Cost of living at Penang

Tax is about RM 2,660

It's enough to live on in Malaysia / Penang. To fine-tune this comment please check on Numbeo and Expatistan. Mainland Penang is cheaper than Penang Island

Accommodation would probably be RM1.5-3.5k per month. There is quite often flat sharing with other foreigners available. Ask around.

Internet - tricky when staying such a short time, so may be best to live in a Serviced Apartment where owner has already installed same. (SAs are available through owner direct or hotels - the former is the best option) Use public wifi at the property and mobile internet when out or for secure transactions. The issue is 1 yr is the minimum subscription for internet packages.

Transport can be a bit of an issue in some areas, but buses and plenty of grab cars. RM200-300

Telco payg available - cost per useage. RM100-200

Groceries for home cooking RM500 + and lots of eating out likely living in Penang.

It used to be OK to work on spending RM30 per day apart from accommodation, but that needs to be doubled these days. So allow RM60 for basic living. Alcohol is v. expensive so do budget for that plus smokes at RM15-17 a pack of 20.

Salaries in Penang tend to be lower than KL area.