MANXMONKEY
English expat in Malaysia
Forum posts
67
About me
English
Lives in Kuala Lumpur
Registration: 29 March 2013
Importing of vehicle as well as our furniture from South Africa by Johan Jood
Good day to all Me and my wife are considering moving to Malaysia on the MM2H system. We are retired and have worked in Qatar for 9 years prior retirement. We have visited Malaysia a number of times for holidays. We are now in the process ...
Selling everything and starting over is really the only alternative. We sell our properties fully furnished, just remove our personal items. Additional problem is I believe they've suspended the MM2H program so you may have to explore other ... Read More
Posting Abroad by MANXMONKEY
I need to post a simple A4 envelope to the UK. I went to the post office in Sungei Wang and the girl said, "Oh, no we're not accepting post to the UK, sorry". Is this correct? If so what's the best alternative post service?
If only. A normal person would. This isn't a normal person! And no, it's not an ex-wife. 馃う鈥嶁檪锔� Read More
Posting Abroad by MANXMONKEY
I need to post a simple A4 envelope to the UK. I went to the post office in Sungei Wang and the girl said, "Oh, no we're not accepting post to the UK, sorry". Is this correct? If so what's the best alternative post service?
Thanks. I rang DHL, they said RM105. Post Laju is 2 Ringgit or near enough! I hate being ripped off and it isn't urgent but before Sept 1st - and G only knows if this covid restriction will ever end, may be extended. Read More
Posting Abroad
I need to post a simple A4 envelope to the UK. I went to the post office in Sungei Wang and the girl said, "Oh, no we're not accepting post to the UK, sorry". Is this correct? If so what's the best alternative post service? Read More
Using a R/E Agent (or not) and agent fees by Rendang Lover
Hello Fellow Expats :) My name is David and I plan on moving to KL toward the end of this year (from Japan). I intend on renting a modest condo. I've read through several helpful threads on the Forum. However, I'm still a little unclear ...
Hi, So many beautiful apartments and great agents in KL..and like many on here I've lived everywhere around the world! However there are also thousands of so called agents who are not!! Do not do what you spoke of doing, asking a friend of a ... Read More
Cheapest cities in Malaysia by Bhavna
Hello everyone, Budget is an important consideration when moving to Malaysia. Ideally, expats would settle down in a city in Malaysia where the cost of living is low but where they could also enjoy a decent quality of life. Would you be able to ...
Great post 000. I've always lived in the centre of KL, walking distance to Pavilion and the hospital etc but wondered about trying somewhere else. One question..what about healthcare? We have great hospitals in KL, ours being Tung Shin which is ... Read More
ESD DP10 visa rejected and appeal process by Dinakaran venganna
Hi Team, I have been hired by one of the malaysian SDN BHD company and been offered 5500 RM per month. I was looking to the online status for visa and its showing "Reject". My company submitted doc for appeal. any chance of further ...
I'm not sure if 5,500 is enough to justify a non-domestic worker position. I seem to remember it had to be 12,000. Not sure but a German friend recruits people from Europe and I seem to remember that figure. Read More
Visitor Visa Runs with Dual Citizenship? by purplecarrot
Hi everyone, I have read most of the posts on this site about tourist visa runs, so I think I'm relatively well-informed about the process and limitations (ie increasingly strict immigration and an unofficial limit of 3 entries), but I ...
I think using your alternative passport should work as you're not Malaysian you are allowed dual citizenship so if they do pull you I can't see an issue as it's a separate trip and you never broke any rules on your previous trip. ... Read More
Visitor Visa Runs with Dual Citizenship? by purplecarrot
Hi everyone, I have read most of the posts on this site about tourist visa runs, so I think I'm relatively well-informed about the process and limitations (ie increasingly strict immigration and an unofficial limit of 3 entries), but I ...
Malaysian American: It's illegal for Malaysians to hold dual citizenships if their first citizenship is Malaysian... My wife chose to keep her Malaysian Citizenship over British or Swedish, she's very proud! Read More
Visitor Visa Runs with Dual Citizenship? by purplecarrot
Hi everyone, I have read most of the posts on this site about tourist visa runs, so I think I'm relatively well-informed about the process and limitations (ie increasingly strict immigration and an unofficial limit of 3 entries), but I ...
Yes. I've been told there's an unofficial limit of 3 visits in one year, not altogether. If you think about it if you had three short visits they will be fine but three visits of 90 days would mean you should be applying for residency and ... Read More
Pre requesites for renting in Malaysia by gregs5290
Hi, After asking several property managers via email about the pre requesites for renting in MMalaysia I thought id ask the most important question here. If I am working in australia and reentering KL every 9 days am i eligible to rent on a ...
