Retirement in JB, KL or Stay Put in SG? My Ongoing Comparison...

[Levis]

23 hours ago, nate42 said:

 

We could have rented the unit out and gotten about S$1,000 per month.  Which we (I) did for almost 2 years until the wife found out.  Last 8 months we have been going over a once or twice a month. To clean up the place.  We'd have massages, service my car, did grocery shopping and ate out.  Usual stuff.  On occasion, we would bring my in-laws along for a short holiday since we had the room.

 

@nate42, cool. Nice retiree lifestyle. Carefree and easy. I'm so looking forward to that kind of lifestyle soon. 😃

[Levis]

10 hours ago, radiusulnar said:

How important is it to speak and read malay to live there?

As a tourist it is possible to get by with English or Chinese. But day to day living outside tourist spots and dealing with government departments etc. how easy for non Malay speakers?

 

@radiusulnar, according to my cousin who is a civil servant there, she said that while it's true that the official language is Malay, most front-desk civil servants are also able to converse in English, which wouldn't be a concern for us. Actually, she mainly told me that I should manage my expectations wrt the government service staff's activeness in seeking resolutions for the issues I raised. I suppose that's indirectly telling me that about the efficiency issues. Personally, I've some prior engagements with banking services there. So far, the experiences have been mixed. Some of them really don't bother about your issues until you escalate further. Some of them are active in seeking resolutions for me. So I supposed it depends on the organisation's attitude towards service. However, I guess my experiences may be unique since I am not a local there.

 

Not sure if any M'sian locals can attest and share here?

[ToughGuy]

10 hours ago, radiusulnar said:

How important is it to speak and read malay to live there?

As a tourist it is possible to get by with English or Chinese. But day to day living outside tourist spots and dealing with government departments etc. how easy for non Malay speakers?

Government depts, English is ok... But if you want to lower barriers within seconds, speak fluent Malay... Think this is not just Malaysia.... Native spoken language and twang, super quick "connection"

 

(I been asked many occasions by Polis(at road block), "kamu Melayu ker?"

Edited July 20, 2025 by ToughGuy

[Levis]

3 minutes ago, ToughGuy said:

Government depts, English is ok... But if you want to lower barriers within seconds, speak fluent Malay... Think this is not just Malaysia.... Native spoken language and twang, super quick "connection"

 

(I been asked many occasions by Polis(at road block), "kamu Melayu ker?"

 

@ToughGuy, saw you are staying at Selangor, so you may be a M'sian. If yes, then it's no doubt you guys (even Chinese as I understand from my cousin) do learn Melayu. For folks like myself who may want to plant myself there, afraid a bit late to learn your local language. LOL.

[ToughGuy]

34 minutes ago, Levis said:

 

@ToughGuy, saw you are staying at Selangor, so you may be a M'sian. If yes, then it's no doubt you guys (even Chinese as I understand from my cousin) do learn Melayu. For folks like myself who may want to plant myself there, afraid a bit late to learn your local language. LOL.

 

In reality, regardless of state, very few Chinese can read or write fluent Malay.

 

I studied in Government school... mingle with other races... When in Malay restaurant, I ate using my hand.

 

Like all languages, hang around with those fluent in the language and you will master the language in no time

 

Bahasa Melayu is easy to master..easier than sex😂😂😂

Edited July 20, 2025 by ToughGuy

[auscent]

35 minutes ago, Levis said:

 

@auscent, thanks for sharing! Volunteerism is great. Something that I would want to take up in near future too. What are the social causes that you care for besides helping the refugees you mentioned earlier? What are some of the charitable organisations that you think are worthy to work with? I think some of us, including myself would want to explore that eventually when we go over. Good to do some homework 1st.

 

Another thing I wanted to check-in with you is whether you have tried staying in the various neighbourhoods and have shortlisted which areas you would likely settle in? I've tried staying at BB, Pudu, Cheras, Jalan Ampang, Bangsar South, etc. All not bad. But I find BB most exciting and probably with the most infra that would meet my city-life needs and lots of famous food around that area. Would want to try Damasara, Desa Park or even Kepong (because it's near FRIM). Any sharing on the neighbourhoods that are good?

 

I also like the idea of driving around M'sia too. There are really a lot of nice and not as touristy areas worth visiting (ie. East Coast area).

 

Preparation

: I think it is best to start some activities (eg: volunteer) before full time retirement. Then smoother transition rather than anxiety inducing. Kuala Lumpur has larger groups of poor. For beginners, soup kitchen is good start. I have done all sorts.

 

Kuala Lumpur suburbs

: I prefer suburbs close to KL centre (no Puchong), less touristy (no BBintang), not to crowded (no Damansara/ Cheras/ no Bangsar Sth), middle class. My pick is Bangsar. Ive stayed/ travelled to these in my recce.

 

 

 

 

 

[ToughGuy]

16 minutes ago, auscent said:

 

Preparation

: I think it is best to start some activities (eg: volunteer) before full time retirement. Then smoother transition rather than anxiety inducing. Kuala Lumpur has larger groups of poor. For beginners, soup kitchen is good start. I have done all sorts.

