My Two-Year Experience Living in Malaysia
After nearly two years of living in Malaysia, I want to share my experiences, impressions, advantages, and disadvantages of living here. Initially, I hesitated to share, feeling I hadn't experienced enough to offer valuable insights. Now, after exploring the country extensively, I feel ready to provide a balanced perspective.
Initial Impressions of Malaysia
Before arriving in Malaysia, my impression was primarily shaped by interactions with AirAsia tourists and Malaysian students in Taiwan. I thought Malaysia was a country with a large Chinese population where everyone spoke Chinese. However, upon arrival, I quickly realized that Malaysia is a truly multicultural nation, comprised of Malaysians, Indians, and Chinese, with the Chinese population actually being a minority (around 20%). I also had no prior travel experience to Malaysia, with most Taiwanese travelers choosing Thailand and Vietnam for their initial Southeast Asia experiences.
Initially, I packed a lot of unnecessary items, assuming it would be drastically different from Taiwan. I realized later that this was naive, because most common goods are readily available. The enduring Chinese culture makes adapting relatively easy for people from Taiwan.
Advantages of Living in Malaysia
Delicious and Familiar Food
One of the biggest advantages is the food. The Chinese cuisine here is very similar to Taiwanese tastes. Dishes like Fujian noodles and pork bone soup are easily found. I even find some local snacks to be more authentic and delicious than their Taiwanese counterparts. Whenever friends or family visit from Taiwan, I always take them to try the local snacks. Upon returning to Malaysia after visiting Taiwan, I immediately crave the local desserts.
Favorable Weather
I also appreciate the weather in Malaysia. I enjoy the hot, sunny weather. While it does rain, it is usually in short, heavy bursts rather than the prolonged rainy seasons experienced in Taiwan.
Furthermore, as an allergy sufferer, I have found the Malaysian climate to be incredibly beneficial. My nasal allergies, which plagued me for over 30 years in Taiwan, have significantly improved since moving here. The fresh air seems to have cured my allergies.
International City and Travel Opportunities
Malaysia is a very international city. Many major international brands are present, some of which aren't even available in Taiwan. The presence of renowned five-star hotels, such as Four Seasons, Ritz-Carlton, and St. Regis, which are not yet established in Taiwan, provides unique experience opportunities.
Malaysia's location also offers excellent travel opportunities. With numerous islands, like Le Lang Island and Sabah, easily accessible with a short flight from Kuala Lumpur, there are many options for vacations.
Friendly People and Language Skills
Malaysians are generally friendly, especially towards Taiwanese people. Grab drivers and other locals are often eager to chat and interact.
The multilingualism in Malaysia is also impressive. Many locals are fluent in at least three languages (Malay, English, and Chinese), with some also speaking dialects like Fujianese and Cantonese. This widespread language proficiency is admirable and noticeable even among Grab drivers and restaurant staff.
Disadvantages of Living in Malaysia
Traffic Congestion and Poor Public Transportation
The biggest drawback is the traffic congestion. Locals and foreigners alike often complain about the heavy traffic, which can turn a 10-minute trip into an hour-long ordeal.
This is compounded by the poorly planned public transportation system. Different lines are managed by different manufacturers, requiring passengers to walk long distances outside stations to transfer between lines. This makes public transportation less convenient and explains why many people prefer to drive, despite the parking inconveniences.
Pedestrian Unfriendliness
Another issue is the lack of consideration for pedestrians. Crossing the road can be challenging, with long wait times for pedestrian signals followed by short crossing times. This requires pedestrians to be assertive and, sometimes, take calculated risks.
Safety Concerns
Many people inquire about the safety of Malaysia. While safety is a concern in any country, I feel generally safe in Kuala Lumpur and Petaling Jaya. As most people drive, there are fewer pedestrians, and being cautious when out and about is important.
Quick Q&A
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Advantage: Comfortable climate and environment.
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Disadvantage: Terrible traffic.
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Advantage: Opportunity for self-improvement.
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Disadvantage: Missing out on winter fashion.
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Advantage: Diverse culture.
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Disadvantage: Negative way of thinking.
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Advantage: Friendly people.
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