Cost of Living in Malaysia
(The costs provided are an approximate guide only.)
Prices in Malaysia is just like other countries, depending on location, fluctuation, and economic situation. For easy calculation, use currency exchange rate of RM4 = US$1. A plate of noodle may cost RM8 (US$2) in Kuala Lumpur, but the same plate may only cost RM5 (US$1.25) in smaller city and states. In Penang, prices may hike even higher because of tourist spot.
A 500-square-feet studio apartment can cost you RM1,800 (US$450) a month. A serviced apartment or condominium with more rooms and bathrooms can cost you RM3,000 (US$750) a month. However, cheaper options are available such as renting a room or staying at university accommodation. The average renting cost in Malaysia is RM550 (US$137.50) but still depending on the location.
Electricity cost in Malaysia is relatively low at average between RM50 (US$12.50) to RM150 (US$37.50) per month. Water bill is incredibly cheap in Malaysia especially in Selangor where the bill is only RM6 (US$1.50) per month and together with sewerage charge is RM8 (US$2). For internet, the cost is only at RM99 (US$25) per month for 100 Mbps speed connection by provider called Time. You can compare with other internet providers such as Maxis and Unifi. For phone services, you can use pre-paid or post-paid plan. By using one of the service providers plans, Digi, you can have RM90 (US$22.50) bill per month. For cheaper option, you can opt for pre-paid plan.
Without using your own car or bike, getting around in Malaysia can be costly. For international students, Touch n’ Go card is advisable to make it easier to use public transportation in Malaysia. Other options available are Grab and Socar. For food, you can get a decent meal at RM10 (US$2.50) at a coffee shop or food court. The cost will be higher for fast food such as McDonalds and KFC. Fancy dining will at least cost RM80 (US$20) per meal. Food delivery is also costly in Malaysia. Groceries shopping can be costly for supermarkets cater for expatriates. You can go to Tesco, Aeon, or Giant hypermarket for cheaper prices.
For common sickness such as light fever or sore throat, minimum bill is RM60 (US$15) at private clinic. Regular annual check-up cost about RM1000 (US$250) and for specialist service, the minimum cost is RM500 (US$125). For cheaper option, you can go to government clinic or hospital with bill at RM25 (US$6.25) and below.
Vacation is Malaysia is affordable. With average of RM1000 (US$250) you can cover your travelling cost including hotels fee for 3 days and 2 nights vacation. Entertainment is also relatively cheap in Malaysia, for example movie ticket only cost RM12 (US$3) and Netflix plans ranging between RM17 (US$4.25) to RM55 (US$13.75). A two-year visa will cost around RM114 (US$28.50), and first-time expatriates entering Malaysia for working or marriage reason, miscellaneous fees, and duty stamp cost about RM1500 (US$374).