 

Kuala Lumpur suburbs

: I prefer suburbs close to KL centre (no Puchong), less touristy (no BBintang), not to crowded (no Damansara/ Cheras/ no Bangsar Sth), middle class. My pick is Bangsar. Ive stayed/ travelled to these in my recce.

 

 

 

 

 

Bangsa, kawasan orang have2 

 

KL center??..concrete, mall, expensive restaurant, jam kao2....no-no for me

 

I hate dense crowded place...oxygen is low, BO is high..eg Singapore, KLCC, Midvalley Megamall 😂😂😂

Edited July 20, 2025 by ToughGuy

[Coolbriz]

Hey Levis and guys, thanks for starting this thread and sharing all your valuable insights, experiences and thoughts. 
 

I have also considered retiring in JB. In fact, the reason why I wasn’t executing it is because my mom isn’t keen with the idea. I need to move with her to JB in order to rent out my house for the rental income. She has friends and relatives here so naturally she is reluctant to make such drastic move. I can totally understand. So I got to hold my thoughts for now. 
 

I once met a Sg Malay couple who owns a unit at R&F in JB and they shared that they got “disturbed” by the Malaysian custom for staying too long in JB and so they had no choice but go back to sg and stay with their kids over the weekend every week. I didn’t have the chance to probe further to find out what could be the possible cause. Yet, I have heard from friend’s friend who has been staying in JB for years only transiting back to sg once a month just to get the passport chopped without any issue. Seems like it depends on luck and how you put across the reason when asked. I’m not sure. 
 

mm2H used to set ridiculous criteria for applicants. They have lowered the requirement recently but yes you still got to own a property in Malaysia as one of the criteria. I don’t really like the idea of owning a property in Malaysia and locking my fund there as a result. 
 

Even choosing a place in JB can be a challenge as the really convenient places (closer to SG) might get very expensive especially with the completion of the RTS. Rental price might shoot up real high. So there are suggestions of venturing further in, ie Iskandar, Mount Austin, etc. But I am not sure if I can get used to staying in a place so deep in without the convenience of getting to a nearby mall or supermarket.
 

I have heard about the retirement village as well but I think the monthly cost is still pretty high. Well, I guess there is still room to explore further. I think there is also a need to try out the lifestyle in Malaysia by staying in a unit in JB/KL/PEN for a few months before I could really tell if it’s suitable for me. What do you guys think?

[ToughGuy]

57 minutes ago, Coolbriz said:

Hey Levis and guys, thanks for starting this thread and sharing all your valuable insights, experiences and thoughts. 
 

I have also considered retiring in JB. In fact, the reason why I wasn’t executing it is because my mom isn’t keen with the idea. I need to move with her to JB in order to rent out my house for the rental income. She has friends and relatives here so naturally she is reluctant to make such drastic move. I can totally understand. So I got to hold my thoughts for now. 
 

I once met a Sg Malay couple who owns a unit at R&F in JB and they shared that they got “disturbed” by the Malaysian custom for staying too long in JB and so they had no choice but go back to sg and stay with their kids over the weekend every week. I didn’t have the chance to probe further to find out what could be the possible cause. Yet, I have heard from friend’s friend who has been staying in JB for years only transiting back to sg once a month just to get the passport chopped without any issue. Seems like it depends on luck and how you put across the reason when asked. I’m not sure. 
 

mm2H used to set ridiculous criteria for applicants. They have lowered the requirement recently but yes you still got to own a property in Malaysia as one of the criteria. I don’t really like the idea of owning a property in Malaysia and locking my fund there as a result. 
 

Even choosing a place in JB can be a challenge as the really convenient places (closer to SG) might get very expensive especially with the completion of the RTS. Rental price might shoot up real high. So there are suggestions of venturing further in, ie Iskandar, Mount Austin, etc. But I am not sure if I can get used to staying in a place so deep in without the convenience of getting to a nearby mall or supermarket.
 

I have heard about the retirement village as well but I think the monthly cost is still pretty high. Well, I guess there is still room to explore further. I think there is also a need to try out the lifestyle in Malaysia by staying in a unit in JB/KL/PEN for a few months before I could really tell if it’s suitable for me. What do you guys think?

Being a tourist or go into JB on weekend for jalan2, cari makan is very different from "staying".

 

Immigration can not disturb as long as you didn't overstay(think 30 or 90 days?)...as we all know most officers, not only immigration, may throw fear or smoke... I been stopped at police road blocks, "cik, ini tak boleh"..my usually reply "cik, saya urgent nak gi meeting, sila tulis saman jer".....always know your rights and know legal vs illegal 

 

As for your Mum, bring her into M'sia more often..enjoy good food, abundance of freedom at much lower cost..soon she may ask "when going to JB??"😂😂😂

[ToughGuy]

2 hours ago, Levis said:

 

@radiusulnar, according to my cousin who is a civil servant there, she said that while it's true that the official language is Malay, most front-desk civil servants are also able to converse in English, which wouldn't be a concern for us. Actually, she mainly told me that I should manage my expectations wrt the government service staff's activeness in seeking resolutions for the issues I raised. I suppose that's indirectly telling me that about the efficiency issues. Personally, I've some prior engagements with banking services there. So far, the experiences have been mixed. Some of them really don't bother about your issues until you escalate further. Some of them are active in seeking resolutions for me. So I supposed it depends on the organisation's attitude towards service. However, I guess my experiences may be unique since I am not a local there.

