An Expat Talks about Moving to Penang, Malaysia

What is the name of the city or town that you are reporting on?

Penang

What advice would you give someone preparing to move to your area about the actual move, choosing a neighborhood and finding a home?

Before moving to Penang it is important to be aware of the climate and the cultural and religious landscape. Penang has a tropical climate with high humidity, so it's best to prepare for hot, humid weather. It is also important to be aware that Penang has a diverse population and it is important to be respectful and mindful of multiple religions and cultures when living there. As the cost of living in Penang is generally lower than other parts of the country, it is important to plan for financial resources. The local currency is the Malaysian Ringgit. Knowing the language is also helpful; the official language of Penang is Malay, but English and Mandarin are also commonly spoken. Additionally, it is important to be aware of the local laws, rules and regulations. Lastly, having health insurance is important, as access to public health care is limited and private health care can be expensive.