Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Report of what it's like to live there - 08/07/11
Personal Experiences from Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Background:
1. Was this post your first expatriate experience? If not, what other cities have you lived in as an expat?
No, Rwanda, Afghanistan, Philippines, El Salvador.
2. What is your home city/country? How long is the trip to post from there, with what connections? How easy/difficult is it to travel to this city/country?
United States.
3. How long have you lived here?
2 1/2 years. August 2009.
4. What brought you to this city (e.g. diplomatic mission, business, NGO, military, teaching, retirement, etc.)?
Government: Department of State.
Housing, Groceries & Food:
1. What is your housing like? What are typical housing sizes, locations, and commute times for expatriates?
Condominium construction is flourishing in KL. The average cost of a condo within walking distance of the petronas towers is over 1.2 million MYR. Depending on where you wish to live, condos can range in price from US$2500-10,000. Commute is via private auto, bus, cab or motorcycles. During rush hours, you must allow 15 min to 1 1/2 hour travel from 5-20 miles.
2. How would you describe the availability and cost of groceries and household supplies relative to your home country?
Shopping at a wet market for fruits, vegetables, poultry, pork, and beef is reasonable for expats. If formal grocery chains such as Carrefore, Tesco, and Cold Storage is your preference, this could be costly. If you seek specialized butchers or U.S. products, then expect to pay 150% of US prices.
3. What household or grocery items do you wish you had shipped to post?
If you have unique clothing size issues, remember this is an Asian country. If you seek U.S. products, these are also available in country, but can be costly. If you have a particular auto, maintenance can also be a factor. Thus, bring consumables, clothing, or essentials if you are not willing to compromise with the cost or local versions.
4. What typical restaurants, food delivery services, and/or takeout options are popular among expatriates?
There are small food stands, and U.S. and Worldwide fine dining are available. You can eat a decent Asian, Malay or Indian themed meal for approximately 5-16 MYR. Fine dining can range from 12-150 MYR per person. If the question is Western fast food: Pizza hut, Domino's, KFC, McDonald's, Popeye's, TGIF, Chili's, Baskin & Robbins, etc., are available.
5. What kinds of organic, vegetarian and allergy-friendly foods are available, such as organic produce, gluten-free products, meat substitutes for vegetarians, etc?
It is very difficult to define organic products in Malaysia. But substitutes for vegetarians is available.
6. Are there any unusual problems with insects or other infestations in housing?
Malaysia is a tropical country. Expect the typical infestations, but from a health concern mosquito-borne illnesses are common (Dengue & Malaria).
Daily Life:
1. How do you send and receive your letters and package mail? Are local postal facilities adequate?
I have not used the local government post office, but have used private companies such as DHL and the Diplomatic Pouch without problems.
2. What is the availability and cost of household help, and what types of help are typically employed by expatriates?
Cost depends on who you hire. Malays, Indians, Filipinos, Indonesians, and Cambodians is the norm. Other than local Malays or Indians, the cost of Visas and the requirements for physical examinations are something to consider. In general, the going monthly rate for home live-ins is US$300-600. For those commuting daily add 100-300 MYR per month. Consider cultural, religious, and communication factors before hiring.
3. What kinds of gyms or other sports/workout facilities are available? Are they expensive?
Hotels, malls and private country clubs are widely available. Parks are not typical in comparison to the U.S.
4. Are credit cards widely accepted and safe to use locally? Are ATMs common and do you recommend using them? Are they safe to use?
Transactions at the mall, hotels, or with the airlines is relatively safe and the fees for these transactions can range from 1-3 MYR. If dealing with private retailers, using credit cards or ATM can be risky.
5. What English-language religious services are available locally?
Yes. If you are a Christian (Baptist, Adventist, Anglican, Protestant, etc..), Catholic, LDS, or JW, there are congregations.
6. English-language newspapers and TV available? Cost?
Cable basic packages are 80MYR monthly. The local paper averages 3 MYR.
7. How much of the local language do you need for daily living? Are local language classes/tutors available and affordable?
You can get away without really speaking Bahasa. The majority of Malaysians, which include the Malays, Chinese, and Indians, speak multiple languages, including English. When traveling to smaller towns, challenges occur, but otherwise there is always someone to assist you.
8. Would someone with physical disabilities have difficulties living in this city?
There is not a standard. Lifts, parking lots, sidewalks, etc.,are not standardized, thus limitations vary and frustrating.
Transportation:
1. Are local buses, trams, trains or taxis safe and affordable?
Affordable yes, reliable...for the most part. Safety of private bus companies involved in motor vehicle accidents has been in the news lately. Thus, motor vehicle accidents is the concern.
2. What kind of car do you recommend bringing to post, given the terrain, availability of parts, burglary/carjacking risks, etc.? What kind of car do you advise not to bring?
People drive on the left side of the road or steering wheels are on the right. Thus, parking lot entrance fees, toll plaza's, etc... cater to this arrangement. Roads in general are paved and though pot holes can be found, the government patches the areas where tourists frequently travel and/or the major highways. Do you need 4-wheel drive? Not really. The most important factor in purchasing a car locally is the tax. Expect to pay twice the cost of a vehicle due to auto tax. If you importing a vehicle, expect the same.
Phone & Internet:
1. Is high-speed home Internet access available? How long does it typically take to install it after arrival?
Internet services and speed vary depending on where you live, what is blocking the system, and the cement buildings you live in.