 

Not sure if any M'sian locals can attest and share here?

Same lar everywhere.

 

Spore also have institutions with automated voice robots answering  calls then some operators asked zillion questions, "sorry, I need to transfer your call to another dept", back square one.....after 1 hr, got tired, hung up...wrote a nasty email to CEO, problem solved in 3-day

[auscent]

Try out as local

- a good way to assess if a place is suitable, is to stay like a local for some time. No hotels, no touristy places/ activities. Air bnb, local kopitiams.

 

- after shortlisting a few places, I started by recce. I even tag along a friend who took het father to local hosp in KL, to see public healthcare (to my surprise, pass)

[radiusulnar]

10 hours ago, ToughGuy said:

Bahasa Melayu is easy to master.

 

I think I will investigate classes. Hopefully can use Skills Future to pay for them.

[ToughGuy]

2 hours ago, radiusulnar said:

 

I think I will investigate classes. Hopefully can use Skills Future to pay for them.

👍🏻👍🏻

 

Try to get classes on Spoken BM...I doubt you will need to get into written BM for now

Edited July 21, 2025 by ToughGuy

[Levis]

22 hours ago, ToughGuy said:

 

In reality, regardless of state, very few Chinese can read or write fluent Malay.

 

I studied in Government school... mingle with other races... When in Malay restaurant, I ate using my hand.

 

Like all languages, hang around with those fluent in the language and you will master the language in no time

 

Bahasa Melayu is easy to master..easier than sex😂😂😂

 

@ToughGuy, any good resources for noobs like me to learn Bahasa Melayu to recommend? Learning languages has never been my forte in the past. Tried to learn French once in school but almost failed. Arrgghh!!! That's when I know I've no flair in languages. I rely on Google Translate everywhere I go these days. LOL

 

So you are a local M'sian I supposed?

[Levis]

11 hours ago, radiusulnar said:

 

I think I will investigate classes. Hopefully can use Skills Future to pay for them.

 

@radiusulnar, think got leh. PA does offers conversational Malay classes and can fund using SkillsFuture.

 

Reminder to SG folks that we have $500 credit expiring by year end. No spend means donation back to SG Govt. Don't waste your credit ya.

[ToughGuy]

31 minutes ago, Levis said:

 

@ToughGuy, any good resources for noobs like me to learn Bahasa Melayu to recommend? Learning languages has never been my forte in the past. Tried to learn French once in school but almost failed. Arrgghh!!! That's when I know I've no flair in languages. I rely on Google Translate everywhere I go these days. LOL

 

So you are a local M'sian I supposed?

Yes...local M'sian Cina😂😂

 

Unfortunately I dunno any center or resources to learn BM

 

You may come over, we makan sambil belajar BM😂😂😂

Edited July 21, 2025 by ToughGuy

[Levis]

21 hours ago, Coolbriz said:

Hey Levis and guys, thanks for starting this thread and sharing all your valuable insights, experiences and thoughts. 
 

I have also considered retiring in JB. In fact, the reason why I wasn’t executing it is because my mom isn’t keen with the idea. I need to move with her to JB in order to rent out my house for the rental income. She has friends and relatives here so naturally she is reluctant to make such drastic move. I can totally understand. So I got to hold my thoughts for now. 
 

I once met a Sg Malay couple who owns a unit at R&F in JB and they shared that they got “disturbed” by the Malaysian custom for staying too long in JB and so they had no choice but go back to sg and stay with their kids over the weekend every week. I didn’t have the chance to probe further to find out what could be the possible cause. Yet, I have heard from friend’s friend who has been staying in JB for years only transiting back to sg once a month just to get the passport chopped without any issue. Seems like it depends on luck and how you put across the reason when asked. I’m not sure. 
 

mm2H used to set ridiculous criteria for applicants. They have lowered the requirement recently but yes you still got to own a property in Malaysia as one of the criteria. I don’t really like the idea of owning a property in Malaysia and locking my fund there as a result. 
 

Even choosing a place in JB can be a challenge as the really convenient places (closer to SG) might get very expensive especially with the completion of the RTS. Rental price might shoot up real high. So there are suggestions of venturing further in, ie Iskandar, Mount Austin, etc. But I am not sure if I can get used to staying in a place so deep in without the convenience of getting to a nearby mall or supermarket.
 

I have heard about the retirement village as well but I think the monthly cost is still pretty high. Well, I guess there is still room to explore further. I think there is also a need to try out the lifestyle in Malaysia by staying in a unit in JB/KL/PEN for a few months before I could really tell if it’s suitable for me. What do you guys think?

 

@Coolbriz, you are welcome and thanks for sharing your situation. I think my situation is somewhat similar to yours too. My mum has her entire life's social and family network in SG and it would be cruel and to a great extent, ridiculous to ask her to uproot her life for the sake of saving some money. Nonetheless, it doesn't stop us from planning our post-retirement life actively. Afterall, once they are gone, the main knots that tie us would be somewhat released and we could be free to do what we wanted.

