Digital Nomad Life in 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 member in Petaling Jaya.

"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," explained one expat living in 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 person in 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," said one expat who made the move to Petaling Jaya.

"Finding a place to live in Malaysia can seem daunting, but there are several resources available to help. A good first step would be to search online for rental listings that offer the exact features, area, and price range that you are looking for. Additionally, if you are relocating to Malaysia, you could contact relocation or rental agencies that specialize in Malaysia and ask for their assistance. Another option is to contact real estate agents and inquire about available rental units in your desired location, or to check out popular expat websites or Facebook groups where people offer listings and discuss rental opportunities. Finally, classified ads and local publications offer listings of accommodations for rent too," said one person in Malaysia.

"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," said one expat 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," remarked one member in Petaling Jaya.

"Expatriates in Malaysia are drawn to the country’s diverse culture and friendly, welcoming people. They appreciate the country’s rich heritage, as well as its beautiful, natural environment and its unique blend of traditional and modern influences. Expats also value the variety of delicious cuisines, including Malay, Chinese, and Indian, and the many opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, climbing, and scuba diving. Additionally, the affordable cost of living and the relatively lower taxes compared to other countries makes living in Malaysia attractive for expats," said one expat who made the move to Malaysia.

"I appreciate the people are calm and welcoming. Also things are considered much cheaper than US," explained one foreigner living in Malaysia.

"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 one person in Malaysia.

"The SMOG!!! The TRAFFIC!!! and the POLLUTION!! Everyone just throws rubbish about and they don't care about the environment. Very sad. Also missing access to the outdoors (too hot here and too many snakes and bugs that bite) and playing sport," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Kuala Lumpur.

"If you plan to stay in Malaysia for a while, you will need to apply for a valid visa depending on the duration of your stay. A 90-day tourist visa, a 90-day business visa and a multiple entry visa are some of the visas available to foreigners. You may also need additional documents such as a copy of your passport and recent passport-sized photographs. Depending on the amount of time you intend to stay, you may also need to apply for a long-term residence permit or apply for an immigration visa," remarked one member in Malaysia.

"If you tire of Visa Hopping, for long-term stays on needs a Sarawak Malaysia My Second Home (S-MM2H) Visa. This is different from and more affordable vs. the Federal MM2H Visa. Sarawak has autonomy over immigration so has its own retirement visa. Generally (unless you have kids enrolled in local schools or purchase property) it is restricted to those over 50 years of age. You cannot work in Malaysia on the S-MM2H visa. Work remotely is okay or if you commute occasionally. There is only a 15-day mandatory "residency" per year. There are three main requirements - 1) you must show you have no criminal background. So you must provide a crminal background check from your home or domicile country. 2) You must show you aren't carrying a serious contagion and don't have evidence of drug abuse. That means a health checkup is required IN SARAWAK. 3) Financial requirements. There are lots of options here but essentially it breaks into two choices. EITHER you need to show sufficient income to live in Sarawak (RM1700/mo. single or RM2500/mo for couples) OR you must establish a Fixed Deposit of RM150,000 (single) or RM300,000 (couples). Current exchange rate is US$1/RM4.45. There are some withdrawals you can take after the first year for property/car purchase, educational expenses, or medical care...but 60% of the deposit must remain in the account. To prove your foreign income they ask to see 6 months of previous pay slips/deposits...for pension 3 months of warrants. You alo need EITHER a local Sarawakian to sponsor you, or obtain a registered agent for the Sarawak MM2H (the must be Sarawakian and not Peninsular Malaysian). There are some documents they have to sign and an interview as to how the sponsor knows you. They guarantee a bond that varies by country based upon deportation costs (airfare to home country). That can vary b/w RM300-RM3000. You'll generally pay the sponsor/agent that amount One did need to come to Sarawak to apply previously, but agents will submit on your behalf if you are applying under the Income/Pension option. You will get a Letter of Conditional Approval...pending the taking of the Sarawak Health Check (which requires a visit, of course). If approved you will get a 5+5 visa (five years plus renewal for another five requiring only the submission of updated financial report and a check that you've met the 15/day residence/year requirement. Visa fees have gone up to RM500/year. You'll generally pay for the first five years or the term of your passport -whichever is lower). Thus if you only have three years on your passport it'll cost RM1500 wth the remaining RM1000 deferred until you transfer the visa into your new passport. Here's the link to the official Sarawak MM2H page. See also the "Sarawak My Second Home Group" on Facebook. Lot's of agents are putting up sites to promote their wares. Sarawak Tourism Board also has a webpage," explained one expat living in Kuching, Malaysia.

"Malaysia offers a retirement visa. With that said, we find the financial requirement for this visa is high. We are currently under a tourist visa and that is iffy. Not something I would recommend; however, there are many expats doing this. You seem to be at the whim of the immigration officer. We live our lives 3 months at a time with a back up plan. Malaysia is missing the point. We are pure consumers here. While we can't financially do the retirement visa, we have plenty of money to pay our way. There is no middle ground with Malaysia. They seem to want to attract the wealthier retirees," said one person in Penang.

"Yes, a male does not shake a lady's hand UNLESS she herself acts first. You do NOT hug members of the opposite sex. Also, be very careful about complimenting a lady, as she may take this as "interest" in her...especially IF she is married! This was difficult for me, as I am a very friendly (in a non sexual way!) person, who used to hug and compliment everyone. LOL," explained one person living in Seremban 2, Malaysia.

"It is important to be respectful of local customs in Malaysia. It is considered rude to speak loudly or criticize another culture or religion. Additionally, avoid public displays of affection, dress conservatively, and refrain from pointing with your index finger. When invited to someone's home, it is polite to bring a small gift, such as flowers or food. Foreigners should also take care not to accidentally offend someone by using left hand to eat or give a gift," said one expat in Malaysia.

"Probably do all the time and just don't realise! Lost in translation happens a lot when trying to communicate something," remarked one member in Kuala Lumpur.

"Excellent clinics with Providers trained internationally, many with US Board certification -- especially true at private hospitals and clinics," said one member in Georgetown.

"Malaysia offers a wide range of healthcare services, including primary care, specialist care, and hospital services. The public healthcare system in Malaysia is generally of good quality and is accessible to both citizens and foreign residents. Expats in Malaysia can use the public healthcare system, but they may need to pay for some services. The public healthcare system is funded by the government and is free for citizens, although there may be charges for certain services. Expats in Malaysia can access the public healthcare system by registering with a local clinic or hospital. They may also be able to access private healthcare services, which are generally of a higher quality than the public system. Expats may need to pay for private healthcare services, but they may be able to claim some of the costs back through their insurance," explained one expat in Malaysia.

"Expats and digital nomads often appreciate the low cost of living in Malaysia, as well as the diverse culture and cuisine. They also enjoy the tropical climate and the fact that English is widely spoken. On the other hand, some expats and digital nomads may find the bureaucracy and red tape in Malaysia to be frustrating, as well as the lack of reliable public transportation. Additionally, the humidity can be oppressive for some," explained one person living in Malaysia.

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