In the 8th edition of our 14-part SE Asian sea/tree change series, we explore four new enticing retirement destinations in Malaysia, each offering unique experiences and opportunities:
- The Malay peninsula’s UNESCO-listed Malacca City (Melaka)
- Sabah’s far eastern exotic city of Kota Kinabalu (KK)
- George Town, just off the coast of Penang
- The tropical paradise of Langkawi Island
Located on the Strait of Malacca, Malaysia, this vital shipping lane links the economies of India, Thailand, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, Vietnam, China, Japan, Taiwan, and South Korea. Spanning 800 km, the strait connects both the Indian and Pacific Oceans, making it a crucial route for global trade. This makes Malaysia a prime location for a sea change, offering a strategic and vibrant environment for retirees.
THE MALACCA STRAIT – A CENTURIES OLD GLOBAL TRADING ROUTE
The Strait of Malacca is often referred to as the maritime version of the Silk Road. Approximately 25% of all sea-based oil passes through this strait from Persian Gulf suppliers to Asian markets, alongside 25% of the world’s traded goods, including Chinese-made products, coal, palm oil, and Indonesian coffee. This bustling trade route underscores Malaysia’s significance as a dynamic and accessible retirement destination.
Malacca City (Pop. 579,000) Explore This UNESCO Heritage Gem with a Rich Colonial History
Melaka (Malecca) is a state located in the south of the Malay Peninsula, adjacent the Strait of Malacca. It is resplendent with Portuguese, British and Dutch colonial architecture of the 16 th to 20 th centuries.
The Portuguese ruled from 1511 to 1641, the Dutch from 1641 to 1824 and the British 1824 to 1948.
In 2008, Malacca city was listed, as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Globally, the historic city is ranked ahead of other major cities like Barcelona, Lisbon, and Sydney for historical and regional significance.
Malacca City Malaysia
MALACCA RIVER
MALACCA’S CLIMATE
Climate wise Malacca’s yearly average is 25 to 31 degrees Celsius p.a with 1,257mm (49″) of rainfall and humidity of 74% to 80%. Sea temperatures stay a warm 28 to 30 degrees all year round. This makes it a top ten popular destination for both Malaysian and SE Asian visitors.
MALACCA’S CULTURAL DELIGHts
Malacca, a city steeped in history and cultural diversity, is a true haven for food enthusiasts. Its vibrant street food scene offers a tantalizing array of dishes that reflect the city’s rich heritage and the fusion of various culinary influences. Here’s a closer look at some of the must-try street delicacies in Malacca:
- Satay Celup
- Chicken Rice Balls (Nasi Ayam Bola)
- Duck Noodles (Koay Teow Th’ng)
- Malacca-style Wonton Noodles
- Nyonya Laksa
- Asam Pedas with Fish
- Portuguese Grilled Fish and Seafood
- Fishball Lobak
- Coconut Shake (Batu Campur)
- Nyonya Cendol
- Putu Piring
- Nyonya Kuih
MALACCA’S HEALTH CARE & MEdical Tourism
Malacca is also a popular place for health care and medical tourism for Indonesian people from Sumatra due to its close proximity to the state, followed by Singapore. Pre-covid 19 Malacca received over 500,000 tourists annually for medical tourism-related purposes.
WHY IS MALACCA POPULAR WITH RETIREES?
What makes Malacca an attractive retiree location is the easy SE Asian regional accessibility, low cost of living, high standards of healthcare, UNESCO listed colonial, cultural, ceremonial heritage plus amazing sea food and other cuisines.
Time magazine named Malacca as one of the best places to live and retire. But don’t take our word for it, make the effort to visit and judge for yourselves.
Kita Kinabalu
Mount Kinabalu
KITA KINABALU (Pop. 500,451) – “ THE PRIDE OF EASTERN SABAH
Named after Mt Kinabalu, 50 kms east-northeast of the city, it means “revered place of the dead.”. Aki means “ancestors” or “grandfather”, and Nabalu is the name for mountain.
Geographical Location
Kota Kinabalu (KK) is a major tourist and conference hub, serving as the gateway for travelers visiting Sabah and Borneo on the state’s west coast. The city lies on a narrow strip between the Crocker Range to the east and the South China Sea to the west, with six smaller islands (five uninhabited) situated just off its coastline.
KK Climate
KK enjoys a tropical monsoon climate, characterised by constant warm temperatures ranging from 26°C to 28°C, an annual rainfall of 2,547 mm, and high humidity levels between 78% and 83% throughout the year.
Excellent Healthcare Facilities
Kota Kinabalu boasts excellent healthcare options, with three public hospitals providing 589 beds and five private hospitals offering an additional 597 beds. These facilities are complemented by six public health clinics, two child and mother health clinics, six village clinics, one mobile clinic, and six Malaysia clinics within the city.
