Expat Guide: Live in Malaysia, Join the Expat Community
Thinking of starting a new chapter in Southeast Asia? Malaysia is one of the most popular destinations for expats from Western countries, offering a unique mix of affordability, modern infrastructure, cultural diversity, and tropical living. Whether you’re planning to move to Malaysia permanently or exploring life as a digital nomad, this expat guide will walk you through everything you need to know to live in Malaysia—from the cost of living to visa options and the thriving expat community.
Why Malaysia is One of the Best Expat Destinations
Malaysia is one of the top-rated countries for expats due to its low cost of living, excellent healthcare system, and welcoming locals. From the bustling capital of Kuala Lumpur to the relaxed coastal vibes of Penang, there’s a lifestyle for every kind of expat.
English is widely spoken, especially in urban areas, making it easy for many expats to adapt quickly. Whether you’re a retiree, remote worker, or entrepreneur, Malaysia offers a safe, affordable, and connected environment to thrive in.
💰 Cost of Living in Malaysia: How Affordable is It?
The cost of living in Malaysia is significantly lower than in most Western countries. Rent, food, transport, and healthcare are all very affordable—especially when compared to cities like New York, London, or Sydney.
| Expense Category | Average Monthly Cost (Couple) |
|---|---|
| Rent (KL or Penang) | $500–$800 |
| Utilities & Internet | $80–$120 |
| Dining Out | $150–$300 |
| Healthcare Insurance | $100–$200 |
| Transportation | $50–$100 |
With a monthly budget of around $1,500 to $2,000, expats in Malaysia can enjoy a comfortable and high-quality lifestyle.
🏙️ Top Cities for Expats
Guide for expats, Malaysia is divided into two main geographical regions: West Malaysia (also known as Peninsular Malaysia) and East Malaysia (located on the island of Borneo). Both offer distinct lifestyles, landscapes, and opportunities for expats, depending on your preferences. Considering moving to Malaysia? Here are some of the best places and most popular expat destinations.
West Malaysia: Urban Living, International Access, and Expat Hubs
West Malaysia is where you’ll find most of the country’s infrastructure, international airports, economic centers, and the largest expat communities. It’s more developed than the East, offering excellent amenities, public transportation, and job opportunities.
Kuala Lumpur – The capital city is a favorite among expats looking for a cosmopolitan vibe, job opportunities, and world-class infrastructure. You’ll find endless cafes, co-working spaces, and malls—plus a large expat community.
Penang Island – This island city is known for its laid-back lifestyle, street food culture, and colonial charm. Penang is a hotspot for retirees and families, especially those looking for more space and access to beaches.
Johor Bahru – Just across the border from Singapore, Johor Bahru is a growing city with lower living costs and increasing development. It’s popular with commuters and expats seeking proximity to Singapore without the high price tag.
East Malaysia (Borneo): Nature, Adventure, and Local Immersion
For nature lovers and adventurers, East Malaysia—including Sabah and Sarawak—offers jungle escapes, wildlife, and a more affordable cost of living. It’s ideal for those who want to be off the beaten path but still connected.
Kota Kinabalu (Sabah) – Set between mountains and the sea, Kota Kinabalu is ideal for expats who enjoy hiking, scuba diving, and exploring national parks. The cost of living is even lower than in West Malaysia, and while the expat community is smaller, it’s tight-knit and welcoming.
Kuching (Sarawak) – Known for its friendly locals, unique culture, and peaceful environment. It offers a relaxed vibe, good food, and a genuine sense of community—making it ideal for retirees or anyone looking to escape the fast pace of city life.
Both sides of Malaysia offer rich experiences for expats—from city living and career growth to beach escapes and jungle adventures. Whether you’re relocating for work, retirement, or adventure, there’s a part of Malaysia that fits your goals.
