Relocating to Malaysia under the Malaysia My Second Home visa has turned out to be one of the most rewarding decisions my family and I have made. Not only has the transition to Malaysia been nice and smooth, but more importantly, the benefits we've experienced since arriving have exceeded all our expectations.

Spending Power Boost

For starters, one of the most compelling reasons for choosing Malaysia was the considerable financial advantages offered by this visa, which, by the way, is also known as MM2H. The tax benefits, for instance, are particularly appealing, as Malaysia doesn't tax foreign income. This means that our earnings, such as the fixed income and rental yield that we receive from the UK, remain untouched by the Malaysian tax man. All of it can be remitted completely tax-free. Obviously, this allows us to enjoy a more comfortable lifestyle than with the insanely heavy tax burden we were subjected to.

So, coupled with the favourable exchange rate between the Pound and the Malaysian Ringgit, our purchasing power has increased significantly. Ans as a result, we've found that our money goes much further here, enabling us to indulge in a higher quality of life than back in the UK. Basically, we're living like expats and it feels wonderful.

Then there's the much lower cost of living in Malaysia. Everyday expenses such as groceries, home utilities and transportation are far more affordable than in the UK. Housing, too, is very reasonably priced, even in the exclusive areas. As it happens, we were able to secure a bungalow in a pretty upscale neighbourhood, something that would have been far beyond our budget in the UK.

In fact, it's safe to say that the accumulated savings we've achieved have allowed us to upgrade our lifestyle several notches.

Sunny Days and Balmy Nights

Malaysia's climate has been a welcome change from the typically dreary weather UK is (in)famous for. The lovely sunny days here have certainy done wonders for our mood. We've become more active, spending more time outdoors, on the beach, hiking through the jungle patches nearby and enjoying the various other recreational facilities available to us within a 20-30 minute drive.

Honestly, the natural beauty of Malaysia is truly breathtaking: pristine coastlines, emerald rain forest, refreshing lakes. And a rich biodiversity too. We've come to the conclusion that the environment here has given us a renewed appreciation for the outdoors and we spend much of our free time exploring the land.

Now, if all this sounds a little too good to be true, well, we're also still in awe that this Golden Visa option is actually available. But actually, we've since learned that this so-called lifestyle arbitrage has become quite a thing in today's world. More and more people realize that there's so much more life to be had outside their country's borders. It's only a matter of venturing out and taking the leap I suppose. Something that, ever since Covid, more people have started to do.

Healthcare and Medical Insurance

Another significant benefit of relocating to Malaysia has been the high standard of education and healthcare. Sure, it helps that our children have adapted well to their new schools, which offer O-Level and A-Level. And we've also spotted IB at other schools. All told, we find that the educational facilities here are excellent and we've no doubt that most schools here are suitably equipped to prepare our kids for the future.

As for healthcare in Malaysia, what we've seen so far is impressive. Modern hospitals and capable medical professionals. In fact, our initial reservation notwithstading, we've now got nothing but peace of mind, knowing that we're in good hands, but without the considerable costs that often come with private healthcare in most of the west. By the way, just FYI, health insurance too, is much more affordable here. To the extent that we've taken out a solid policy for the entire family. With rates like this, no harm in getting a little extra coverage.

Discretionary Travel

Travel is another aspect where Malaysia shines. Its central location within Southeast Asia makes it an ideal hub for discovering the region. We've already been on a trip to Thailand and Singapore, taking advantage, in both cases, of the budget airlines that operate in and out of Malaysia. We're nothing short of spoilt for choice when it comes to travel opportunities and we have a few new trips already lined up.

Looking Ahead

The decision to move to Malaysia on the MM2H visa has truly been life-changing for us. The bottom line is that Malaysia offers us a lifestyle that's not only more affordable but also richer in experiences and opportunities than back in Blighty. From the financial savings to the balmy climate, excellent education and healthcare, our move has been a success on all fronts. And don't get me started on the delicious food here...

Seriously, for any other British hopefulls keen for a fresh start, a better quality of life, I recommend the MM2H visa. For us, it's opened doors to a future both exciting and full of promise and we are grateful for the chance to call this beautiful country our second home, along, by the way, with an ever-growing British community!

Want to take a closer look at MM2H yourself? Click MM2H.co.uk. Enjoy : )

Marc Langston
Malaysia