GUIDE FOR
Malaysia has become a favourite destination for expats, retirees, and digital nomads seeking warm weather, affordability, cultural diversity, and a relaxed lifestyle. With its mix of modern cities, lush rainforests, tropical islands, and welcoming communities, Malaysia offers an exciting and comfortable place to live. Whether you're drawn to Kuala Lumpur’s buzzing city life, Penang’s vibrant food scene, Johor Bahru’s growing expat hubs, or the beaches of Langkawi and Sabah, Malaysia has something for every newcomer.
To make your relocation smooth and enjoyable, it’s important to understand Malaysia’s culture, work environment, climate, and moving costs.
This guide offers an overview of Malaysia, including culture, work life, language basics, and helpful relocation tips for 2025.
How much does it cost to move to Malaysia in 2025?
The cost of moving to Malaysia varies depending on your origin country, the size of your shipment, and your preferred transport method. Below are realistic 2025 price ranges to help you budget your move.
Average moving costs by region of origin
From within Southeast Asia: €1,500 – €3,500
From the Middle East: €2,500 – €5,000
From Europe: €4,000 – €8,500
From the UK: €4,500 – €9,000
From North America (USA/Canada): €5,500 – €10,500
From Oceania (Australia/New Zealand): €4,000 – €8,500
From Latin America: €6,000 – €12,000
These costs depend heavily on shipment volume, whether you choose groupage (shared container) or full container shipping, and any added services such as packing, insurance, or storage.
Factors that influence your moving cost
Distance and origin country
Volume of belongings (m³)
Transport method:
Sea freight – affordable and common
Air freight – fast but high-cost
Seasonality: slightly higher prices during holiday periods
Additional services: packing, customs paperwork, insurance, vehicle shipping, pet relocation, storage
Typical examples
Move from Singapore to Kuala Lumpur with 10 m³: €1,800 – €2,800
Couple relocating from the USA to Penang with 20 m³: €6,000 – €9,000
Family moving from the UK to Johor Bahru with 30 m³: €7,000 – €12,000
For accurate, personalised pricing, requesting a detailed international moving quote is always best.
A Glimpse into Malaysia
Geography and climate
Malaysia is divided into Peninsular Malaysia and East Malaysia (on the island of Borneo). It is famous for modern skylines, UNESCO heritage towns, tropical rainforests, and crystal-clear islands.
Climate characteristics:
Equatorial climate: hot and humid year-round
Temperatures: generally 25–33°C
Rainfall: varies by region, with monsoon seasons affecting the east coast
Lush greenery: thanks to regular rainfall
Malaysia’s climate is ideal for those who enjoy warm weather and outdoor exploration.
A snapshot of history
Malaysia’s history reflects centuries of trade, migration, and cultural blending.
Key historical moments:
Early Malay kingdoms: influenced by India, China, and regional trade routes
Colonial era: Portuguese, Dutch, and later British influences
19th–20th centuries: development of rubber, tin, and multicultural society
1957: Independence of Malaya
1963: Formation of Malaysia (combining Malaya, Sabah, Sarawak)
Modern Malaysia: a rapidly developing nation with strong emphasis on innovation, infrastructure, and multicultural harmony
This historical diversity shapes its unique cultural landscape.
Diving into Malaysian culture
Malaysia is one of the world’s most multicultural countries, home to Malay, Chinese, Indian, and indigenous communities. This diversity creates a rich and harmonious cultural atmosphere.
Food and drink
Malaysia’s cuisine is world-renowned. Popular dishes include:
Nasi lemak (national dish)
Roti canai
Char kway teow
Satay
Laksa
Banana leaf meals
Teh tarik (pulled tea)
Food is central to social life, Malaysians love to eat, share, and celebrate through cuisine.
Festivals
Malaysia celebrates a wide range of festivals across cultures and religions:
Hari Raya Aidilfitri & Aidiladha
Chinese New Year
Deepavali (Diwali)
Thaipusam
Wesak Day
Merdeka Day (Independence Day)
Gawai & Kaamatan (East Malaysia festivals)
These celebrations highlight Malaysia’s cultural harmony and vibrant traditions.
Lifestyle and social norms
Life in Malaysia is shaped by community values, respect, and cultural blending.
Warm hospitality: Malaysians are known for being friendly and helpful
Relaxed lifestyle: especially in coastal and smaller cities
Family-oriented culture: strong community ties
Respect for diversity: different cultures coexist harmoniously
Affordable living: compared to Western countries
Modern infrastructure: excellent highways, shopping malls, and healthcare
Malaysia offers a comfortable and adaptable environment for expats.
Working in Malaysia
Malaysia offers a dynamic work environment with opportunities in both local and international sectors.
Business culture
Respectful communication and politeness
Building relationships matters in business
Hierarchy is recognised, but workplaces are increasingly modern
Punctuality is appreciated, though meetings can start with informal conversation
English is widely used in business settings
Job opportunities for expats
IT and tech
Education and international schools
Oil & gas
Engineering
Finance and banking
Hospitality and tourism
Manufacturing
Startups and digital industries
Malaysia is also a growing hub for digital nomads, especially with its DE Rantau Nomad Pass, designed to attract remote workers.
Bahasa Melayu made simple
Malaysia's official language is Bahasa Melayu, but English is widely spoken, especially in major cities.
Common Malay phrases
English | Malay |
|---|---|
Hello | Helo / Hai |
Goodbye | Selamat tinggal |
Thank you | Terima kasih |
Please | Tolong / Sila |
How are you? | Apa khabar? |
I don’t understand | Saya tidak faham |
Where is the nearest…? | Di manakah … yang paling dekat? |
Can you help me? | Boleh tolong saya? |
How much does this cost? | Berapa harga ini? |
Do you speak English? | Adakah anda bertutur dalam bahasa Inggeris? |
Learning basic Malay phrases will make daily interactions even smoother.
Final thoughts
Malaysia is a country full of warmth, cultural richness, natural beauty, and modern conveniences. Whether you're relocating for work, family life, retirement, or adventure, Malaysia’s diversity and hospitality make it an inviting place to call home.
Immerse yourself in its cultures, enjoy its incredible food, and discover why so many expats choose Malaysia as their long-term destination.
Selamat datang ke Malaysia! (Welcome to Malaysia!)
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