First thing first: Are you an Australian citizen? Read More
Advice on water filter by bonfire1375
Hi all New to Malaysia and I am given to understand that one cannot directly drink the tap water here. Need your advice and suggestions for a good water filter.
Up to you my friend. I'm in a brand new condo and so far so good馃槉. I was in an old unit before and keep in touch with the new owner and he said they've had a new tank as the old one was, "disgusting". I seriously doubt ... Read More
Advice on water filter by bonfire1375
Hi all New to Malaysia and I am given to understand that one cannot directly drink the tap water here. Need your advice and suggestions for a good water filter.
Written on my phone in a cab. Excuse any typos! Read More
Advice on water filter by bonfire1375
Hi all New to Malaysia and I am given to understand that one cannot directly drink the tap water here. Need your advice and suggestions for a good water filter.
My brother in law is an International expert on Poverty and Nutrition. He's employed by the WORLD HEALTH ORGANISATION. One thing he taught me (as I was the original owner of Penridge Nutrition and need constant information) is search the WHO ... Read More
Advice on water filter by bonfire1375
Hi all New to Malaysia and I am given to understand that one cannot directly drink the tap water here. Need your advice and suggestions for a good water filter.
PS. The WHO issued a health warning about "Reverse Osmosis" water and I think it's important that people realise that over filtering water is no good for you.. "Why is reverse osmosis water bad for you? Just about everyone knows ... Read More
Advice on water filter by bonfire1375
Hi all New to Malaysia and I am given to understand that one cannot directly drink the tap water here. Need your advice and suggestions for a good water filter.
Why would you not drink the water once it's filtered? That doesn't make sense. When I did a lot of work in India my friend owned one of the biggest bottled water companies in India and I know the product was only filtered mains water. Read More
Advice on water filter by bonfire1375
Hi all New to Malaysia and I am given to understand that one cannot directly drink the tap water here. Need your advice and suggestions for a good water filter.
I think we just saw those at IOI. Looked very neat if it's the same thing, thought it was a unit which you put 25litre bottles of water because I had similar in Vietnam, very convenient for cup of tea! However they explained it was plumbed in. ... Read More
Advice on water filter by bonfire1375
Hi all New to Malaysia and I am given to understand that one cannot directly drink the tap water here. Need your advice and suggestions for a good water filter.
Hi Bonfire, Eco wise I object to bottled water but you are right, we are advised not to drink the water. In fact after an accident the doctor said, "Very important that you do NOT wash your wound with tap water, it's dangerous". I ... Read More
Converting Driving license to Malaysian Driving license! by Zohaibmalik
HI Friends, I just wanted to know if someone already experienced converting there home country Driving license to Malaysian Driving License. in addition, is it even possible to directly convert without going through driving classes and tests. ...
Are you sure you want to drive here!? Unfortunately it is possible for anyone to exchange their home licence to a local one. Just walk in and change. Hopefully this only applies to countries where there are strict tests before people earn a ... Read More
how to live in Malysia without MM2h. by shaz200
hi there all, im a newbie, was wondering is there any other way me and my husband can imigrate to malaysia. i thought i would be alledgible under the mm2h, but on scrutiny, i realise that not only do you need an offshore inclme of 10K MYR monthly ...
What do you mean by Labuan Company Visa? Is the requirement different to Peninsular company? In fact anyone know if company details are different for Borneo to Peninsular? Read More
Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) by Hansson
The Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) Visa was initially introduced as a Retirement Visa for foreigners interested in moving to and settling in Malaysia. Basically it is a 10 year Social Visit Pass with Multiple Entry that allows you to go and come as ...
Yes it will. At least to which type of visa people will apply for. I wonder if they take the time of your application or your time of acceptance of the eligibility to bring in a car. Read More
Top Universities that take International students? by CapeTownNicky
We will be applying to Nottingham University for admission to study a Geology Degree for our daughter and would like to apply elsewhere too. Which other universities are considered to be a good choice for an International English speaking student ...
Staying in the midlands Birmingham - but "Birmingham University" not just a university with Birmingham in the name, there are thousands of so called universities in the UK now, most not very good! Entrance requirements will be higher but ... Read More
Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) by Hansson
The Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) Visa was initially introduced as a Retirement Visa for foreigners interested in moving to and settling in Malaysia. Basically it is a 10 year Social Visit Pass with Multiple Entry that allows you to go and come as ...