Accessibility: Air, Land, and Sea Connections
Air Travel – The Kota Kinabalu International Airport (KKIA) is a major hub for airlines like Malaysia Airlines, AirAsia, and MASWings. It serves as the second busiest airport in Malaysia and a significant gateway into Sabah and East Malaysia for domestic flights. KKIA offers international flights to Southeast and Northeast Asian cities, as well as Perth, Australia.
Road Network – Four major federal highways connect Kota Kinabalu to surrounding districts, towns, and cities throughout eastern Sabah, facilitating regular bus services for intercity and regional routes. Minibuses and vans are also used as alternative modes of public transport.
Rail Network – The historic North Borneo Railway (1896) links Tanjung Aru in Kota Kinabalu to Tenom and towns in between, serving the ports and agricultural regions. It is the only railway system operating in the area.
Ferry Services – The KK Ferry Service operates from Jesselton Point, providing ferry and motorboat services to nearby islands, as well as scheduled ferry services to Labuan. Kota Kinabalu has two cargo ports handling 3.6 million tonnes of freight cargo, making it the third busiest port in Malaysia.
A Promising Retirement Destination
With its accessibility, quality healthcare facilities, natural beauty of beaches and mountains, affordability, and rich cultural character, Kota Kinabalu (KK) presents itself as a promising retirement location worth further investigation.
GEORGE TOWN, PENANG (Pop. 794,310)
Goerge Town
Illustration of George Town Street in Penang
George town: Historic Trading Hub at the Entrance of Malacca Strait.
Recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the city of George Town in Penang, Malaysia, is not only a cultural gem but also an important geographical and historical trading center for the entire region. Its strategic location at the start of the globally significant Malacca Strait has made it a coveted prize for several major colonial trading powers since the 15th century.
Gateway to the Vital Malacca Strait
George town’s trading port marks the entrance to the Strait of Malacca, one of the world’s busiest shipping lanes. This narrow maritime passage connects the Indian Ocean and the Pacific Ocean, facilitating a significant portion of global maritime trade. George Town’s position at the western mouth of this crucial strait has played a pivotal role in its development as a major trading hub.
Contested by Colonial Powers
The city’s prime location at the gateway to the Malacca Strait made it an attractive target for colonial powers seeking control over the lucrative trade routes of Southeast Asia. From the 15th century onwards, George Town witnessed the presence of various European colonial forces, including the Portuguese, Dutch, and British, all vying for dominance over this strategic maritime chokepoint.
Melting Pot of Cultures
George Town’s rich history as a trading center has left an indelible mark on its cultural fabric. The city’s diverse population, comprising Malays, Chinese, Indians, and other ethnic groups, is a testament to its cosmopolitan past. The fusion of these cultures has resulted in a unique heritage, reflected in George Town’s architecture, cuisine, and traditions.
With its historical significance, strategic location, and cultural richness, George Town stands as a testament to the importance of the Malacca Strait in shaping the region’s maritime trade and cultural tapestry over centuries.
GEORGE TOWN CULTURAL AND CULINARY DELIGHTS
Cultural Heritage
George Town is renowned for its unique architectural and cultural townscape blending Malay, Chinese, Indian, and European influences. It boasts well-preserved heritage buildings, shophouses, temples, and mosques reflecting its multicultural past as a major trading port. Iconic sites include Khoo Kongsi clan house, Kek Lok Si Temple, Cheah Kongsi, and the vibrant street art scene with murals adorning the city walls.
Culinary Delights
Seafood Paradise – Penang and George Town are considered a foodie’s dream destination, especially for seafood lovers.
The city is famous for its delectable and fresh seafood cooked in various styles – Malay, Chinese, Peranakan (Nyonya), and more.
Popular seafood dishes include Assam Laksa (fish-based noodle soup), Char Kway Teow (stir-fried noodles with prawns/cockles), chilli crab, butter prawns, and black pepper crab.
Street food markets like Batu Ferringhi Night Market and hawker centers offer an incredible variety of affordable and authentic seafood delicacies.
Vibrant Street Food Culture – George Town is celebrated for its vibrant and diverse street food culture, with a multitude of hawker stalls and food courts.
Beyond seafood, one can savor an array of local delights like Nasi Kandar (mixed rice dish), Hokkien Mee (prawn noodles), Char Koay Kak (stir-fried radish cake), and various Nyonya kuih (desserts).
The street food experience, with its lively atmosphere and flavors, is an integral part of George Town’s cultural identity and a must-try for visitors.
In essence, George Town offers an immersive cultural experience through its well-preserved heritage sites and a tantalizing culinary journey, especially for seafood enthusiasts and street food aficionados, making it a true gem in Malaysia’s diverse tapestry.
THE UNIQUE STREET ART OF GEORGE TOWN
Samples of dozens of culturally displayed street art found in the old town back streets.
Nestled amongst the unique colonial architecture in the old town, you can stumble across many wonderful pieces of beautifully detailed street art.
George Town has emerged as a major street art destination, with vibrant murals, sculptures, and installations adorning the walls and alleys of the old town. This artistic movement has breathed new life into the city’s historic quarters, attracting visitors from around the world. Nestled amongst the unique colonial architecture, visitors can stumble upon these wonderful pieces of beautifully detailed street art at every turn.