 

On the CIQ issue, @cutejack had shared about his sister's situation in an earlier post, which I pasted below. I was genuinely surprised that she hasn't got an issue too. So based on your sharing on the SG Malay couple, I suspect it may be a variety of factors rather than luck, which may be one of them too. I think...... maybe has to do with the passenger's age, frequency of in-out, M'sian property ownership, enter/exit by private vehicle or manual/autogate and do some extent on how you dress and etc. All could be part of the factors to reject entry. I think (please take my opinion with a pinch of salt) they are probably trying to decipher whether you are going to M'sia to seek employment or to spend $$. I am sure they would welcome you in the latter scenario. So make yourself look like that. LOL.

 

Agree with your take on MM2H. Even with the revised Plat/Gold/Silver plans, the property purchase (likely RM1mil based on our preferred state), is still a substantial investment to lock in M'sia. But if you can find property around RM1mil around JBCC, it may still be worthwhile to consider. I think there are still new projects besides R&F. Then again, it's in some sense a bit of a gamble on the value RTS would bring.

 

Ya, true that it's good to test-run the areas which you want to consider. That's why I've been heading to the different KL's residential areas to see if I like the neighbourhoods, the public infra, the connectivity within the neighbourhood, KL city and to KLIA, proximity to nature / good food / etc. Have you test-drive some KL/JB's towns before? How about sharing?

 

On 7/15/2025 at 7:43 AM, cutejack said:

Hi,Levis,

 

Glad to hear that u r retiring soon or planning to do so. As we r singles n unmarried, retirement should be in card anytime soon once u reach 40s as we have less commitments n most of us are holding high position n I believe one should have enough savings to retire happily.

OK, my late father is a Malaysian n we have a family house in jb. My siblings n myself are sporeans and my sister has retired n staying in jb. She travel to spore every month to get her passport endorsed. 

It doesn't matter whether one owns a property or renting a place in jb coz we all knew that rent is much much cheaper in jb. 

I suggest/ my experience/ my point of view is retiring in jb is a very good idea coz,

1) nearer to spore n u could easily travel here in case situation or family needs u.

2) lower n cheaper expenses n can sustain yr savings throughout your lifetime. 

3) u may do gardening, gym, window shopping at less crowded shopping malls, thus time flies n u don't feel bored.

 

All these need to be done while u maintain yr property in spore to rent the rooms for extra passive income. Remember to lock n spare a room for yrself incase u need to come back n u have a place to stay in spore. Do not rent the whole flat as u couldn't enter the premises but u may rent room by room, so that u could still sleep in the living area incase u r back to run errands. 

To me , retiring in jb is a very good idea especially now with self check in passports,  no officers would question u regarding yr frequent travel to n fro jb. In fact I'm doing this quiet often too but still not retired yet. Haha

All the best n feel free to pm me should u need any info on this. Best regards. Cutejack aka Jeff.

 

[Levis]

6 minutes ago, ToughGuy said:

Yes...local M'sian Cina😂😂

 

Unfortunately I dunno any center or resources to learn BM

 

You may come over, we makan sambil belajar BM😂😂😂

 

@ToughGuy, on! I go to KL quite often. Next time go there will jio you. You can teach me some BM while makan-ing.

[ToughGuy]

6 minutes ago, Levis said:

 

@ToughGuy, on! I go to KL quite often. Next time go there will jio you. You can teach me some BM while makan-ing.

Boleh ...boleh...tak der masalah 

[Levis]

 

Does this deter your JB dream?

[cutejack]

55 minutes ago, Levis said:

 

Does this deter your JB dream?

If u r staying in for good, this is not relevant for u la..hahaahaha

This one for those who go jb just to buy rotiboy ...cheapo...they deserve it lor for creating crowd at the checkpoint. Kekeke

Edited July 21, 2025 by cutejack

[discreetinside]

On 7/20/2025 at 9:31 PM, auscent said:

 

Preparation

: I think it is best to start some activities (eg: volunteer) before full time retirement. Then smoother transition rather than anxiety inducing. Kuala Lumpur has larger groups of poor. For beginners, soup kitchen is good start. I have done all sorts.

 

Kuala Lumpur suburbs

: I prefer suburbs close to KL centre (no Puchong), less touristy (no BBintang), not to crowded (no Damansara/ Cheras/ no Bangsar Sth), middle class. My pick is Bangsar. Ive stayed/ travelled to these in my recce.

 

 

 

 

 

 

On 7/20/2025 at 9:42 PM, ToughGuy said:

Bangsa, kawasan orang have2 

 

KL center??..concrete, mall, expensive restaurant, jam kao2....no-no for me

 

I hate dense crowded place...oxygen is low, BO is high..eg Singapore, KLCC, Midvalley Megamall 😂😂😂

You need to know there's 2 part of Damansara. The KL (it refer to as Federal Territory of KL) part of Damansara which is Bukit Damansara/Damansara Heights are more akin to Bangsar while the more crowded of Damansara are on Selangor side

[ToughGuy]

1 hour ago, discreetinside said:

 

You need to know there's 2 part of Damansara. The KL (it refer to as Federal Territory of KL) part of Damansara which is Bukit Damansara/Damansara Heights are more akin to Bangsar while the more crowded of Damansara are on Selangor side

For me, unless work in KL, no other benefit to stay in KL.

