FOREIGNER CONSIDERS MOVING TO S’PORE OR M’SIA, SAYS M’SIANS FRIENDLIER THAN S’POREANS

Been to Singapore and Malaysia, I prefer to live in Malaysia much more than Singapore

I am Chinese living in London. I have been looking to relocate to South East Asia, and both Singapore and Malaysia are on top of the list.

I have spent some time in both countries, I prefer to live in Malaysia much more than in Singapore. True, Singapore is a more developed country and is perceived to be very safe.

However, if this is what I want I would stay in London, Singapore has not reached the same level of development as London yet.

My wife has worked at Goldman Sachs in Singapore for three years. We all agree Malaysia is where we would actually love to live.

1, Cost of living is much more affordable than in Singapore, this is a very big factor

2, Malaysian are much more friendly than Singaporeans

3, Pace of life is slower in Malaysia, Singapore is too hectic for me

4, Singapore is too small, and there is more to do in Malaysia and more variety

5, I can actually own a car in Malaysia, and this is almost impossible in Singapore

I am currently looking to apply for a residence permit to live in Malaysia, which is a big obstacle for me. However, both I and my wife have made up our minds to relocate to Malaysia probably in 2024.

What do Malaysian think of Singapore?

I grew up in a village in mainland China and lived there for 18 years. I know what corruption and poverty looks like FYI.

Netizens’ comments

1. Been to Singapore to study + work. You are right.
   However, many Malaysians cross over to work in Singapore simply because the currency much more powerful.
   If $$ is no issue for you, anywhere is paradise really.
2. I think Malaysia is better if you’re already rich – you probably have more upward mobility in Singapore relative to Malaysia.
   I’m a foreigner that’s visited both places extensively and I prefer Malaysia because I’ve already acquired capital.
   If I were starting a career in the region though I’d pick Singapore any day.
3. If you’ve big salary here in Malaysia, absolutely. But unfortunately, many Malaysians go to work in Singapore because they don’t have big salary.