Frequently Asked Questions about Malaysia

If you are considering moving to Malaysia, you likely have many questions about moving to Malaysia. From travel requirements and language barriers to work and schools, below are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about expat life in Malaysia.

Is Kuala Lumpur the only place where I would be able to find employment?

Finding employment in Malaysia isn’t limited to Kuala Lumpur. While Kuala Lumpur and the greater Klang Valley are major hubs, you may also find opportunities in Johor Bahru, which is growing as an industrial and tech centre, as well as in Penang, known for its electronics and manufacturing industries.

Malacca is also gaining traction as a place for job opportunities, particularly in services and tourism. The Iskandar Malaysia region is another emerging economic zone, offering a variety of sectors for potential work.

Key industries for expat employment include information technology, finance and banking, manufacturing, healthcare, and education.

Working and Work Culture in Malaysia

What languages are spoken in Malaysia?

The Malaysian population is a mix of various ethnicities, and the main languages spoken include Malay, Mandarin, and Tamil. Due to the country's history as a British colony, English is also widely spoken, particularly in urban areas and in the business world.

While English is prevalent in cities, you may find it less common in rural areas, especially among older generations.

Business Culture in Malaysia

Are there good schools in Malaysia?

Malaysia has a solid education system, and you’ll have plenty of choices for your children’s schooling. While public and private schools are options, most expats opt for international schools to bypass language barriers and other bureaucratic hurdles. 

There are well-regarded international schools across Malaysia, with notable institutions in Kuala Lumpur, Johor, and Penang. Most of these schools offer curricula like the British curriculum or the International Baccalaureate programme, providing diverse and high-quality education.

International Schools in Malaysia

Should I prepare for the climate in Malaysia?

Definitely. The tropical climate means year-round heat and high humidity, with only slight differences between winter and summer. The monsoon season has become more intense in recent years, leading to occasional flash floods, especially in certain regions like Johor and parts of Kuala Lumpur. Areas like Penang and parts of the East Coast are also more prone to flooding, particularly during the monsoon.

If you aren’t used to the heat, it’s easy to feel drained, so stay hydrated and find ways to keep cool to avoid heat exhaustion and dehydration. Be mindful of vector-borne diseases such as dengue, which is more prevalent during the wet season.

Weather and Climate in Malaysia

Do I need a bank account in Malaysia?

You’ll find having a local bank account useful, especially for day-to-day transactions. Many places still prefer cash, but with ATMs easily accessible, it’s straightforward to withdraw cash as needed. Setting up a bank account as an expat is also fairly simple, with institutions like HSBC, Citibank, and Standard Chartered providing expat-friendly services.

Other local options like CIMB, Public Bank, and Maybank are also worth considering for their widespread branches and user-friendly mobile banking apps. You’ll need documents like your passport, a valid visa, proof of address, and possibly a letter from your employer. Mobile banking is widely adopted and is a reliable way to manage finances on the go.

Banking, Money and Taxes in Malaysia