Moving from UK as a teacher

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fhussin New member

Member since 04 January 2025

fhussinNew member04 January 2025 12:32:13

Hi all,

I am strongly considering moving abroad Jan/Summer 2026. I am looking into Malaysia (KL) or Riyadh. Personally, I would prefer KL. I am currently a teacher in the UK with 3 years experience after graduating from UCL. I am married and I have a daughter, she is 9

months old. I read that there is 30% tax. I wanted to ask :

what is life like as an expat in KL?

I’d work for an international school & it looks like salary will be around 15-20k ringgit, with the heavy tax - is this enough to get by and save some money? I am on around (£2.9k a month, after tax in UK)

in my situation, would Middle East be a better option as it is tax free and I could save more? However cost of living is higher…?!

Fred Indonesia Expert

Member since 02 August 2009

A smile is the universal welcome.
Max Eastman

FredIndonesia Expert04 January 2025 12:38:29

28380

I like Malaysia (a lot), but I suggest that you look at Indonesia.

Indonesia has a serious shortage of native speaker teachers so conditions tend to be good, as do salaries.

Just a thought.

Just a note - The Japanese school in Bintaro (Near Jakarta) pays very well, but they advertise for a new teacher every year. That should tell you what I'm trying to say.

If Indonesia sparks any interest, give me a shout.

I earn nothing from this, but I'm happy to offer pointers.

Rchaudary Member

Member since 28 September 2017

RchaudaryMember05 January 2025 00:44:38

Asalaamualaikum

I hope you're well.

I have recently moved near KL (not inside KL), and I think there are many variables involved. I think you'd need to look at your own situation and what would work best for you and your family.

I think some schools offer lower than what you've quoted and then there is the EPF (pension) that you'd have an option of paying into and then there's your income tax. The tax is dependent on your situation (married with children and if paying zakat)

Car tax and insurance, electricity and water bills are a lot cheaper than the UK, and there is no council tax.

You'd also need to look at your package and what is/is not included.

Whether or not it is enough depends on your spending habits.

For me, I have been here for 5 months and I have enjoyed it a lot.

If you're looking at a 2026 move it is a good time to consider. For 2025, a lot of adverts will have already gone out and will be filled/be filling at the moment.

Where to go, I believe the best thing would be apply where you want and do istikhara. And you will be given what is best for you and your family.

I wish you all the best and what is best and most peaceful for your family.

Happy to discuss on the phone if you wish. Feel free to DM me for contact details.

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