What do I need to know before retiring in Malaysia?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Malaysia, they said...
"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," mentioned another expat when asked about moving to 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," commented one expat who made the move to Petaling Jaya, Malaysia.
Cigna Global HealthGet Quote
With Cigna Global Health Options, you can create an international health insurance plan that's perfectly tailored for the needs of you and your family. We provide the reassurance of comprehensive core cover, and the flexibility of adding as many extra benefits as you want to ensure you have a plan perfectly suited to your needs.
Cigna Global HealthWith Cigna Global Health Options, you can create an international health insurance plan that's perfectly tailored for the needs of you and your family. We provide the reassurance of comprehensive core cover, and the flexibility of adding as many extra benefits as you want to ensure you have a plan perfectly suited to your needs.
Get Quote
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 do I need to know before retiring 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.
