Relocating to Malaysia: Offered 10000RM by new Employer

Perhaps I'll start this discussion off. When this type of question is raised there are two individual answers. One is that its a fair salary and living a "European/Western**" lifestyle will cost you a lot, but give you comfort The other answer is that its a very good salary, you can minimize all your expenses completely and save at least 50% of your salary.

** in the context that there are strong social security aspects involved in employment such as guaranteed benefits on retirement etc.

The difference is based on what are the priorities for living in Malaysia. To continue like back home or to embrace a difference lifestyle. To save as much as possible, or to splurge a bit on travel, dining, socialising etc. and save less.

One point is your expectations about EPF - not sure what you have been told, but an employer does not have to contribute much i.e. the local standard contributions (others please correct me if I get this wrong) are employer 13% of salary and employee 12% of salary. Being a foreigner they don't have to make much of a contribution - I think there is a very low minimum of about RM50 per month (again correct me on this figure other members).

CORRECTIONS/CONFIRMATION  NEEDED ABOVE

So there are some hidden agendas in working in Malaysia. If the job contributes to your career development then its worth entering the rat race here, which can involve isolation and loneliness.

That is alot of money in Malaysia and if i were you I would take it before they give it to someone else. Life is not expensive here unless you are planning to live an out of the ordinary life.

THanks for the insights

It's not a lot of money that is a silly thing to say.

Whether it is a good salary depends on your experience, age and job.

Also your marital / family status?

Eg if a single 23 year old IT person its a fair salary. If a 30 year old with ten years experience and two kids run away!

Hi Nemo,

Thanks for your response. My experience is around 3 Years and I am single as of now. Can I get a decent accommodation for RM1000?

Thanks!

For RM1k and under you can only get a room in a flat share. In some areas of Malaysia without public transport you may get a small unit in a housing block for about RM1200.

kush25 wrote:

Hi Nemo,

Thanks for your response. My experience is around 3 Years and I am single as of now. Can I get a decent accommodation for RM1000?

Thanks!

Then 10k is a fair salary for you. Accom depends on what you want and where but  2k min for own place.

Make sure you save up 20% every month for a rainy day.