Malaysia is located in South-east Asia and is known for its capital city Kuala Lumpur, its great food and national parks. Who wouldn’t want to move to this country of rich culture and sites? Travelling in and around the country is easy, the food plentiful, the colourful art and cultural festivals are entertaining and so full of life that you’ll wonder why you didn’t consider it earlier. However there are some things you should know before deciding to make the big decision to move.
Please note that this article offers recommendations. It does not constitute as legal advice. If you are planning to move to Malaysia, please seek professional legal assistance.
Before you Leave
There are some things you might want to think about taking care of before leaving. If you’re renting a house at the moment, it’s important to let your landlord know about your plans. If you’re only going on a temporary trip, let them know and plan around what they’re response is. This might be to move your belongings into storage while you’re away so that they can have other tenants, or leave them inside until you come back. Just remember to cancel your electricity and water bills if you’re living alone. If you have any financial arrangements or obligations to fulfil while you’re away, you can give your powers of attorney to someone you trust so that you don’t miss out on paying.
Travelling is Cheaper
Internal travelling is cheaper in Malaysia, as is international travel to other neighbouring Asian countries. AirAsia is the best option as it is both cheap and reliable, and has been a well trusted brand with the Malaysian population since its creation. Domestic flights in Australia are usually relatively pricey so not many people travel internally. It’s much easier and a lot less expensive to travel domestically in Malaysia, so you’ll be able to see the whole country far quicker and enjoy all the country has to offer you.
Change your Address
When you’re moving overseas, your address will obviously change so make sure that your mail is redirected to your new address. Also inform your workplace of your move, if you’re transferring to an international branch in your new country of residence. If you can’t work from another country at the current company you’re employed at, it’s a good idea to give them a few months notice about your plans to move internationally. It’s also ideal to have a job lined up before moving so that when you get settled into your new home, you’ll be able to work as soon as you’re able and not have to worry about money.
Be aware and Respectful of the National Religion
In Australia, the national religion is Christianity and this is vastly different from Malaysia. Although the country is an Islamic nation and some areas still practice Sharia Law, it is a pluralistic society, meaning that many different religions are able to be practiced together. Sharia laws and practices only apply to those who follow the religion. If you do not follow Muslim religion, you are not obliged to have the same food restrictions for example. It is, however, important to be sensitive when you’re communicating with the population and be respectful of the different religions being practiced.
Milo, Milo and more Milo
If you’re a fan of the Milo drink, then you’ll love Malaysia because the national drink is Milo. The locals will have it everyday and in various different ways: with milk, without milk, adding toppings to it and using it as a topping in general. Some locals will even buy this in bulk before leaving on holidays, taking it with them in case the country they are travelling to doesn’t have the drink mix. Since Australians also love the stuff, you’ll have no trouble finding the lovely chocolate malt powder and feeling like you’re at home whenever you eat it.
Invest in a Motorcycle
Motorcycles are the most common sources of transport in Malaysia, since they’re lightweight and are able to bypass other bulkier vehicles at a faster pace. Fuel is also very cheap and it’s known to have some of the cheapest prices of fuel in the world. In addition to this, as a motorcyclist, you don’t have to pay tolls that cars and other vehicles have to. However, there is more risk of an accident occurring on a motorcycle than that of a car so exercise caution and drive at the speed limits.
Uber is Cheaper than Taxis
Uber has become an international sensation, with the service utilising local residents and their vehicles, enabling them to earn money while helping others. Taxis in Malaysia are notoriously expensive. More savvy travellers will request the use of a set meter or try their hand at haggling. For foreigners, Uber is the more popular option as it has more standardised rates and is a little more user friendly, especially with its mobile application.
If you’re looking for space to store your belongings while you’re in the process of moving, check out some of the spaces that Spacer provides. Find one in your local area so that it’s easily accessible, allowing you to add and take what you want over the duration of your storage. Chat with your host and discuss any specifics that you might have for your belongings. So store without worries and safe travels!