If you want to start your own business I think a business visa would be more suitable. I think it's called a director's visa. The MM2 is best suited to retired ex-pats. Read More
What is the cheapest way to become permanent resident? by b4bmm
Hi All, As the title suggests I'm wondering whats the cheapest way to become a permanent resident? I know the programs they run ask for 300,000RM to be deposited in a Malaysian bank which can be reduced to 150,000 in the second year, although I ...
It's 500k paid up share capital, plus cost of setting up the company..and I think you need a Malaysian director. Read More
Spouse Visa or Malaysia My Second Home by billl
My wife is Malaysian Chinese. Would it be better to retire in Malaysia with a spouse visa or under the Malaysia My Second Home program?
(paying deposit of RM150k currently or having equiv. of RM10k per month income).... I think you mean AND 10k income. Do you know the details regarding business/director's visa? Read More
What is the cheapest way to become permanent resident? by b4bmm
Hi All, As the title suggests I'm wondering whats the cheapest way to become a permanent resident? I know the programs they run ask for 300,000RM to be deposited in a Malaysian bank which can be reduced to 150,000 in the second year, although I ...
If you want to set up a business then that may be a route. Someone posted on here ages ago an excellent piece explaining how to go about setting up a business and obtaining a director's or a "business" visa. Unfortunately I can't ... Read More
Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) by Hansson
The Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) Visa was initially introduced as a Retirement Visa for foreigners interested in moving to and settling in Malaysia. Basically it is a 10 year Social Visit Pass with Multiple Entry that allows you to go and come as ...
That's reassuring. And where did you settle now. You mentioned you'd found somewhere better. Read More
Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) by Hansson
The Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) Visa was initially introduced as a Retirement Visa for foreigners interested in moving to and settling in Malaysia. Basically it is a 10 year Social Visit Pass with Multiple Entry that allows you to go and come as ...
So actually you are just talking because, " You have a friend who.." blah blah blah. Well I can tell you first hand that it is not a breeze to get an MM2 visa. In fact as a European ex pat I can tell you it was easier for me to get a USA ... Read More
Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) by Hansson
The Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) Visa was initially introduced as a Retirement Visa for foreigners interested in moving to and settling in Malaysia. Basically it is a 10 year Social Visit Pass with Multiple Entry that allows you to go and come as ...
Nice balanced post Fred. I have to agree. Read More
Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) by Hansson
The Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) Visa was initially introduced as a Retirement Visa for foreigners interested in moving to and settling in Malaysia. Basically it is a 10 year Social Visit Pass with Multiple Entry that allows you to go and come as ...
Abdul, when you left did u have any problems withdrawing your deposit? And where did you choose "next" and I say that because a lot of us are similar and move regularly, I've lived in 7 countries so far, I get "itchy feet". ... Read More
What is the cheapest way to become permanent resident? by b4bmm
Hi All, As the title suggests I'm wondering whats the cheapest way to become a permanent resident? I know the programs they run ask for 300,000RM to be deposited in a Malaysian bank which can be reduced to 150,000 in the second year, although I ...
Or a long term visit pass? Read More
Do you speak Malay? by Priscilla
Hi everyone, It is widely agreed that speaking Malay is essential for a successful integration in Malaysia. Do you agree? Share your experience! Do you speak Malay? If so, where did you learn this language? Where can one attend a language course ...
A little, but often people look astonished and then look at my wife (She's local) as if to ask, "What did he say?". Weird thing is that even speaking English, locals understand my wife's pigeon English better than my correct ... Read More
Property prices in Malaysia by Priscilla
Hello everyone, Finding affordable housing in Malaysia is number one priority for newcomers. Tell us more about the estate market in your district/city/region. What are the most desired places to live? What are the most affordable ones? What ...
I've been approached before, not least by an Australian national real estate name but that was before this slump. I said no then because I travel 7 month's a year and if I was to do anything in property it would probably be in Europe. I ... Read More
Advice for Buying an Apartment in Malaysia by Hansson
[b]Although property prices have risen considerably over the past few years in Malaysia, it still continues to be a good investment for foreigners, particularly if they intend to live in their own property. Here is some advice on buying an ...
All good except for three points: 1. A verbal agreement isn't worth the paper it's written on. 2. One of the most reputable agencies in Kuala Lumpur is an oxymoron. 3. I can't agree buying property for a foreigner is a good investment. ... Read More
Property prices in Malaysia by Priscilla
Hello everyone, Finding affordable housing in Malaysia is number one priority for newcomers. Tell us more about the estate market in your district/city/region. What are the most desired places to live? What are the most affordable ones? What ...
So many lelong sales of bank reclaimed property. A friend of mine in Australia was upset that he couldn't get over to an auction of a property he was renting last year, value on paper last year 1.5m, lelong advertised price, 1.19m . At auction ... Read More
Property prices in Malaysia by Priscilla
Hello everyone, Finding affordable housing in Malaysia is number one priority for newcomers. Tell us more about the estate market in your district/city/region. What are the most desired places to live? What are the most affordable ones? What ...
