a hand if you are stuck or unsure. Yes, things can be a little laid back at times, but that same attitude also contributes to the relaxed lifestyle many expats appreciate.

Cost has always been a major attraction. Whether you are living sensibly on a modest budget or indulging in the finer things, Malaysia offers plenty of value. If you have the funds, you can genuinely enjoy an affluent lifestyle here that might be out of reach in many Western countries.

For many expats, this is a big advantage. English is widely used in business and daily life, which makes settling in easier and reduces the “language barrier stress” that can exist elsewhere. It also helps when building friendships with locals and navigating day-to-day tasks.

A year-round warm climate is not for everyone, but many people enjoy the sunshine and the ability to live life outdoors. If you miss cooler weather, you can take short breaks to colder destinations, or head to highland areas locally. Malaysia is also relatively sheltered from the major natural disasters that affect parts of the Asia region, such as frequent typhoons and major earthquakes.

Malaysia is a well-known destination for medical tourism, and it is easy to see why. There are many well-qualified doctors and excellent hospitals, and people often appreciate shorter waiting times compared with some Western systems. For many retirees, this is a major factor in their long-term decision-making.

Malaysia’s mix of communities creates a cultural richness that is obvious from the day you arrive. You can experience Malay, Chinese and Indian traditions side by side, from food and festivals to architecture and everyday customs.

Crime exists in Malaysia, as it does everywhere, but most expats find day-to-day life feels comparatively safe, especially regarding violent crime. Gun control is strict. The more common risks tend to be petty theft, break-ins (which is why good building security matters), and scams, which have become more common globally in recent years.

Malaysia has steadily developed its infrastructure over the decades, and it shows. There are highways across the country, modern airports, efficient toll roads, and increasingly impressive city skylines. Many condos come with excellent facilities, and the quality of private hospitals can be outstanding. Prince Court is one example many expats mention.

Malaysia has plenty of beaches, and island escapes are a major lifestyle bonus. The west coast is also a busy shipping lane, so water quality can vary in some areas, but there are still many popular beachfront resorts. For clearer waters, many people head to island destinations when they want that postcard experience.

There is a sizeable expat community, with social groups, business networks and clubs that make it easier to settle in. At TEG Media, we do our part with The Expat magazine, website ExpatGo, and our regular monthly gatherings, which have helped connect newcomers for many years.

There is no shortage of shopping, with a wide range of local and international products. Entertainment may be less intense than in some major Western cities, but between live shows, orchestras, cinemas and events, it is hard to be bored. Singapore attracts more global touring acts, but Malaysia certainly has its share of options.

Malaysia is a green, attractive country with plenty of places that still feel genuinely scenic. Rainforests, waterfalls, national parks, highland areas and coastal landscapes all offer easy weekend escapes, and Borneo adds another level of natural beauty for those who explore further.

Reliable mobile coverage and decent broadband make everyday life easy, from WhatsApp and Zoom calls to streaming Netflix, Astro GO and Prime Video. Online banking and online shopping are standard, and most people can stay connected without much hassle.

The pace of life often feels slower than in many countries. That is not always perfect when you want something done quickly, but for many retirees and families, it is a positive. Compared with Singapore in particular, Malaysia feels less rushed.

Families have plenty of choices when it comes to international education, especially around Kuala Lumpur, Selangor and Penang. Malaysia also has many universities, including several foreign university campuses, particularly from the UK and Australia.

Because Malaysia is so diverse, the festival calendar is packed. Hari Raya, Chinese New Year and Deepavali are all major celebrations and national holidays. Christmas is also widely recognised and celebrated in many communities.

Property prices are often significantly lower than in many Western countries, especially for the quality and space you can get. Rental costs can be even more favourable in some areas because rental yields are relatively low compared with global “hot” markets.