Shah Alam, Malaysia7 Tips for Living in Shah Alam
Summary: Advice for people moving to Shah Alam or thinking about moving there.
This is a must read if you're moving to Shah Alam or thinking about moving there.
Shah Alam, the state capital of Selangor, Malaysia, is a vibrant city that offers a unique blend of modern amenities and traditional charm. It's a popular destination for expats and digital nomads, thanks to its affordable cost of living, friendly locals, and a plethora of recreational and cultural attractions. Here are seven key tips to help you make the most of your time in Shah Alam.
1. Understand the Local Culture
Malaysia is a multicultural country, and Shah Alam is no exception. The city is predominantly Muslim, and it's important to respect local customs and traditions. Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites like the Sultan Salahuddin Abdul Aziz Mosque, the largest mosque in Malaysia. Also, try to learn a few basic phrases in Bahasa Malaysia, the national language. This will not only help you navigate daily life but also earn you respect from the locals.
2. Explore the Neighborhoods
Shah Alam is divided into 56 sections, each with its unique character. Section 13 is known for its sports facilities, including the Shah Alam Stadium and the Malawati Indoor Stadium. Section 14, on the other hand, is the city's commercial hub, home to numerous shops, restaurants, and the popular Shah Alam City Centre Mall. For a quieter, more residential feel, consider Section 9 or Section 11, which are known for their beautiful houses and lush green parks.
3. Enjoy the Local Cuisine
Malaysian food is a gastronomic delight, and Shah Alam offers a wide variety of dining options. For a taste of traditional Malay cuisine, head to Restoran Sambal Hijau, known for its delicious nasi campur. If you're a fan of Indian food, Restoran Anjappar offers a range of South Indian dishes. For a more upscale dining experience, The Roof Restaurant in Section 13 offers a fusion of Western and Asian cuisines with stunning views of the city.
4. Take Advantage of Public Transportation
Shah Alam is well-connected by public transportation, making it easy to explore the city and beyond. The city is served by the KTM Komuter train and RapidKL buses. There's also a free shuttle bus service, known as the Smart Selangor Bus, that operates within the city. For shorter distances, Grab (the local equivalent of Uber) is a convenient and affordable option.
5. Embrace the Outdoor Lifestyle
Shah Alam is known for its green spaces. The Shah Alam Lake Gardens is a popular spot for jogging, cycling, and picnicking. The city is also home to the Shah Alam National Botanic Park, which offers hiking trails and a beautiful lake. For golf enthusiasts, the Glenmarie Golf and Country Club and the Kelab Golf Sultan Abdul Aziz Shah are must-visit destinations.
6. Stay Connected
As a digital nomad, staying connected is crucial. Fortunately, Shah Alam has reliable internet service, with numerous cafes offering free Wi-Fi. Some popular spots include The Sumbs Cafe for its cozy atmosphere and delicious food, and The Library Coffee Bar for its spacious work area. Additionally, consider getting a local SIM card for data on the go. Providers like Maxis, Celcom, and Digi offer affordable plans with good coverage.
7. Get Involved in the Community
One of the best ways to feel at home in a new city is to get involved in the community. Shah Alam has a vibrant expat community, and there are numerous opportunities to meet new people. Consider joining local clubs or groups that align with your interests. Volunteering is another great way to give back to the community and make meaningful connections. Remember, the more you put into your experience, the more you'll get out of it.
Living in Shah Alam, as an expat or digital nomad can be a rewarding experience. By understanding the local culture, exploring the neighborhoods, enjoying the local cuisine, taking advantage of public transportation, embracing the outdoor lifestyle, staying connected, and getting involved in the community, you can make the most of your time in this vibrant city.
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SJB GlobalSJB-Global is a top-rated financial advisory firm specializing in expat financial advice worldwide, offering retirement planning & tax-efficient solutions with a regressive fee model. Our clients benefit from their country’s most favorable tax environment by utilizing the efficient investment vehicles we offer. Our commitment to quality service is reflected in our stellar reviews, with over 300 testimonials boasting 95% five-star ratings.
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About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International
and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University
with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
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