 

Maybe bcos I grew up in KL, shifted out from KL many years ago... Maybe one day, dapat projek juta², I may shift back to KL 

[Levis]

14 hours ago, discreetinside said:

 

You need to know there's 2 part of Damansara. The KL (it refer to as Federal Territory of KL) part of Damansara which is Bukit Damansara/Damansara Heights are more akin to Bangsar while the more crowded of Damansara are on Selangor side

 

@discreetinside, thanks for highlighting. I was actually referring to Bukit Damansara / Damansara Heights, north of Bangsar. I know the other Damansara is nearer to Subang side, which I've not explored the area. Any sharing on how the place is like for the benefits of the readers in this thread?

[Levis]

12 hours ago, ToughGuy said:

For me, unless work in KL, no other benefit to stay in KL.

 

Maybe bcos I grew up in KL, shifted out from KL many years ago... Maybe one day, dapat projek juta², I may shift back to KL 

 

@ToughGuy, I feel you. Then again, staying at a location is really an individual preference. The outskirts have their allure too. Those residential areas which only have single-storey houses are so quiet at night. For guys like me which are used to the buzz, not so used to. Maybe when I am older, I may prefer those areas. LOL

[ToughGuy]

2 minutes ago, Levis said:

 

@ToughGuy, I feel you. Then again, staying at a location is really an individual preference. The outskirts have their allure too. Those residential areas which only have single-storey houses are so quiet at night. For guys like me which are used to the buzz, not so used to. Maybe when I am older, I may prefer those areas. LOL

Boleh paham nape nak begitu 😂😂😂

[Steve5380]

3 hours ago, ToughGuy said:

Boleh paham nape nak begitu 😂😂😂

 

When we retire relatively young,  we still seek the buzz.  I remember after retirement traveling all over S.E. Asia.  But as we age, the place itself loses some importance except for its cost of living if we are not wealthy.  For old folks what matters is our HOME and the nearby neighborhood. If we already are living in a relatively decent place, this interest in finding the "ideal" retirement place loses its importance.   I have been living for 48 years in my home, and I have no plans to live anywhere else.  After I lost my bf and my sister I am now living alone, but this is not a problem.  I plan to stay here until the end,  with minimum assistance if needed.  NO retirement home!  Retirement from work can be a blessing, but to move into a retirement home is to retire... from life!

 

If I change my mind and still want "some buzz",  I also would like a place like KL in Malaysia or BKK in Thailand.  Preferable KL, with easy life and close to other Asian cities. I could also retire to Singapore,  but this place is too crowded,  with some totalitarian ruling that goes against my liking, and I can live in a place less "perfect",  with some dirt in the streets and some democratic freedoms.  

[auscent]

3 hours ago, Levis said:

 

@discreetinside, thanks for highlighting. I was actually referring to Bukit Damansara / Damansara Heights, north of Bangsar. I know the other Damansara is nearer to Subang side, which I've not explored the area. Any sharing on how the place is like for the benefits of the readers in this thread?

In KL, one of my considerations is less travel

: traffic can be a bit heavy and will only increase. Damansara area nearer to Bangsar still ok

 

Generally, google's Top 10/20 richest suburbs q accurate. Pending on ur funds and comfort.

High net worth -- TTDI, Bangsar, DPC, Setia Alam, Mt Kiara
Upper middle class -- Hartamas, Solaris, Sentral, Pusat Bandar Damansara

For me, I narrow around high/ upper. Not because of status. But staying these places help to ease transition from Sg to elsewhere.

[radiusulnar]

8 hours ago, auscent said:

narrow around high/ upper.

 

What about for regular heartland folks? What area to aim for?

[Levis]

20 hours ago, auscent said:

In KL, one of my considerations is less travel

: traffic can be a bit heavy and will only increase. Damansara area nearer to Bangsar still ok

 

Generally, google's Top 10/20 richest suburbs q accurate. Pending on ur funds and comfort.

High net worth -- TTDI, Bangsar, DPC, Setia Alam, Mt Kiara
Upper middle class -- Hartamas, Solaris, Sentral, Pusat Bandar Damansara

For me, I narrow around high/ upper. Not because of status. But staying these places help to ease transition from Sg to elsewhere.

 

 

@auscent, actually if you want good connectivity to-and-fro in KL area, I thought these areas are good :

 

- Areas near KL Sentral (because it's KLIA Ekspres terminal station, ETS stop and it's also an interchange station for many rail lines)
- Bangsar South/Mid Valley/Kerinchi (close proximity to KL Sentral)
- B.Bintang/Pudu (because near Hang Tuah station which is the interchange station for Monorail & LRT lines. In addition, it's pretty near TBS for long-distance coaches back to SG or other M'sian cities.)