The street art scene encompasses a wide range of styles and mediums, from realistic wall paintings and graffiti to wrought iron sculptures and installations. Notable works include Ernest Zacharevic’s iconic “Kids on a Bicycle” and “Boy on a Motorcycle” murals, Louis Gan’s “Brother and Sister on a Swing,” and the “101 Lost Kittens” project. Many of these artworks convey deeper messages about local culture, heritage, and social issues. The interactive nature of many murals, inviting viewers to become part of the artwork, adds to the immersive and engaging experience.
the Captivating Jewel of Kedah – Langkawi Island’s Tropical Wonders.
Langkawi (Population. 94,148), is a 99 island archipelago in the Strait of Malacca, situated 30km off the coast of NW Malaysia and a only a few kilometres south of Ko Tarutao, adjacent to the Thai border.
It is renowned for having some of the most unspoilt and less crowded beaches in SE Asia, making it a popular tourist destination for those wishing to escape the busier beaches of Southern Thailand.
Why Retirees Choose Langkawi Island
Langkawi Island offers an enticing combination of factors that make it an attractive retirement destination worthy of serious consideration. With its archipelago of 99 tropical islands, retirees can immerse themselves in a paradise of natural beauty and cultural richness.
Culinary Delights
One of the highlights of retiring in Langkawi is the opportunity to savour the diverse and flavourful cuisines of Southeast Asia. The island’s melting pot of Malay, Chinese, Indian, and indigenous culinary influences ensures a tantalising array of dishes to explore, from fragrant curries to fresh seafood delicacies.
World-Class Healthcare
Retirees can enjoy peace of mind knowing that Langkawi boasts world-class healthcare facilities. The island’s 110-bed hospital, set on a sprawling 53-acre campus, is equipped to handle most medical emergencies, while more specialised care is readily available in nearby Penang or Kuala Lumpur.
Recreational Activities Galore
Langkawi caters to a wide range of recreational interests, making it an ideal retirement haven for active individuals. From sailing and golfing to hiking and exploring the island’s lush rainforests, there is no shortage of activities to keep retirees engaged and entertained.
Affordable Living and Property Ownership
One of the key advantages of retiring in Langkawi is the lower cost of living compared to many other retirement destinations. Additionally, Malaysia’s laws allow foreigners to own property outright, a rarity in Southeast Asia. This presents retirees with various affordable property options, from beachfront villas to cosy apartments.
Long-Term Retirement Visas
Malaysia offers long-term retirement visas, valid for up to 10 years, providing retirees with the opportunity to establish a permanent home in Langkawi. This stability and security further contribute to the island’s appeal as a retirement haven.
With its idyllic tropical setting, rich cultural tapestry, world-class amenities, and favourable retirement policies, Langkawi Island emerges as a compelling choice for retirees seeking an affordable and fulfilling lifestyle in Southeast Asia.
BASIC FACTS ABOUT LANGKAWI ISLAND
| Population | Langkawi Island: 2020 - 65,000 Province: 2020 - 92,148 |
| Boat Access | Kuah Jetty, Langkawi Harbour, Telaga Harbour |
| AIr Access | Langkawi International Airport to KL, Singapore, Penang & Subang |
| Features | Flat alluvial plains with ridges ⅔’s covered by forests, hilly hinterlands and mountains |
| Borders | Ko Turutao, Thailand few KMs north, ferry from Pattaya Beach, Thailand |
| Climate | Tropical Monsoon climate with little temperature variance. |
| Wet Dry | March - November December - February |
| Temperature: | High: 29 degrees Celsius (84 F) Low: 27 degrees Celsius (81 F) |
| Rainfall P/A | 2,400 mm (94 inches). |
Langkawi’s Geography
Langkawi lies approximately 51 kilometres (32 mi) west of Kedah and 1.5 km west of Penang on the NW side of the Malay peninsula.
The main island is about 25 kilometres (16 mi) from north to south and slightly more from east to west. It covers 118,230 acres, 1/6th the size of Singapore.
Want to Retire to Malaysia? RTA is here to help
Malaysia’s cost of living is 50% – 55% cheaper than Australia, therefore it makes compelling sense for retirees to give more than just a passing consideration in to retire into, this region of SE Asia.
To help make your retirement planning easier, we invite you to try out our Retirement Comparison Calculator. This powerful tool allows you to compare living costs, healthcare expenses, and overall retirement budgets between your current location and up to 90 destinations across Australia and Southeast Asia, including top Malaysian cities like Kuala Lumpur, Penang, and Johor Bahru. Our team at Retire to Asia has over 20 years of experience helping people transition seamlessly to an affordable and fulfilling retirement lifestyle in Southeast Asia.
Reach out to us today, and let our experts guide you through the process, ensuring you can retire to Malaysia with complete peace of mind while maximizing your retirement funds.
Feel free to run, save and print as many comparison scenarios, as required.
