Anne-Lise Mty

Known as the "City of Heroes" in relation to where the struggle for Indonesian independence began, Surabaya is the second largest city in the country. It currently has a population of approximately 2.87 million people, which is more than ten times less than the capital city of Jakarta. On the other hand, it is the largest port in Indonesia and has a large expatriate population, mainly implanted on the western side of the city.

As one of the major regional economic powerhouses in Southeast Asia, Indonesia attracts foreign professionals looking for opportunities to work. In exchange, the country provides one of the highest standards of living in Southeast Asia.

By itself, finding a partner for life is already not a simple thing, and it gets even more complicated when you live in a religious and traditional foreign country like Indonesia. Here are some tips that might help you in your quest for love during your stay in Indonesia.

Taking care of your child while you are at work is not really that complicated when you're an expat in Indonesia. Home-based childcare is very affordable, and there are daycare centers and other facilities that can safely accommodate your child.

If you plan to live in Indonesia for more than 183 days over a period of 12 months, you will be considered a resident taxpayer from the date of your arrival. This article tells you more about your tax obligations during your stay as an expat in Indonesia.

Upon moving to Indonesia, you may need to open a local bank account. This will definitely allow you to better manage your financial transactions, your daily expenses and, most importantly, avoid transaction fees abroad. This article tells you more about the requirements for opening a bank account in Indonesia.

For the many foreigners who visit the world's largest archipelago each year, formalities are relatively simple. However, beware of the new conditions relating to the Covid-19 pandemic. This article should give you a better understanding of the requirements to enter Indonesia.

If you are about to have a baby in Indonesia, you should be aware that the medical services available to pregnant women and young mothers are typically of poor quality, especially when compared to those available in neighboring countries such as Malaysia or Singapore.

Like many expatriates, are you considering retiring to an idyllic island destination, enjoying some of the world's most beautiful beaches while savoring a well-deserved retreat in an enchanting location? If your answer is yes, then Indonesia should be just what you're looking for. Here is some practical information on how to qualify for a retirement visa in Indonesia.

If you are moving to Malaysia alone or with your family, you will be happy to learn that this country has one of the best healthcare systems in Southeast Asia. Since one can never be safe from a little health trouble, it is preferable to be ready in case of a problem. Likewise, if you already have medical conditions that require monitoring, or if you are reaching retirement age and need to focus on your health, in Malaysia, you will be in the hands of seasoned professionals.

Nobody is safe from an accident, an infection, or other health problems, in Malaysia or anywhere else. Before you decide to settle there or visit this country, it is necessary to find out about the risks associated with the destination and the health services available, especially in the event of an emergency.

It is not always very easy to give birth to a child when you are far from your country and the support of your family. Luckily for expatriates residing in Malaysia, this country offers relief features to pregnant women and new mothers. This starts with one of the best healthcare systems in Southeast Asia.

The loss of a loved one is always a painful ordeal, but also often complicated for those left behind, especially if it happens in another country. In Malaysia, for example, the administrative formalities following the death of a foreigner can be long and tedious. Here's a guide to get you there.

Malaysia is a true melting pot of cultures. The country brings together people and residents from all over the world. It is, by far, the perfect place to meet new people, whether professionally or socially. Here's a brief overview.

Malaysia is a growing financial, technological and commercial hub in Southeast Asia. Kuala Lumpur, its historic capital, attracts many foreign professionals working in various economic sectors. If you want to work in Malaysia and discover all the riches of this country, you will first need to obtain a work permit. There are different kinds for different uses, so it's best to know exactly what you need before you get started.

Malaysia is a country full of opportunities. It is an essential economic platform in Southeast Asia. Therefore, many expatriates want to start their own business there. Here is a short, but non-exhaustive guide that will help you get started if you wish to start a business in Malaysia.

Malaysia's Ministry of Higher Education monitors the country's institutions. This is to ensure that they deliver education that meets international standards. Increased public investment in the education sector and international enrollments make Malaysia a true regional education hub in Southeast Asia.

Finding accommodation in Malaysia is relatively simple as there is no shortage of accommodation for foreigners in this country. Moreover, many people who come to work alone in Malaysia enjoy sharing accommodation with other expats. However, if you are moving with your family, it is worth taking the time to determine where you want to live and in what type of accommodation, as rental contracts are usually for two years and therefore represent a long-term commitment.

Formerly a district of Petaling Jaya, Subang Jaya is one of the largest cities in the Klang Valley. It has seen significant development since the 1970s. It is now home to some of the best schools, colleges and universities in the country. The city has also brand-new infrastructure, new buildings, well-equipped medical centers, cafes, shopping malls, and other places of entertainment. As an industrial center in the Klang Valley, Subang Jaya offers various professional opportunities and remains a very popular residential hub among expats, students and young professionals from Malaysia and beyond.