 

Precincts like Mt. Kiara, Hartamas, Solaris or even Bandar Damanasara, I feel need to drive or Grab. Transport options restrictive.

 

The consideration above is based on me taking public transport as I'm unlikely to get my own vehicle there. Grab is a also a good option but I find their public transport pretty reliable these days compared to a decade ago. Especially their MRT lines - quite comfy and comparable to SG's MRT.

[Levis]

12 hours ago, radiusulnar said:

 

What about for regular heartland folks? What area to aim for?

 

@radiusulnar, I suspect it's areas like Puchong, Seri Kembangan, Cheras, Ampang, Kepong, Desapark and etc are residential areas where most M40s (middle-income groups) are at.

[Levis]

 

Sharing an interesting talk show to compare between JB, KL/SGR & PEN. Though in Mandarin, there's Eng subs. If you have a little more than 30 mins to spare, it's a good perspective from these young Malaysians.

 

Enjoy!

[singalion]

On 7/21/2025 at 7:41 PM, Levis said:

 

@ToughGuy, any good resources for noobs like me to learn Bahasa Melayu to recommend? Learning languages has never been my forte in the past. Tried to learn French once in school but almost failed. Arrgghh!!! That's when I know I've no flair in languages. I rely on Google Translate everywhere I go these days. LOL

 

So you are a local M'sian I supposed?

 

Learning basic Malay is very easy. Grammar is like Chinese but you can read it as it's in Latin characters. 

 

I learned basic Malay myself, starting with a simple language book and then just chit chat with locals, even on apps. 

 

Add 2 - 3 new words per day/ week in one year you will be quite good already. 

 

Tell others not to use slang and abbreviations (singkatan). 

 

You just need to force yourself to talk Malay. 

Modern Malay is quite anglisised also:

Steysen, seksyen, tren, bas, mesej...

 

You can't compare Malay with French, latter's difficulty is 10 times higher. 

 

 

[egal]

why choose those expensive cities

[mate69]

Teluk Intan

Kampar

 

[egal]

whats the attraction of teluk intan

 

i know kampar has chicken biscuits, lol

[singalion]

On 7/22/2025 at 7:37 PM, ToughGuy said:

Boleh paham nape nak begitu 😂😂😂

 

Lebih baik untuk guna Faham di Bahasa Melayu! 

 

Paham = Bahasa pasar

 

Nape = Apa

 

Nak = hendak, or mahu/ ingin

 

 

Learn proper Malay first before going into slang. 

 

Kamu ada tinggal di Negeri Terenganu sebelumnya?

 

 

Edited July 30, 2025 by singalion

[Steve5380]

4 hours ago, singalion said:

 

Lebih baik untuk guna Faham di Bahasa Melayu! 

 

Paham = Bahasa pasar

 

Nape = Apa

 

Nak = hendak, or mahu/ ingin

 

 

Learn proper Malay first before going into slang. 

 

Kamu ada tinggal di Negara Terenganu sebelumnya?

 

 

 

Leute sprechen Sprachen nicht richtig? Das ist nicht so ungewöhnlich.

[ToughGuy]

6 hours ago, singalion said:

 

Lebih baik untuk guna Faham di Bahasa Melayu! 

 

Paham = Bahasa pasar

 

Nape = Apa

 

Nak = hendak, or mahu/ ingin

 

 

Learn proper Malay first before going into slang. 

 

Kamu ada tinggal di Negara Terenganu sebelumnya?

 

 

...kena pandai pakai otak.

 

Kalo berbahasa lisan atau chat, kena bahasa lisan (pasar) ...lagipun kamu bukan nak masuk sek.

 

Rata² Cina yg pandai tulis , x fasih tutur ...bila tutur dgn polis, terus gagap🤦🤦🤦

 

nak pandai tulis, kan ade Google translator ???...

 

Tuhan bagi otak...jgn sia2 aper yg Tuhan bagi.

 

Terengganu BUKAN Negara...ia satu-satunya Negeri dlm NEGARA M'sia.

 

Nak tunjuk pandai, kena banyak buat homework ...jgn malukan atau memperbodohkan bangsa, keluarga dan diri.😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂

 

Saya budak KL...anak jati M'sia...sek kebangsaan sejak Thn 1😂😂😂😂

Edited July 30, 2025 by ToughGuy

[TigerYam]

On 7/20/2025 at 8:46 PM, Levis said:

 

@auscent, thanks for sharing! Volunteerism is great. Something that I would want to take up in near future too. What are the social causes that you care for besides helping the refugees you mentioned earlier? What are some of the charitable organisations that you think are worthy to work with? I think some of us, including myself would want to explore that eventually when we go over. Good to do some homework 1st.

 

Another thing I wanted to check-in with you is whether you have tried staying in the various neighbourhoods and have shortlisted which areas you would likely settle in? I've tried staying at BB, Pudu, Cheras, Jalan Ampang, Bangsar South, etc. All not bad. But I find BB most exciting and probably with the most infra that would meet my city-life needs and lots of famous food around that area. Would want to try Damasara, Desa Park or even Kepong (because it's near FRIM). Any sharing on the neighbourhoods that are good?

