Survey shows Malaysia still a popular expat professional choice

A recent survey has tipped Malaysia is the place to be for expat quality of life.

Whilst Singapore again took the top spot in HSBC’s Expat Explorer survey, Malaysia is known for the ease of settling in as regards accommodation, healthcare and international quality schooling. The sheer simplicity of the bureaucratic process for expat professionals compared to other Southeast Asian countries is a major reason why expat numbers are on the rise.

Malaysia’s expat community holds 44 per cent of Europeans along with 18 per cent of arrivals from East Asia, with the remainder coming from all over the world. Over half reported they live in a far nicer property than at home, take more holidays and employ more domestic help to make their lives easier. A healthy 18 per cent said they were able to give more to their favourite charities.

Almost all those surveyed agreed Malaysians were amongst the most friendly, welcoming people on the planet, especially to new arrivals who needed practical advice and help in settling in. Two thirds of respondents said making friends was easier than in their home countries, with half of the respondents agreeing their social lives were far better than they’d expected.

Children also found it easier to make friends both locally and at school, and the education system is perfect for international arrivals as there’s a choice of schools catering to all levels. Importantly, finding suitable accommodation is also straightforward, and rental charges are easily affordable. On average, expat wages allow a comfortable life, with the majority of those who took part in the survey more than happy with their new home.