Johor Bahru is located in the southernmost region of Peninsular Malaysia, just across the border with Singapore. In fact, many people who work in Singapore live in Johor Baharu to take advantage of more affordable rents and cost of living. This includes many Singaporean citizens and residents. They commute every day across the Causeway or 2nd Link bridges.

Living in Seremban allows you to enjoy the best of two worlds. On one side while living in this city, you can take advantage of its proximity to Kuala Lumpur and the bustling capital's attractions, and on the other side, one can enjoy being far away enough from the madding crowd and benefit from lush nature and a more peaceful way of life.

The former capital of the state of Selangor, Klang is best known for being home to the state's royal family. Port Klang is the largest federal port in Malaysia and is located 6 km away from the city which means that opportunities for foreigners are plentiful in the region. Its proximity to the Greater Klang Valley makes Klang a key region of the government's economic development plans and, as the former state capital and royal city, it also has a rich cultural heritage.

Compared to major cities in Southeast Asia, Ipoh is a more affordable choice and a dream come true for nature lovers. Ipoh is surrounded by limestone hills, cliffside temples, peaceful lakes and the fragrant Gaharu Tea Valley, and offers many advantages for those who wish to lay their hats down there. The city is also close to Kinta Nature Park and Gopeng. Hence, if you like nature and outdoor activities, Ipoh will suit you perfectly.

Malaysia is such a melting pot of geographical, cultural and social diversity that there is something for every lifestyle. Its islands, beaches, rainforests, and metropolises make it an exciting destination for tourists and expats alike. It is quite easy and affordable to travel within Malaysia during weekends and holidays to experience other parts of the country and even neighboring nations.

Malaysians are known to be social media addicts, so there's no shame if internet access is one of your main concerns when settling in Malaysia. And this is understandable as staying reachable has become of major importance in our digital world. Whether for professional or social reasons, you will most likely want to stay in touch with your friends and family.

If you plan to move to Malaysia, you will need to consider several taxes and draw up a budget to get a better idea of your net salary. Income tax, corporation tax, property tax, consumption tax and vehicle tax are the main types of taxes, and it is better to know the details in order to avoid surprises once there.

Before traveling to Malaysia, it is advisable to check with the nearest Malaysian Embassy or Consulate regarding entry requirements. There are indeed different visas and fees that vary depending on the purpose of the visit, the length of stay and nationality.

If you are only moving to Malaysia for a short time, it may be worth considering furniture storage while renting fully furnished accommodation in Malaysia. If you are staying for a longer period, you can buy your furniture in Malaysia itself. The prices of locally made furniture are often much cheaper than in Western countries and you can even shop online.

If you have a cat or a dog that you cannot part with, transporting it to Malaysia is an important decision. Regulations vary depending on which country you are from, the type of animal you have, and its health status. It is therefore recommended to get closer to the nearest Malaysian Embassy and to consult a pet transport specialist before you start.

How to travel from one place to another is a key question if you are thinking of moving to Malaysia. Getting around Malaysia is very easy thanks to a wide variety of transport network that suit different needs and budgets. If you have the budget to buy a car, it can be a worthwhile investment, especially if you have a family or pets.

According to the Expat Explorer survey conducted by HSBC in 2021, Malaysia ranks 26th in the world for expats, thanks to its economic prospects and quality of life. If you are retired, working or studying in Malaysia, you will need a local bank account not only to receive your salary or pension but also to pay your rent and cover your fees and expenses.

Malaysia is a popular commercial and holiday hub in Southeast Asia. The country attracts tourists and expatriates from all over the world. Before traveling to Malaysia, be well informed about the different types of visas and entry requirements, which vary according to nationality, length of stay and reason for visit. Covid-19 restrictions are also strict, even if they have been eased since late 2021.

You are moving to Malaysia and want to drive for work or travel there? Follow our guide!

If you want to work in Malaysia, it is important to know the labor market and the conditions related to employment in this country. Immigration regulations are strictly controlled, and the authorities are very selective as to who is allowed to work in the country.

As the commercial and financial center of Southeast Asia, Malaysia attracts foreign investors from all over the world. Thanks to its extensive transport network, the country is well connected and is a very accessible base from which to do business, particularly in the industrial, service or industrial and export sectors.

Are you a student or recent graduate who wishes to develop your expertise while experiencing a work environment and lifestyle different from those of your country of origin? If so, doing an internship in Malaysia may be of the greatest interest to you.