 

I also like the idea of driving around M'sia too. There are really a lot of nice and not as touristy areas worth visiting (ie. East Coast area).

 

Malaysia NGO welcome you as a volunteer in their program. Not like Singapore, they want young and rich one. It is my real life experience in Singapore. 

 

Kuala Lumpur is the Best Place to do charity and volunteering. Age and gender does not matter. Beside KL, Ipoh is the second best place too.

 

If you want to know more about volunteering and charity, you can pm me privately. Age, race and gender does not matter, as long as youvare able to help out.

Not like Singapore, NGO wants young and rich one.

 

Driving in Malaysia is a great experience.  You need a Malaysian friend to accompany because some towns don't speak English, and they have their own culture and religion.

 

BB area are good for gays...haha. I think the Best area that you can try are Kepong, Cheras (more than 5km), Selayang, Serdang,  Kajang and Balakong. These area, you can get nice food, not so gay, decent people around and you can focus more on your volunteering work.

 

[ToughGuy]

16 minutes ago, TigerYam said:

 

Malaysia NGO welcome you as a volunteer in their program. Not like Singapore, they want young and rich one. It is my real life experience in Singapore. 

 

Kuala Lumpur is the Best Place to do charity and volunteering. Age and gender does not matter. Beside KL, Ipoh is the second best place too.

 

If you want to know more about volunteering and charity, you can pm me privately. Age, race and gender does not matter, as long as youvare able to help out.

Not like Singapore, NGO wants young and rich one.

 

Driving in Malaysia is a great experience.  You need a Malaysian friend to accompany because some towns don't speak English, and they have their own culture and religion.

 

BB area are good for gays...haha. I think the Best area that you can try are Kepong, Cheras (more than 5km), Selayang, Serdang,  Kajang and Balakong. These area, you can get nice food, not so gay, decent people around and you can focus more on your volunteering work.

 

If you like little congestion, cheap and good food , check out Taiping... There is EtS station... historical Town... Plenty to explore. ..nice lake for morning, evening walk

 

Short drive to Kuala Sepetang, cheap seafood...

 

 

 

One of the best Kuih talam in hawker centre next to the main wet market....apam balik with grated coconut flakes (A MUST try)

 

Taiping is located between Ipoh and Penang.

Edited July 30, 2025 by ToughGuy

[justin1982]

Regardless whichever city going to be settled down for the life of retirement, I would still preferred continue to work (but in more carefree & flexibility arrangements), to let both mental & body act actively. Of course, there is no more finance responsibility and liability.

Secondly, spend quality time with the loved ones & travel together by then. 

[TigerYam]

2 hours ago, ToughGuy said:

If you like little congestion, cheap and good food , check out Taiping... There is EtS station... historical Town... Plenty to explore. ..nice lake for morning, evening walk

 

Short drive to Kuala Sepetang, cheap seafood...

 

 

 

One of the best Kuih talam in hawker centre next to the main wet market....apam balik with grated coconut flakes (A MUST try)

 

Taiping is located between Ipoh and Penang.

Yes. @ToughGuy you are right.

I love Taiping. I hope Singapore people better don't go Taiping to spoil the market.

 

Taiping has a lot of good food and nice people around.

[ToughGuy]

1 hour ago, TigerYam said:

Yes. @ToughGuy you are right.

I love Taiping. I hope Singapore people better don't go Taiping to spoil the market.

 

Taiping has a lot of good food and nice people around.

Hope to find a farm house and reside there

[singalion]

17 hours ago, ToughGuy said:

...kena pandai pakai otak.

 

Kalo berbahasa lisan atau chat, kena bahasa lisan (pasar) ...lagipun kamu bukan nak masuk sek.

 

Rata² Cina yg pandai tulis , x fasih tutur ...bila tutur dgn polis, terus gagap🤦🤦🤦

 

nak pandai tulis, kan ade Google translator ???...

 

Tuhan bagi otak...jgn sia2 aper yg Tuhan bagi.

 

Terengganu BUKAN Negara...ia satu-satunya Negeri dlm NEGARA M'sia.

 

Nak tunjuk pandai, kena banyak buat homework ...jgn malukan atau memperbodohkan bangsa, keluarga dan diri.😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂

 

Saya budak KL...anak jati M'sia...sek kebangsaan sejak Thn 1😂😂😂😂

 

Maaf, betul saya salah, Terrenganu sedang Negeri di Negara Malaysia. 

 

Bila saya menulis post saya kemarin, sudah lambat selepas malam jam 1 ....

 

Tetapi untuk bermula belajar Bahasa melayu baik, lebih baik tahu Bahasa Melayu rasmi dahulu....

 

Mohon maaf jika Bahasa Melayu saya tidak sempurna tetapi saya belajar Bahasa Melayu sendiri dan tidak belajar Bahasa itu di sekola! 

 

 

 

Edited July 30, 2025 by singalion

[singalion]

17 hours ago, ToughGuy said:

If you like little congestion, cheap and good food , check out Taiping... There is EtS station... historical Town... Plenty to explore. ..nice lake for morning, evening walk

 

Short drive to Kuala Sepetang, cheap seafood...

