Malaysia, a vibrant Southeast Asian country, is a popular destination for international teachers. With its diverse culture, delicious cuisine, and stunning landscapes, it’s no wonder that many educators are drawn to this part of the world. However, before making the big move, it’s important to understand the cost of living in Malaysia. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the various expenses you can expect to encounter as an international teacher in Malaysia.
Accommodation Costs
One of the most significant expenses you’ll face when moving to Malaysia is accommodation. The cost can vary greatly depending on the location, type of property, and whether you choose to live alone or share with others.
In major cities like Kuala Lumpur and Penang, a one-bedroom apartment in the city centre can cost around RM2,000 to RM3,500 per month. However, if you opt for a similar apartment outside the city centre, the cost can drop to between RM1,000 and RM2,000. For those who prefer to share accommodation, renting a room in a shared apartment or house can cost anywhere from RM500 to RM1,000 per month.
Compared to cities like London or New York, where a one-bedroom city centre apartment can cost upwards of £2,000 or $3,000 per month, living in Malaysia can be considerably cheaper.
Food and Drink Costs
Malaysia is known for its food, and you’ll be pleased to know that eating out here is relatively affordable. A meal at an inexpensive restaurant can cost around RM10 to RM20, while a three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant can cost between RM80 and RM150.
If you prefer to cook at home, groceries are also reasonably priced. A litre of milk costs around RM6, a loaf of bread is about RM3, and a dozen eggs can be bought for approximately RM5. These prices are quite comparable to those in other Southeast Asian countries like Thailand and Vietnam, but are significantly cheaper than in Western countries.
When it comes to drinking, a pint of domestic beer at a restaurant can cost around RM15, while a cappuccino can set you back about RM10. Again, these prices are much lower than what you would expect to pay in cities like London or New York.
Transportation Costs
Getting around in Malaysia can be quite affordable, especially if you use public transportation. A one-way ticket on local transport can cost around RM3, while a monthly pass typically costs about RM100.
If you prefer to drive, petrol prices are also relatively low, with a litre of petrol costing around RM2. However, owning a car can be quite expensive due to the high import taxes on vehicles. For example, a new Volkswagen Golf can cost around RM150,000, which is significantly higher than the price in countries like the UK or the US.
Compared to cities like London, where a monthly travel card can cost over £130, or New York, where a monthly MetroCard costs $127, getting around in Malaysia is quite a bargain.
Healthcare Costs
Healthcare in Malaysia is of a high standard and is relatively affordable. A short visit to a private doctor can cost around RM80, while a visit to a specialist can cost between RM150 and RM300. Prescription medicine is also reasonably priced, with a box of antibiotics costing around RM20.
However, it’s worth noting that as an international teacher, you may be provided with health insurance as part of your employment package, which could cover these costs.
Compared to the US, where a visit to a doctor can cost hundreds of dollars without insurance, healthcare in Malaysia is significantly cheaper.
Leisure and Entertainment Costs
When it comes to leisure and entertainment, Malaysia offers a wide range of affordable options. A cinema ticket can cost around RM15, a monthly gym membership is about RM100, and a night out at a pub can cost between RM50 and RM100, depending on how much you drink.
For those who enjoy exploring, there are also plenty of affordable or even free attractions to visit, such as the Batu Caves, the Cameron Highlands, and the many beautiful beaches around the country.
Compared to cities like Sydney or Toronto, where a night out can easily cost over AUD$100 or CAD$100, leisure and entertainment in Malaysia is quite affordable.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the cost of living in Malaysia for international teachers can be quite affordable, especially when compared to Western countries. While accommodation and vehicle costs can be high, expenses for food, transportation, healthcare, and leisure are relatively low.
However, it’s important to note that costs can vary greatly depending on your lifestyle and location. Therefore, it’s recommended to do thorough research and plan your budget carefully before making the move.
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