Malaysia: Unveiling life for teachers in a hidden paradise

Following on from my previous article -Embracing the allure of Malaysia, I delve into the everyday experience for teachers contemplating this beautiful country as their next teaching venture.

Geography & Climate

Malaysia, comprising Peninsular Malaysia and East Malaysia (Sabah and Sarawak on Borneo), is bisected by the South China Sea. Peninsular Malaysia consists of 11 states and 2 federal territories. The climate remains consistently pleasant year-round, with temperatures ranging from 29°C to 34°C, though humidity levels are relatively high. The country experiences minimal temperature fluctuations throughout the year and lacks distinct seasons, aside from the wet season from October to January. Lightweight clothing suffices for day and night, except for cooler temperatures in surrounding hill resorts. Singapore is a four-hour drive south, while Penang is a four-hour drive north. Most buildings, including school rooms, are air-conditioned.

Cost of living and setting up costs

Mercer's Cost of Living Survey ranks Kuala Lumpur at 181 among the world's most expensive cities, encompassing 209 cities across six continents. The survey evaluates the relative costs of over 200 items in each location, including housing, transportation, food, clothing, household goods, and entertainment.

Upon arrival, obtaining a Malaysian SIM card is convenient at the airport, available as prepaid or post-paid with purchase prices ranging from RM10 to RM50, allowing for top-ups as needed. WhatsApp stands out as one of the most widely used messaging apps for communication.

Prices & Shopping guide

Living expenses in and around KL can be tailored to suit your budget. The array of Western and Asian food options and household items is extensive, akin to what you'd find back home. Numerous supermarkets and outdoor markets offer fresh produce year-round, often at reasonable prices. Local cuisine is affordably priced, and exploring Malaysia's vast array of restaurants and food stalls is a delightful experience. Alcohol, however, tends to be relatively costly, with beer priced around RM15.00 per can and wine at RM60.00+ per bottle.

Chicken, pork, fish, fruits, and vegetables are easily accessible and relatively inexpensive at wet markets and local stores. Major supermarkets like Lotus (formerly TESCO), Jaya Grocer, Village Grocer, Ben’s Grocer, and Marks & Spencer are available, with further price comparisons detailed on https://www.lotuss.com.my/en . While supermarkets carry imported goods, they are pricier. Local food, abundant and cheaper than Western options due to lower import taxes, can be found at very affordable prices in "local" areas.

Malaysians dine out more frequently than in the United Kingdom, enjoying a wide variety of restaurants at comparatively lower costs.

Accommodation

In Malaysia, there is a diverse range of rental properties, both furnished and unfurnished, with monthly rents spanning from RM3,000 to RM4,000. For an individual seeking residence in a desirable location with quality accommodation, the average cost would be around RM3,000. On the other hand, a family aiming for a more spacious property in cities like Penang and Kuala Lumpur might expect to spend approximately RM4,000 or slightly more.

Initial expenses which you would ideally need in savings prior to being paid your first months salary largely revolve around set-up deposits - typically two months' rental deposit and an advanced one-month rent, totalling three months' rent for moving in. Additionally, there's a utilities deposit paid to the landlord, which varies but can reach up to half a month's rent.

Transport & Driving in Malaysia

Most foreign license holders typically need to convert their domestic license to a Malaysian one for prolonged driving in the country. However, some nationalities can continue driving using their home license if accompanied by an International Driving Permit.

Safety & Security

Malaysia stands out as one of the safest and most secure countries in Southeast Asia. The school prioritises security with a robust crisis management plan in place. Continuous collaboration with Malaysian, British, Australian, and United States security advisors ensures ongoing preparedness. While Malaysia maintains a relatively low crime rate, as seen in most major cities, awareness of petty street crimes is advisable.

With this in mind, if the above take on Malaysia wets your appetite, then I look forward to chatting to you about teaching opportunities at ISP for our schools in Malaysia.

?