Title: Living and Working Remotely in Malaysia: A Digital Nomad’s Tale
Hello Nomads,
Ethan Brown here, your friendly neighborhood digital nomad, reporting from the tropical paradise of Malaysia. I’ve been living and working here for the past nine months, and it’s been a fascinating journey. I felt it was high time I shared my experiences and insights about living and working remotely in Malaysia, a destination that often goes unnoticed in the digital nomad community.
Let’s start with the cost of living; it’s one of the main reasons I found Malaysia so attractive. It’s incredibly affordable, especially considering the high quality of life it offers. A one-bedroom apartment in a central location will set you back between $300-$600 per month. Groceries are reasonable, with local fruits and vegetables being particularly cheap. Eating out is a joy, with a vast array of cuisines available for just a few dollars per meal. Depending on your lifestyle, you could live comfortably for around $1000-$1500 per month.
Working remotely in Malaysia is a breeze, thanks to the abundance of coworking spaces across the country. The capital, Kuala Lumpur, hosts a variety of spaces like Common Ground, Colony, and WORQ, with monthly memberships ranging from $150-$200. These spaces offer high-speed internet, meeting rooms, and a fantastic opportunity to network with other digital nomads and local entrepreneurs.
Speaking of the internet, Malaysia boasts impressive connectivity. With an average speed of around 78 Mbps, working online is seamless. Even in more remote areas, I’ve found the 4G coverage to be reliable. Coupled with the country’s time zone (GMT+8), it’s been effortless to schedule meetings with clients worldwide.
Now, let’s talk about the visa situation. Malaysia offers a 90-day tourist visa on arrival to many nationalities, which makes it a convenient choice for digital nomads. However, remember that this is a tourist visa, and working on it technically isn’t legal. For longer stays, the Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) programme is an excellent option, offering a renewable 10-year visa, but it requires a substantial financial commitment.
From a personal perspective, Malaysia has been nothing short of a revelation. It’s a melting pot of cultures, each contributing to a rich tapestry of experiences. The locals are friendly and most speak English, which makes the transition much simpler. The food is diverse and delicious, with Malay, Chinese, Indian, and Western cuisines all readily available.
The country’s natural beauty is breathtaking, from the pristine beaches of Langkawi to the lush rainforests of Borneo. Malaysia’s exceptional transportation infrastructure makes it easy to explore these wonders. There’s also a vibrant digital nomad community, especially in Kuala Lumpur and Penang, which regularly organizes meetups and activities.
A few tips for prospective digital nomads considering Malaysia:
1. Malaysian weather is tropical, so pack accordingly. Lightweight clothing is a must. Don’t forget your waterproof gear because when it rains, it pours!
2. While Malaysia is predominantly Muslim, it’s quite liberal. However, it’s still important to respect local customs and dress modestly, especially during religious holidays.
3. Grab is the local Uber equivalent and a lifesaver for getting around. It’s cheaper and often more efficient than taxis.
4. Malaysia’s street food is delectable but can be a little spicy for some. Don’t be afraid to ask for less heat when ordering.
5. Get a local SIM card. They’re cheap and offer excellent coverage.
6. Lastly, always carry cash. Many local establishments still don’t accept cards.
Living and working remotely in Malaysia is a rewarding experience. The country offers a fantastic balance of affordability, quality of life, and professional facilities. While it might not be the first place that comes to mind for digital nomads, it certainly deserves consideration.
As I sign off from my balcony overlooking the Petronas Twin Towers, I invite you to consider the underappreciated gem that is Malaysia. Maybe our paths will cross in a coworking space or a local food market soon. Until then, stay adventurous!
Ethan Brown, signing off.