Amar and Aadhya's Journey to Malaysia with the MM2H Visa
Protagonists
Amar and Aadhya, a couple from Darjeeling, are embracing a new life in Malaysia with the Malaysia My Second Home visa (MM2H). Their journey highlights how Malaysia's low cost of living and chomping at the bit economy make it an ideal expat lifestyle destination. This article may inspire you to explore the expatriate life in Malaysia too.
Lifestyle Boost in Malaysia
Amar, a physical therapist and his teacher wife Aadhya have long dreamt of living in a place that would combine a comfortable, relaxed lifestyle with financial independence and economic potential. Now in their mid-40s and currently residing in Darjeeling, they're enthusiastic about Malaysia's
MM2H visa, also known as
Malaysia My Second Home, regarding it as a pathway to re-boot, even upgrade their lives.
The MM2H visa offers them the ideal opportunity to experience Malaysia's welcoming environment and lifestyle that's easy on the pocketbook, whilst potentially witnessing an economic boom, one that could benefit the couple in the years to come.
Their paid-for condo in Darjeeling's upscale neighbourhood should offer solid rental income, which will generously support their comfortable lives in Malaysia. Their additional finances, including a decent portfolio of NSE shares and cash savings, are readily deployable to bolster their purchasing power even further as they settle in Malaysia.
Why Malaysia? Why MM2H?
Resort-Living and Lower Purchase Threshold
Malaysia's real estate market presents a major advantage for MM2H visa holders like Amar and Aadhya. With a special lower purchase threshold for MM2H participants, the couple will have access to well-priced properties that make the process of buying a home quite affordable here. Since Malaysia's housing prices are far more budget-friendly than those in India's major cities, the couple is able to choose a quality residence. Additionally, the MM2H visa allows new arrivals to rent before committing to a purchase, so there's no rush to buy. More about this later...
Tax-Free Bank Transfers: A recurring Financial Boon
The MM2H visa also allows for tax-free transfers from India to Malaysia, making it appealing for Amar and Aadhya to bring over their funds, either in regular smaller tranches or in a few lump sums, given that there will be no tax deductions along the way. With their India-based stock holdings and bank savings at the ready, they can seamlessly transfer their funds to Malaysia as they want or need, providing them with the flexibility to increase their monthly cash flow at will, courtesy of MM2H's tax exemption.
Elevated Lifestyle with Expat Living
In view of today's unique India/Malaysia arbitrage opportunities, Amar and Aadhya have determined that going for the MM2H visa means they can actually look forward to a lifestyle upgrade. Malaysia's blend of rich cultural diversity, copious delicious food options and leisurely lifestyle offers a complete experience, one that combines relaxation with exploration.
From shopping in premier malls to enjoying leisure activities like golf, yoga and water sports, Malaysia's well-to-do have easy access to a safe, high-quality lifestyle that appeals to expats. Furthermore, Amar and Aadhya will find connections easily in the thriving Indian communities across Malaysia, meeting locals and expatriates alike who, typically, value the same cultural identities, festivals etc.
Stunning Scenery and Ease of Travel in Southeast Asia
Malaysia's landscapes, from verdant untouched jungles to gorgeous pristine beaches, offer a remarkable backdrop for a fulfilling life. The natural beauty, laid-back pace and comfortable climate of Malaysia provide an idyllic environment for
la dolce vita. Moreover, Malaysia's geographical location, in the heart of Southeast Asia, positions it as an ideal travel hub. With short hops to Singapore, Thailand and Indonesia, Amar and Aadhya will find traveling across Asia quick, easy and cheap. For expats in Malaysia, life's for living.
Established Indian Communities and Welcoming Locals
As stated above, settling into Malaysia will be easy for Amar and Aadhya, in part, thanks to the well-established Indian communities in cities like Kuala Lumpur, Johor Bahru and Penang. This community network, combined with Malaysia's multicultural society, means that the couple will likely feel welcome and connected soon after arrival. The local Malaysian people, too, are known for their friendliness and openness to foreign residents, which will undoubtedly add to the couple's sense of belonging in their adopted country.
Excellent Weather Without Extremes
Compared to the at times harsh seasonal weather in parts of India, Malaysia boasts pleasant weather year-round. The mild monsoon season ensures that Amar and Aadhya can enjoy more stable weather, allowing the couple to make the most of outdoor activities and leisure without concern for excessive weather-related disruptions. It's good to note that Malaysia's rainy season is from November/December to January/February, which is characterised by a cooler, wetter spell, though nothing nearly as severe as India's monsoon can be.
Growing Economy with Amenities for Every Lifestyle
Malaysia is rapidly becoming a regional economic powerhouse. For Amar and Aadhya, the MM2H visa means a future aligned with a growing economy that offers modern amenities. The country's world-class shopping centres, exclusive golf courses and fine yacht clubs make Malaysia an attractive destination for retirees and expatriates looking for a little luxury without breaking the bank.
Natural Safe Haven with Security
Malaysia is uniquely sheltered from the natural disasters that affect a good part of Southeast Asia, such as earthquakes, volcanic eruptions and typhoons. This stability, coupled with Malaysia's low crime rate, makes it one of the safest countries to live in the region. Residents and visitors can enjoy a secure environment, free from geological threats and with minimal risk from crime, creating a calm and peaceful lifestyle for all.
Affordable Healthcare and Rent Options
Healthcare is a significant factor for Amar and Aadhya and it so happens that Malaysia's healthcare is renowned for delivering excellent service at acceptable cost. Indeed, along with Singapore, Malaysia is one of Southeast Asia's premier healthcare tourism hubs. Moreover, as mentioned earlier, the couple can opt to rent one or several different homes for a year with the MM2H visa, giving them time to try a number of their preferred neighbourhoods before committing to a property purchase. A nice little touch by MM2H.
Accessibility to India
Another advantage of the MM2H visa is the freedom to travel frequently. It provides free-flow entry and exit permits, after all. But in addition, Malaysia is well-connected to India with frequent flights from Kuala Lumpur to most major Indian cities. In terms of airlines, there's plenty of choice if and when the couple feels like visiting India. This accessibility ensures that they remain close to family and friends. Even the time difference is just three hours. Knowing that everybody back home will remain within reach goes quite a ways to making the transition even smoother.
MM2H: Lifestyle Arbitrage Opportunity of a Generation
With rental income generating excellent purchasing power, as well as other sources of available cash flow, Amar and Aadhya are ready to take on Malaysia as their second home. The MM2H visa provides them with flexible residency in a destination that promises an exciting, indeed enviable lifestyle, along with cultural richness
and a backdrop of economic and personal growth.
Interested in reading more about residing in Malaysia? Visit
MM2H.in.