 

 

 

One of the best Kuih talam in hawker centre next to the main wet market....apam balik with grated coconut flakes (A MUST try)

 

Taiping is located between Ipoh and Penang.

 

14 hours ago, TigerYam said:

Yes. @ToughGuy you are right.

I love Taiping. I hope Singapore people better don't go Taiping to spoil the market.

 

Taiping has a lot of good food and nice people around.

 

12 hours ago, ToughGuy said:

Hope to find a farm house and reside there

 

But there might be different interests and attitudes. 

 

I assume a Singaporean is more used to a true city life and maybe not so keen to retire in a kampung setting. 

 

For a budak Malaysia that might be just the opposite. 

 

Probably out of this reason a Singaporean would prefer to retire in a bigger city. 

 

You also need to factor in that a,Singaporean may need to return to Singapore on times. 

Being located in Taiping that might be a hassle (even if there is an ETS station) to get to Singapore. 

 

Take Tampin to KL with the ETS only has 2 trains per day and needs 2 hours. 

ETS are not real high speed trains running at 250km per hour like in other countries... 

 

 

[auscent]

22 hours ago, TigerYam said:

 

Malaysia NGO welcome you as a volunteer in their program. Not like Singapore, they want young and rich one. It is my real life experience in Singapore. 

 

Kuala Lumpur is the Best Place to do charity and volunteering. Age and gender does not matter. Beside KL, Ipoh is the second best place too.

 

If you want to know more about volunteering and charity, you can pm me privately. Age, race and gender does not matter, as long as youvare able to help out.

Not like Singapore, NGO wants young and rich one.

 

Driving in Malaysia is a great experience.  You need a Malaysian friend to accompany because some towns don't speak English, and they have their own culture and religion.

 

BB area are good for gays...haha. I think the Best area that you can try are Kepong, Cheras (more than 5km), Selayang, Serdang,  Kajang and Balakong. These area, you can get nice food, not so gay, decent people around and you can focus more on your volunteering work.

 

Thanks bro.

Volunteer work can be excellent determinant of retirement joy.

I think depends. Luckily most NGOs i selected in Sg so far take in near retirees like me.

[ToughGuy]

6 hours ago, singalion said:

 

 

 

But there might be different interests and attitudes. 

 

I assume a Singaporean is more used to a true city life and maybe not so keen to retire in a kampung setting. 

 

For a budak Malaysia that might be just the opposite. 

 

Probably out of this reason a Singaporean would prefer to retire in a bigger city. 

 

You also need to factor in that a,Singaporean may need to return to Singapore on times. 

Being located in Taiping that might be a hassle (even if there is an ETS station) to get to Singapore. 

 

Take Tampin to KL with the ETS only has 2 trains per day and needs 2 hours. 

ETS are not real high speed trains running at 250km per hour like in other countries... 

 

 

No need to generalize

 

Some like coffee, some like tea.

 

"Assume only makes ass-out-of-you-not-me"😂😂😂

[ToughGuy]

6 hours ago, singalion said:

 

Maaf, betul saya salah, Terrenganu sedang Negeri di Negara Malaysia. 

 

Bila saya menulis post saya kemarin, sudah lambat selepas malam jam 1 ....

 

Tetapi untuk bermula belajar Bahasa melayu baik, lebih baik tahu Bahasa Melayu rasmi dahulu....

 

Mohon maaf jika Bahasa Melayu saya tidak sempurna tetapi saya belajar Bahasa Melayu sendiri dan tidak belajar Bahasa itu di sekola! 

 

 

 

Alasan buruk.. Lain kali kalo dah letih penat jgn nak pandai-pandai nak komen..kan dah malu sbb memperbodohkan diri?

 

Samada belajar bahasa secara rasmi Tulin ada tak, terpulang kepada murid dan keperluan dia. 

 

Mcm kamu ni, karang komen pun x ikut cara rasmi Tulin tapi nak rekomen orang lain jgn belajar bahasa lisan(tutur)... cukup lar, jgn malukan diri, bangsa dan keluarga lagi😂😂😂

 

End crita

[TigerYam]

11 hours ago, singalion said:

But there might be different interests and attitudes. 

 

I assume a Singaporean is more used to a true city life and maybe not so keen to retire in a kampung setting. 

 

For a budak Malaysia that might be just the opposite. 

 

Probably out of this reason a Singaporean would prefer to retire in a bigger city. 

 

You also need to factor in that a,Singaporean may need to return to Singapore on times. 

Being located in Taiping that might be a hassle (even if there is an ETS station) to get to Singapore. 

 

Take Tampin to KL with the ETS only has 2 trains per day and needs 2 hours. 

ETS are not real high speed trains running at 250km per hour like in other countries...

 

I agree, ETS is not a high speed train. It takes long hours travel fro. KL to Taiping. 

 

I won't like to waste time for traveling. Going to Taiping is easier by flight and Grab. Take a flight from Sg to Ipoh, then take a Grab from airport to Taiping city. 

 

Most city people prefer kampong life for retirement . I think you are too young for kampong life. Haha....