Simple fact is that prices of apartments are still falling. I think rentals have steadied out in the more sought after areas but if you're price sensitive look a little further out. Big warning..if you want to be near Bukit Bintang be aware ... Read More
Customer care in Malaysia by Priscilla
Hello everyone, The way customer services are handled can greatly affect your views on certain brands, products, companies or stores. As a consumer, it is important to get familiar with local practices regarding client assistance in Malaysia and ...
No Delsey is rival to Samsonite. Years ago Samsonite were better by far. But now with lighter frames and such they simply don't match the Delsey strength. There are other brands which are good. I have a great suitcase I bought in New York but ... Read More
Customer care in Malaysia by Priscilla
Hello everyone, The way customer services are handled can greatly affect your views on certain brands, products, companies or stores. As a consumer, it is important to get familiar with local practices regarding client assistance in Malaysia and ...
I have used Samsonite for years but when I needed an extra case recently I ran out and bought a cheap one which didn't even make it to the plane! On my return I undid the lining on many suitcases in Parksons and the Samsonite is now not that ... Read More
Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) by Hansson
The Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) Visa was initially introduced as a Retirement Visa for foreigners interested in moving to and settling in Malaysia. Basically it is a 10 year Social Visit Pass with Multiple Entry that allows you to go and come as ...
I don't know anyone who has ever had it back. Read More
Customer care in Malaysia by Priscilla
Hello everyone, The way customer services are handled can greatly affect your views on certain brands, products, companies or stores. As a consumer, it is important to get familiar with local practices regarding client assistance in Malaysia and ...
CVCO, haha you remind me. I bought a suitcase from the store next to HSBC big branch and all 4 wheels fell off at the airport. When I returned it the guy said, "No you didn't buy that here", I said yes I did you pri##, I paid 180 ... Read More
Customer care in Malaysia by Priscilla
Hello everyone, The way customer services are handled can greatly affect your views on certain brands, products, companies or stores. As a consumer, it is important to get familiar with local practices regarding client assistance in Malaysia and ...
Absolutely outrageous. The standard of care is basically considered theft in the first world. Why do you think you see people plugging in and testing microwave ovens, hairdryers and toasters in stores!? They know any guarantee is worthless. ... Read More
Adapting to the climate in Malaysia by Priscilla
Hello everyone, Adjusting to new climatic conditions is key in any expatriation process. Moving to Malaysia is no exception. What are the climate characteristics of Malaysia? How does the local weather impact your daily life, mood or ...
Ooh...some new apartments have very good filtering systems. I owned a hotel and we filtered and UV treated the water so it was perfect. However even in my new apartment I use a Brita water filter jug. A good tip if you don't want the hassle of ... Read More
Adapting to the climate in Malaysia by Priscilla
Hello everyone, Adjusting to new climatic conditions is key in any expatriation process. Moving to Malaysia is no exception. What are the climate characteristics of Malaysia? How does the local weather impact your daily life, mood or ...
Even after years in Malaysia I sleep poorly and assumed it was just my Scandinavian blood but we're having a holiday in the UK and just this morning we both said how well we're sleeping and my wife is Malay! Sayin that this year has been ... Read More
I need advice to invest in renting cars by alhawary5855
Hi, if any one can help, I am thinking to buy 2 or 3 new cars then to let any rental company like europcar have them for monthly rate for me, my question is I have work permit for 2 years, can I installment these cars easly ,and how I can offer my ...
I'm dying to see what answers you receive because this seems a stupid idea to me and almost certainly in breach of any finance agreement you will enter into. But I might be wrong. Read More
Seeking for a Job Permit by manjur
How can I get a Job Permit for Malaysia, as security and administrative expertise and a nust retired Army Officer?
MM2 is really for retired people with comfortable income. You need unencumbered real unearned income so your army pension would be perfect. I think it's 12,000 a month you need. Plus you have to put a deposit down, again I think it's 150,000 ... Read More
Can anyone do job with dependent visa ? by SHUVRA76
If I Move to KL with business visa, Can my wife do job with dependent visa? Or can my sons study there?
Haha. I don't think they whip anyone for visa infringement but many people get confused by what they can do and do end up in jail. There are about half a million too many migrants here at the bottom end and I think there's been an effort to ... Read More
Can anyone do job with dependent visa ? by SHUVRA76
If I Move to KL with business visa, Can my wife do job with dependent visa? Or can my sons study there?