🏥 Safety, Healthcare & Quality of Life
Malaysia is relatively safe, and while petty crimes occur in crowded areas and tourist hotspots, serious incidents are rare. Malaysia is generally a safe country for expats, with private security and gated communities common.
Its healthcare system is excellent, with public and private hospitals available in Malaysia. You’ll get quality treatment at a fraction of the cost compared to the U.S. or Europe.
The combination of low cost of living, modern amenities, and cultural depth offers a high quality of life.
🎓 Education: International Schools in Malaysia
If you’re moving with children, international schools in Malaysia offer globally recognized curricula such as the British, American, IB, and Australian systems. Kuala Lumpur and Penang have a wide range of high-quality schools, making the country ideal for expat families.
📄 Visa Options for Expats
Malaysia offers several visa options depending on your purpose of stay:
- Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H): A long-term residency visa, ideal for retirees and financially independent expats.
- DE Rantau Nomad Pass: Designed for digital nomads who work remotely while living in Malaysia.
- Employment Pass: For skilled professionals with job offers from Malaysian companies.
Malaysia can help expats transition smoothly with clear immigration policies and opportunities to stay long-term.
🚗 Getting Around Malaysia
Public transport in Malaysia is reliable in big cities, with MRT, LRT, and buses serving most areas. You can also drive in Malaysia with an international driving permit or apply for a local license if staying longer.
🏡 Real Estate: Can Expats Buy Property?
Yes, foreigners looking to buy real estate in Malaysia can do so with some minimum value requirements, depending on the state. Many choose to invest in condominiums or landed property in gated neighborhoods for added security and value.
👥 Join the Expat Community in Malaysia
The expat community in Malaysia is diverse and well-connected. You’ll find active social groups, clubs, and networking events in major cities. From cultural festivals to weekend getaways, there are endless opportunities to meet like-minded expats and locals.
Many online forums and Facebook groups provide guidance and support for those newly settling in the country. Whether you’re a solo traveler, couple, or family, you’ll feel part of a welcoming global network. You can live comfortably in Malaysia, a country predominantly made up of Malays, followed by Chinese, Indians, and other minority ethnic groups.
🏡 Life in Malaysia: What to Expect
Life in Malaysia is a balance of modern convenience and deep cultural richness. The food is phenomenal, public transport is improving, and the healthcare system is both affordable and high-quality. For expats, the pace of life can range from fast and connected in the cities to laid-back in smaller towns and rural areas.
Before moving, it’s important to understand that Islam is the predominant religion, and Bahasa Malaysia or Malay is the official language of Malaysia. That said, English is widely spoken, especially in major cities, making it easier for many to live and work comfortably. Malaysia as an expat destination is welcoming and diverse, with a mix of modern infrastructure and traditional values.
The lower cost of living allows you to enjoy a high quality of life—whether you’re dining at hawker stalls, shopping in mega malls, or exploring rainforests and beaches. From island hopping and hiking trails to rooftop bars and heritage festivals, lifestyle options are endless for those looking to embrace expat life in Malaysia.
Understanding and respecting local customs, dress codes, and cultural practices will help ease your transition. If you’re planning to live and work in Malaysia, this knowledge will go a long way in helping you integrate into society and build meaningful connections.
📦 Ready to Move to Malaysia?
If you’re considering making Malaysia your new home, now is a great time. With slower pace of life, an affordable living costs, a strong expat network, and attractive visa program options like MM2H, this Southeast Asian gem checks all the boxes for a fulfilling overseas life.
Final Thoughts: Is Malaysia a Good Country to Live In?
Malaysia may just be the perfect destination for your next chapter. It’s a safe country for expats, with a high standard of living, excellent infrastructure, and a warm, welcoming culture.
Whether you’re an adventurous retiree, remote worker, or a family seeking a change, expat life in Malaysia offers incredible value, vibrant diversity, and long-term stability.
If you want to live in Malaysia, take the first step today. Malaysia’s charm, opportunities, and affordability make it one of the best in Southeast Asia for international living.