Living in Malaysia
Explore what day-to-day living is like, from culture and housing to transport, healthcare, and expat essentials.
Moving to Malaysia? Here's what everyday life looks like, from cultural norms and housing to transport and healthcare.
Daily Life and Culture
Malaysia is a vibrant, multicultural country with strong Malay, Chinese, Indian, and Indigenous influences. English is widely spoken in urban areas, which makes integration relatively easy for most expatriates. The country is known for its religious harmony, with mosques, temples, and churches often found side by side.
Expats are generally welcomed warmly. Social etiquette emphasizes respect for elders, modest dress in public places, and cultural sensitivity during religious events like Ramadan. Public holidays reflect the country’s diversity and include both Islamic and Chinese festivals, among others.
Where to Live
Most expatriates settle in:
Kuala Lumpur: Malaysia’s capital and economic hub. Ideal for professionals and families due to its international schools, private hospitals, and modern condos.
Penang: Offers a slower pace of life, excellent food, and a thriving expat community—particularly popular with retirees and digital nomads.
Johor Bahru: Close to Singapore and attractive to cross-border workers.
Langkawi or Ipoh: Smaller towns with lower costs and scenic surroundings, although services may be more limited.
Housing is generally affordable, with a wide range of options from high-rise apartments to gated communities. Most rental agreements are for 1–2 years, and many properties come furnished.
Getting Around and Staying Connected
Transportation
Malaysia has a good transport system in cities, with MRT, LRT, and monorail lines in Kuala Lumpur. Ride-hailing apps like Grab are reliable and widely used. Outside major cities, owning a car may be necessary.
Banking and Mobile
Opening a bank account requires a valid visa and proof of residence. Internet and mobile data are affordable and fast, with providers like Maxis, Celcom, and Digi offering extensive coverage.
Food and Shopping
Malaysia is a food lover’s paradise, with hawker stalls, night markets, and malls offering everything from local dishes to international brands. Groceries and dining out are both budget-friendly.
Healthcare and Health Insurance
Malaysia has excellent private healthcare, especially in urban centers. Public hospitals are available but may involve long wait times and are not subsidized for foreigners.
That’s why international health insurance is a must. At Interexpat, we help expats choose comprehensive plans that cover:
Outpatient consultations and hospitalization
Emergency medical evacuation
Maternity and family care
Dental and vision services
