Same tricks different place

Dear expat friends, By now you all must be enjoying yourselves here in Malaysia. I read some post and just wanted to share my two cents.
Malaysia just like another country is made out of a bunch of different people. So if you are looking for the following heres a great way to do it :-
I)Maid or ceaning service - Please get a recommendation from a neighbor or a friend.Do not approach someone who has left a note or posting.They have no previous work reference this way.The number of illegal workers here are at an all time high.So this lot may not be in the records should anything go wrong.And ususally things have gone wrong if they have to get jobs this way.
ii)Realtors : please approach one who works for a real estate agency that has the company registration number on the card.Call the office to verify.Do not work with anyone who tells you otherwise.
iii)Solicitors/Lawyers: Again get a recommendation from someone you can trust.A banker , Doctor ,School principal, your company's Director etc.
iv)never part with money for a deposit.It's known you never get a refund from a deposit.If you must the don't use cash as there are no traces with cash.Pay a solicitor. Then the solicitor pays what ever from his account.
v)There is a tribunal court to settle small claims that amount to less than RM30 or RM50K. One doesn't need a lawyer to represent them. Just pay a small fee to sort this out. Always keep receipts and paperwork.Copies of emails , advertisments etc
vi)Its easier for foreigners/expats to open a bank account with a foreign bank.HSBC,Standard Chartered etc
vii)When you purchase something of a reasonable price always ask for a receipt.This is proof if theres damage or overcharging.
iix)If living in a condo ask the building manager for procedures for applying for phone, astro, unifi etc.This way no technician can add on false/added charges .
if living in a house ask the realtor these questions. Ask them before or when you are sealing the deal.
ix)Like anywhere else, don't lend money or buy into exciting investment schemes. All banks and registered financial advisors can assist you there.
x)Never fall for an overly sad story from workers,staff,waitress,barmen etc. By now you know when to show real compassion and when to exit!

Malaysia in not Thailand or Vietnam and most Malaysians can get a decent job and there are many benefits for us being a Malaysian.
Good Luck and enjoy your time here