Why I Live in JB, Malaysia While Earning Singaporean Dollars
Hi, I'm Benjamin Yang, and this video discusses why I choose to live in Johor Bahru (JB), Malaysia, while earning Singaporean dollars. These are two distinct countries, and the financial advantages are significant. I'll cover five key reasons and provide a link in the description for a sensitive sixth reason.
Stronger Singaporean Currency
Currency Advantage
The first reason is the strength of the Singaporean dollar (SGD) compared to the Malaysian Ringgit (MYR). At the time of this video, one SGD equals approximately 3.52 MYR. The larger this difference, the more I benefit. I can earn more and spend less by leveraging the exchange rate.
Investments in Strong Currencies
Furthermore, I invest in US dollar-denominated instruments and Bitcoin. These, along with the SGD, have appreciated against the MYR over time. By separating my income and investments (in stronger currencies) from my expenses (in MYR), I create a financial buffer for future security and long-term savings.
Lower Cost of Living in Malaysia
Limited Savings for Short Visits
Living in JB allows me to fully capitalize on Malaysia's lower cost of living. While those living in Singapore may make shopping trips to JB, their savings are limited.
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Singapore requires cars to have fuel tanks at least three-quarters full when leaving the country.
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Malaysian authorities require Singaporean drivers to purchase the most expensive grade of petrol (RON 97).
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There are physical limitations on how much one can carry across the border via public transport.
Tax Exemptions and Restrictions
If staying in JB for less than 48 hours, only the first $100 worth of goods are tax-exempt upon return to Singapore. This increases to $500 for stays longer than 48 hours. However, physical carrying constraints remain an issue for those using public transport. Certain items, such as meat (cooked or raw) also cannot be brought into Singapore.
Travel Opportunities in Malaysia
Exploring Diverse States and Cities
Malaysia is significantly larger than Singapore and offers diverse states and cities to explore. Living in JB makes spontaneous trips easy. I can simply hop in my car and go.
Planning and Border Crossing Challenges
In contrast, travelling from Singapore involves much more planning due to the need to cross the Causeway. This includes taking leave from work, exchanging currency, and navigating potentially heavy traffic at the border checkpoints, which are among the busiest in the world. Border crossing can be time consuming and increases the risk of accidents.
Affordable Property Ownership
Unaffordable Singapore Properties
Private properties in Singapore are unaffordable for me. In JB, I can acquire a property with significantly more space.
Enhanced Quality of Life
This allows me to enjoy a higher quality of life, including space for rest, creative projects, and hosting friends from Singapore exploring Malaysia.
Proximity to Singapore
Maintaining Ties
I still have ties to Singapore and need to return periodically for both professional and personal reasons.
Convenient Travel
Living in JB allows for convenient travel to Singapore. I can easily make day trips, going to Singapore and returning to JB on the same day. This isn't possible from further locations in Malaysia, such as Melaka or Penang, which require more extensive planning. Being in JB allows for spontaneous trips to Singapore.
Sensitive Reason (Link in Description)
The final reason is sensitive and cannot be discussed openly here. Please refer to the link in the video description for more information.