2. Do you have any recommendations regarding mobile phones? Did you keep your home-country plan or use a local provider?
Buy a quad-band phone. Phones are reasonable to purchase and use the SIM card. Reloading of phones start at 10 MYR. Texting is common to save money.
Pets:
1. Are qualified veterinarians and/or good kennel services available? Do animals need to be quarantined upon entry to the country? Are there other considerations regarding pets that are particular to this country?
2. Quality pet care available (vets & kennels)?
Costly and highly suspect quality.
Employment & Volunteer Opportunities:
1. What types of jobs do most expatriate spouses/partners have? Locally based or telecommuting? Full-time or part-time? Can you comment on local salary scales?
No. Compensation, visa requirements, and starting private businesses can be a nightmare.
2. What is the typical dress code at work and in public places? Is formal dress ever required?
Dependent on whether your interactions will be with the government or with top industry representatives. Though Batik is tolerated, shirt and tie, and dresses versus pants suits, are the norm.
Health & Safety:
1. Are there personal security concerns to be aware of at this post? Please describe.
Petty crime has increased. If you live a stand alone home and do not have private security, house invasions or burglary is common. Car theft or vandalism common, and drive by motor bikes purse snatching is also a factor.
2. Are there any particular health concerns? What is the quality of available medical care? What medical conditions typically require medical evacuation?
A large disparity in the available specialist, facilities, services, cost, etc. But Glenneagles and Prince Court in KL are probably top notch. The KL government hospital can be utilized, with all the available services and specialists, but over-taxed with those from the local community.
3. What is the air quality like at post (good/moderate/bad)? Are there seasonal air quality issues? Does the air quality have an impact on health?
From June-August, harvesting or burning of crops is common resulting in the haze. Daily traffic congestion during morning and afternoon rush hour results in an increase in exhaust fumes. Rain promotes fungal growth, thus molds can be a factor in those with allergies.
4. What is the overall climate: is it extremely hot or cold, wet or dry, at any time of year, for example?
Yearly, temperature ranges from 70-90 Farenheit. Humidity is a factor to consider. Kuala Lumpur is surrounded by moutains and is within a valley, thus air stagnation occurs.
Schools & Children:
1. What is the availability of international schools? What has been your general experience with them, if any?
I have three children attending the International School of Kuala Lumpur. They have two campuses. The K-5 is located in Maliwati which is approximately 10 miles from the Petronas Towers or the Ampang campus 5-HS which is approximately 4-6 miles from the Petronas Towers. Tuition is a factor if it's coming from your pocket. If you add uniforms, extra curricular activities, food, etc., it's quite costly. Curriculum is U.S. based. Less than 1/5 of the students are from the United States.
2. What accommodations do schools make for special-needs kids?
ISKL -- minimal.
3. Are preschools available? Day care? Are these expensive? What has been your experience with them, if any? Do the schools provide before- and/or after-school care?
4. Are local sports classes and/or activities available for kids?
Private or via-school activities is the most common programs available.
Expat Life:
1. What is the relative size of the expatriate community? How would you describe overall morale among expatriates?
A lot of expats from all over the world. I attend the Bridge Churc,h which includes representatives of more than 20 nations.
2. Morale among expats:
In general Malaysia is a good experience due to the diversity of activities, food, and social structure.
3. What are some typical ways to socialize, either with local people or with other expatriates? Are there groups or clubs that you can recommend?
Movies, theater, clubs, bars, fine dining, sports and concerts,etc...are widely available at reasonable expat prices.
4. Is this a good city for single people? For couples? For families? Why or why not?
If urban life and comparisons with living in the U.S. is the standard....then yes. If you are single, social networking for men is relatively easy. If you are a career women 35-60 y/o, social dating can be very difficult. Couples will have a lot of diversity of interest that can be accommodated.
5. Is this a good city for LGBT expatriates? Why or why not?
Homosexuality, trans-sexuals, and/or gay/lesbian is present but due to this being a Muslim country, not recognized to be legitimate.
6. Are there problems with ethnic, race/racial minorities or religious prejudices? Gender equality?
It would be nice to say that religious tolerance is the norm. But shuttle policies and by the dominant religious group can make things difficult or limit evangelical ministry.
7. What have been the highlights of your time in this country? Best trips or experiences?
Travel within the region is relatively affordable, cultural diversity and English communication is relatively common.
8. What are some interesting/fun things to do in the area? Can you recommend any “hidden gems"?
Again, it depends on your interest. The diversity of Chinese, Indian and Malay culture and the mixture between the past and recent race in urbanization provides ample things to do.
9. Is this a "shopping post"? Are there interesting handicrafts, artwork, antiques, or other items that people typically buy there?
Indian, Chinese, and Malay items are available. Each culture has unique items from clothing to furniture.
10. What are the particular advantages of living in this city?
Despite depreciation of the dollar, $1 to 3 MYR food and entertainment is relatively cheap and gasoline is subsidized by the government.
11. Can you save money?
Yes, but you won't. A lot of cheap travel, entertainment, and things to buy.
Words of Wisdom:
1. Knowing what you know now, would you still move to this city?
Of course. I have traveled and lived in a lot of Asian Countries. Malaysia has both old and new. Other than rentals and hotel prices, vacationing or living in KL is by far better than in other Asian countries.
2. If you move here, you can leave behind your:
Winter clothes, large vehicles, large furniture, etc. Space is prime and it is costly to store things.
3. But don't forget your:
Items that you cannot live without.
4. Do you recommend any books or movies about this city/country for those who are interested in learning more?
Alot of local books, but addressing all aspects or interest is difficult
