Malaysia has been voted as the world’s third best place to retire based on International Living’s Annual Global Retirement Index for 2014.
Malaysia came in behind Ecuador, Mexico and Panama, but ahead of all retirement destinations in Asia. Other Asian nations included in the index, although way behind Malaysia, were Thailand, the Philippines and Vietnam.
Under the caption “Malaysia – Great Value for Money in a Cultural Melting Pot”, the index noted that more and more expats see the amazing opportunities offered by Malaysia each year.
“The country has one of the most robust economies in Asia, and this is reflected in the consistently high standard of living available to locals and expats alike. It’s just one of many factors that led to it being ranked the highest Asian nation in this year’s index,” it said.
Quality of life within the country is considered to be excellent and cost-efficient. Malaysia also makes a “perfect base from which you can explore the innumerable natural, historical, and cultural treasures that Southeast Asia has to offer. The proliferation of cheap Asian airlines in recent years has made it easier (and more affordable) than ever to explore Thailand, Indonesia, India, and Japan. In Malaysia, Asia is truly at your doorstep”.
International Living cites the example of Thomas O’Neal, a New Yorker who lives in Penang.
“I rent a 1,600-square-foot apartment with an amazing pool, just five minutes’ walk from the ritzy Gurney Plaza shopping mall,” O’Neal is quoted as saying.
“It costs me just US$850 (RM3,000) a month. I don’t need a car, either, so I’m saving money left, right, and centre. I love the weather – 82 degrees Fahrenheit on average – and the ease of getting to Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, and Laos. When you combine that with a cost of living of US$1,500 (RM5,295) per month, including my rent, it’s almost unbeatable.”
Nonetheless, International Living tells potential retirees that “ultimately no list or formula can automatically deliver the best destination for you. Only you can decide that.”
“Only you can assess your personal preferences, needs, budget and desires, and look at the options available to see which nation best suits your needs”.
Farah Wahida, Editor of PropertyGuru, wrote this story. To contact her about this or other stories email farahwahida@propertyguru.com.my