Stretching from mainland Asia to the island of Borneo, Malaysia is far from one of the most popular tourist destinations. Most of the travelers who stop there are in transit between Indonesia and Thailand. On the other hand, the country has been attracting more and more interest from digital nomads in recent years, attracted by the many facilities and opportunities offered by the country.

Ipoh is the capital of the state of Perak and is often considered a quiet, medium-sized city that offers fewer career or employment opportunities than major Malaysian cities. Nevertheless, this colonial enclave continues to seduce with its more laid-back lifestyle, while offering decent amenities, as well as delicious local cuisine.

Johor Bahru, Malaysia's second-largest city, is located in a strategic region that confers rapid development. Commonly referred to as JB, Johor Bahru is the southernmost city in Malaysia, as well as the capital of the state of Johor. Johor Bahru's population currently stands at around 3.66 million, but its annual growth rate of 1.2% places it among the most populous cities in Southeast Asia.

Klang, also called Kelang, is a bustling port town located on the Klang River in the Selangor State. It is found on the west coast of Peninsular Malaysia and is considered the most developed state in the country. Klang was the ancient capital of Selangor before the advent of Kuala Lumpur. Somehow in the shadow of Kuala Lumpur ever since, Klang still has plenty to offer Malaysians and foreigners alike.

Seremban is the state capital of Negeri Sembilan. It lies about an hour south of Kuala Lumpur in the southwest of Peninsular Malaysia. Those traveling by land between Singapore and Kuala Lumpur must pass through this city, which is the commercial center of the state. Although it does not have its own airport, Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) and KLIA2 are only 30 minutes away by car.

Subang Jaya is located in the district of Petaling in the state of Selangor, 20 minutes from downtown Kuala Lumpur. In an effort to relieve congestion in the old capital, cities like Subang Jaya are rapidly growing in size. Incidentally, many people who work in Kuala Lumpur live in Subang Jaya and commute therefrom every day.

Living and getting around in Malaysia is relatively cheap, but if you're a student, you're likely to often think about how you can save up for travel, activities, and, why not, buy more books. Here are some tips to make the most of your student life in Malaysia.

The city of Kuala Lumpur offers a wide range of accommodation options. Many expats opt for luxury condominiums or apartments when looking to settle downtown, while those who want a little more space turn to outlying neighborhoods, for houses and villas.

When you plan to move to another country or another city, your first concern is undoubtedly where you are going to live. Although renting apartments, condominiums, or (rarer) houses is a popular option in Kuala Lumpur, buying a property can be an attractive idea if you are looking to settle down for the long term. Plus, it can turn out to be a profitable long-term investment. Before you start viewing properties with potential, you will first need to understand the laws and regulations that govern foreign ownership of property in Malaysia.

Kuala Lumpur is a real megalopolis, surrounded by suburbs and neighborhoods so different from each other that they give the impression of moving from one country to another. Some of these areas are ideal for those wishing to settle in Kuala Lumpur. Others have excellent educational institutions, green spaces, commercial areas, tall buildings, hotels, bars, popular discos and good restaurants. The city is generally quite safe, no matter where you are. Nevertheless, apartments, buildings and expatriate quarters are often secured by gates and 24-hour security teams.

Kuala Lumpur is a fast-paced city, where work is often at the heart of people's lives. As Malaysia's most populous and dynamic megalopolis, the city has no shortage of opportunities. Thus, KL remains the country's main magnet for expatriate professionals who are looking for work. New talents and skills are therefore always in demand by numerous local companies.

Due to recent changes in the global economy, the labour market in Malaysia has undergone some transformations. Except from a few exceptions, specialization levels that are being professionally required are constantly mutating, like everywhere else. While there are many career opportunities in Kuala Lumpur, it is still a competitive playing field where ambition and willingness to work overtime are key to any successful career.

One of the advantages of moving to Kuala Lumpur when settling in Malaysia is the quick access to many facilities and the ease with which one can move around. The Malaysian public transport system is cheap, safe and very reliable, with a network of services linking different areas of Kuala Lumpur and suburbs, as well as with other cities in the country. The city has an excellent public infrastructure, with well-maintained motorways and roads that are pleasant to drive on, provided there are no traffic jams.

Kuala Lumpur is ranked second in the world in terms of affordability of higher education. The city is a thriving center of excellence in matters of education and student diversity. It is home to training centers, universities and colleges that offer locally accredited and internationally recognized basic training, diplomas, bachelor's and master's degrees. Kuala Lumpur is also distinguished by the welcome it offers to foreign students. There, one can have the opportunity to meet people of all nationalities and backgrounds, while receiving a world-class education.