Investopedia also published this year’s “World’s Cheapest, Safest Retirement Countries,” and again, Malaysia is the only Asian country to be included in this listing.
If you are looking to retire in Asia, Malaysia is definitely the country that you should consider. So for today’s blog post, let’s take a look at the 9 reasons why this beautiful land of islands, sea and incredible countryside, is a winner when it comes to spending your golden years.
1. You can enjoy a lower cost of living.
The cost of living is probably the top reason why one should retire in this country. Compared to USA, the cost of living is 43% lower in Malaysia. Accommodation, food, groceries, and even household help are all inexpensive.
2. No more winter days.
With Malaysia’s tropical climate, you don’t have to worry about shoveling snow again. During the day, temperatures rise above 30°C (86°F) year-round and during the night, temperatures rarely drop below 20°C (68°F). However, you also need to prepare for the rain because downpours also happen during the months of April to October on the West and November to February on the East coast.
3. It is home to a number of idyllic beaches and ancient rainforests.
When you think of your retirement years, I’m sure you imagine yourself enjoying endless beach days. If that’s the case, you’ll surely love the abundance of pristine white-sand beaches – like more than 878 islands to choose from! Aside from beaches, you will also love the rainforests that Malaysia is also known for.
4. You will have access to cheaper, but high quality healthcare.
When it comes to healthcare, you are definitely in good hands in Malaysia. In fact, the medical tourism industry is booming in this country. Even people from surrounding countries like Indonesia and Singapore, go to Malaysia to seek high quality healthcare. If you are in Kuala Lumpur and Penang, most hospitals there meet the gold standards of healthcare in the globe. Plus, you won’t have to worry about communication because all healthcare practitioners speak English and a lot of doctors were trained internationally according to Western standards of delivering the best quality of care to patients.
5. It’s a safe and peaceful country.
Malaysia is a relatively safe country, but of course, like any country in the world, crimes of opportunity do exist, such as bag snatching, and credit/debit card debt. Therefore, it is your responsibility to follow the basic safety precautions to minimize the risk.
6. It will be easier for you to discover the beauty of Asia.
Malaysia is just a short flight away from some of the world’s top tourist destinations, such as Bali, Phuket, Palawan, Coron, Boracay, Saigon, Siem Reap, and more.
7. It won’t be hard to drive around.
Driving around will be quite easy since the Malaysian law is based on British system. All road signs are in English and Malay so you won’t have any problems understanding them.
8. Almost everyone can communicate with English.
There’s no need to worry about communication issues because most Malaysians can speak and understand English.
9. You can own a property in Malaysia.
Unlike other nations, Malaysia allows foreigners to buy properties in their country, and obtain leasehold title.
If you wish to retire in Malaysia, you can apply for the “Malaysia My Second Home” (MM2H) program, and avail different benefits such as 10-year year Social Visit Pass and Multiple-Entry Visa, 80% of housing loan, a chance to invest and own a business in the country, as well as import/purchase a new car tax-free.