If your position doesn't pay enough to live comfortably you should re-think it. Don't rely on a second income from your wife because that won't happen and you seriously dont want to breach the visa regs in Malaysia. I hope it works out ... Read More
Sales Executive/ Marketing job in kl by Steve.Lancin
Hi I am Steve and I really like to know if I can apply as Sales executive for companies here in KL. For my work experience, I have been working as Area Sales Executive for a Distributor in Maldives. Our clients are 102 luxury island resorts in ...
People are giving you sensible advice yet you keep coming back and saying, "I don't believe you". So why ask in the first place? I'll tell you straight, I know a couple of wealthy Filipinos live here but note, "Wealthy". ... Read More
Please help! Thanks! :) by choco060606
Hi everyone! I am given an opportunity to work in Kuala Lumpur. To help me decide, I would like to first know the average cost of living in KL and the average salary for management trainees. Please share your estimate. Rent per month Electric bill ...
What god forsaken flea pit are you suggesting for 250 ringgit? My Myanmar friends share at 550 per month. And I mean share. Two per room. Cheapest nice small apartment in BB is 2,500 furnished 1 bed. If you're lucky. Fresh food from the market ... Read More
Is there a difference between landing a job in West and East Malaysia? by Joput
Hi everyone, I was just wondering if there's a difference between getting a job in West Malaysia and East Malaysia? Like in Kuching, Miri, Sabah etc.... Thanks upfront for your feedback. Best regards, Jo
I'll hide in the boot! But then can I be treated like a tourist, just drive throughout Borneo for a couple of months and then return to KL? My cars are both considerably bigger than a Myvi though so a bit more. Out of interest I keep a ... Read More
Is there a difference between landing a job in West and East Malaysia? by Joput
Hi everyone, I was just wondering if there's a difference between getting a job in West Malaysia and East Malaysia? Like in Kuching, Miri, Sabah etc.... Thanks upfront for your feedback. Best regards, Jo
No way does Nick pay customs duties when he goes around the world. There must be a way around it for tourists. You don't have to pay duty driving into Singapore and that's a completely different country. Read More
Is there a difference between landing a job in West and East Malaysia? by Joput
Hi everyone, I was just wondering if there's a difference between getting a job in West Malaysia and East Malaysia? Like in Kuching, Miri, Sabah etc.... Thanks upfront for your feedback. Best regards, Jo
Ouch! I should speak to my friend Nick Sanders who is multi-world-record holder for travelling around the world. I never work out how he gets his cars/motorbikes etc. through borders. Presumably if I just want to have my car in Borneo for a ... Read More
Is there a difference between landing a job in West and East Malaysia? by Joput
Hi everyone, I was just wondering if there's a difference between getting a job in West Malaysia and East Malaysia? Like in Kuching, Miri, Sabah etc.... Thanks upfront for your feedback. Best regards, Jo
OK, that's the same as here in KL. Thanks for that. One more question even the local travel agents don't know...is there a ferry across to KK or any other port from peninsula Malaysia? I mean a full size ferry that I can drive onto with my ... Read More
Is there a difference between landing a job in West and East Malaysia? by Joput
Hi everyone, I was just wondering if there's a difference between getting a job in West Malaysia and East Malaysia? Like in Kuching, Miri, Sabah etc.... Thanks upfront for your feedback. Best regards, Jo
Hi, What about MM2H visa? Would that also be different. I was about to apply but actually although I spend long time in KL the gf is from Borneo, her family are all over Borneo and maybe we will move there. Any thoughts on that? Thanks, Jamie. Read More
Volunteering in Malaysia by Maximilien
Hi, While living abroad, some expats wish to get involved in the local community life. What organizations expats can turn to if they want to volunteer in Malaysia? How to join a charitable institution, what are the steps? Which causes ...
Great. I teach on line and when in Vietnam simply converse in English to groups of college kids about a particular project to help their conversational English. Please email me directly penridge at manx.net my name is Jamie. Read More
Volunteering in Malaysia by Maximilien
Hi, While living abroad, some expats wish to get involved in the local community life. What organizations expats can turn to if they want to volunteer in Malaysia? How to join a charitable institution, what are the steps? Which causes ...
Hi, I've been involved in lots of charitable activities from organising fashion events and charity auctions to digging wells and working in "soup kitchens" but all organised through churches. One independent non-religious activity was ... Read More
Sanctuary Belize by read_doglover
Would appreciate any information on this development. Thanks!
Hi, I'm looking for a sunny; beautiful place to live and was hit with some marketing info from Sanctuary Belize. No bother but then people don't really bother me. However the world is a mess and I'd rather own 100% my own plot and build in total ... Read More