Not to mention Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia is indeed a country with a very high cost-performance ratio for living and working. Chinese is almost universally spoken in Malaysia. Both Kuala Lumpur and Penang have a large number of Chinese families raising children and attending school. In terms of international schools, I personally believe Malaysia's standards are higher than those of Thailand and Vietnam.

Regarding the cost of living, many Singaporeans drive or take public transportation to Johor Bahru to eat out every week. During Chinese New Year, many Singaporeans choose to spend the holiday in Johor Bahru. Many properties in Johor Bahru are owned by Singaporeans. The relationship between Johor Bahru and Singapore is like Kunshan and Shanghai, or Yanjiao and Beijing.

Last year, I recommended many friends around me to go to Vietnam. Of course, now I still think Vietnam is better for starting a business (cryptocurrency field). But if it's just for living, Malaysia offers a very high cost-performance ratio. Those with more funds can live in Kuala Lumpur, those wanting to save can choose Penang, and those who frequently travel to Singapore can consider Johor Bahru. If you want to live by the sea, Malacca is a good choice.

Southeast Asian cuisine and fruits are not something to worry about. Malaysia and Singapore both have a large Chinese population, many Chinese restaurants, and lots of barbecue. Walking in major Malaysian cities feels very similar to being in China. Cars in Malaysia are cheap, fuel is inexpensive, taxis are affordable, housing costs are low, and labor is also cheap.

Malaysian durians are unparalleled. If you're a durian lover, you can go to the mountains to pick them yourself. Buying durians on the mountain offers great flavor and freshness. Almost all durians available in China can be found in Malaysia, and they are not expensive. Malaysia also has a特色娘惹菜系 (Peranakan cuisine). Many of Malaysia's Indian and Pakistani friends are also around, so Indian food is everywhere, especially those eating while squatting on the ground—most of them are Pakistani migrant workers.

Malaysia's healthcare system is also good. With proper insurance, you can go to international or private hospitals. Medical checkups are very affordable, and many Singaporeans specifically go to Malaysia for health exams.

I roughly calculated that a family of three can live comfortably in Kuala Lumpur with about $6,000 USD per month. Living in an apartment in KLCC, hiring a maid, and sending children to school is no problem. If you want to save some money, $4,000 USD is enough if you don't live in the city center and don't hire help.

Living in Penang can be even cheaper, with about $3,000 USD covering basic living expenses. As for Johor Bahru, I heard that the cost of living is even higher than in Kuala Lumpur. Malaysia's cost-performance ratio is truly excellent.

Of course, Malaysia has some issues. It is not an immigration country, and obtaining citizenship is very difficult. The "Second Home" program has time restrictions and is frequently amended, which can even affect previous applicants. Additionally, Malaysia's public safety is relatively not very good; it's best not to go out late at night. The country has a strong religious consciousness, so be careful not to offend religious sentiments. Other than that, there’s not much to worry about.

But these flaws do not overshadow the positives. If some friends are considering living in Southeast Asia, Malaysia is indeed a place with a very high cost-performance ratio. For those who are not fluent in English, Malaysia almost feels like there is no language barrier. I believe this is something Thailand and Vietnam cannot compare to.

I won't say much about Singapore, but Malaysia is definitely a good choice. Many friends used to spend winters in Sanya; if you have the chance, consider spending winter in Malaysia. The cost of living isn't much different, but the comfort level can be improved. $CRYPTOBURG