Deciding to make Malaysia my new home through the MM2H visa, or Malaysia My Second Home, was one of the most transformative decisions I've ever made. As an Indian citizen that had grown a little weary of not just India's urban centres' ever-increasing pace of life but ever-increasing costs of living too, I found Malaysia to be a refreshing alternative, one that offered both comfort, yet plenty of opportunity as well. To be sure, both countries are emerging markets, with lots of growth potential, but it seems Malaysia's industrialization isn't quite as feverish as India's. This suits us well.

Fresh Start in a Familiar Yet New Land
It's no secret that India is a diverse country with a rich cultural backdrop. But the appeal of Malaysia, with its pleasant climate, stunning landscapes and lively multicultural society, was, and is, undeniable. In fact, Malaysia shares many cultural similarities with India, including language, cuisine and traditions, which also helped in our transition ending up as good as seamless.

Yet, MM2H also presented new experiences, and sure, a few challenges, that ultimately enriched our lives in unexpected ways. Still, from the modern skyscrapers of Kuala Lumpur to the castaway beaches of Tioman, Malaysia is a country with not only a suitable work/life balance, but also one that's doing a great job at balancing the past with the present. An ideal place for someone seeking a fresh start.

Financial Benefits and a Lower Cost of Living
One of the most attractive aspects of the MM2H visa, for me personally, was its financial benefits. For one thing, Malaysia's cost of living is significantly lower than that in major Indian cities like Mumbai or Delhi. For instance, homes, cars, most supermarket items and recreation, too, are all very affordable. In aggregate, this allows us to enjoy a higher standard of living than in India, quite comfortably, in fact.

Additionally, the MM2H program offers tax incentives that are particularly beneficial for relocated foreign families like us, but for second homers and retirees too, since all of us tend to be recipients of overseas cash-flow, including rental yield, fixed investment income and pensions. These remittances are completely tax-exempt in Malaysia, a wonderful windfall! Add to this, the Rupee converting favorably to the Malaysian Ringgit and it's easy to see why our disposable income here in Malaysia stretches much further than in India, giving us the financial freedom to live an expat lifestyle, with all the expat perks, such as new exciting hobbies, frequent travel and a domestic helper.

Culinary Haven
Let's face it, for us Indians, food is not just sustenance; it's a celebration of life. Good for us then, that Malaysia's food scene is a paradise for those who appreciate bold flavours and diverse cuisines. The influence of Indian, Chinese and Malay cooking traditions creates a fusion that is both comforting and exciting. From the spicy rendang to the savoury nasi lemak, every meal here is a treat. Better yet, the abundance of Indian restaurants and markets ensures that I never feel too far from home, even while indulging in the local delicacies.

Hospitality Galore
But what has truly made Malaysia feel like home is the kindness and hospitality of its people. As a foreigner, I was initially somewhat apprehensive about fitting in, but the locals have been very welcoming. And the considerable Indian diaspora in Malaysia also means that there are always cultural events, festivals and gatherings that keep us connected to our roots while we forge new bonds in this lovely country.

Ideal for Family and Future
The decision to relocate wasn't just about me; it was about providing a better future for my family too. Malaysia's educational institutions are world-class and the healthcare system is reliable and affordable. Clearly, this eased the decision-making. As it turns out, my kids have adapted well, pretty much relishing the balance of academic rigour and extracurricular activities that their school provides them with. Bottom line: They're growing up in a safe, nurturing environment, which to me, is priority number one.

Expat's Paradise
Yes, living in Malaysia under the MM2H program has proven to be an expat's paradise. The country's strategic location in Southeast Asia means that travel to neighbouring countries like Thailand, Indonesia and Singapore is both easy and affordable, rendering Malaysia an ideal base for exploring the entire region. Also, the international community here is thriving and I've had the pleasure of meeting people from, literally, around the world, each with their unique stories and experiences. As far as I'm concerned, this is priceless.

This wealth of nationalities has culminated in Malaysia boasting the ideal balance of modern amenities and natural beauty. From high-end shopping malls and swanky resorts to still-untouched rainforests and tranquil beaches. In addition, Malaysia's infrastructure is well-developed, with efficient public transportation, quality roads and reliable 4G/5G internet, with excellent coverage. All of this contributes to a very comfortable lifestyle. The accessible golf, yacht and social clubs that have sprung up here being the icing on the cake.

The Path Ahead
Reflecting on our recent journey, I'm grateful for the opportunities and experiences that the MM2H visa has afforded me and my family. The decision to relocate to Malaysia has been life-changing, offering a better quality of life, real financial stability, as well as a rich cultural experience that we cherish every day.

To all other Indian citizens considering a shift abroad, I say this: Malaysia's MM2H program is quite a compelling option, one that offers a blend of familiarity and new beginnings. I recommend taking a closer look.

Interested? Click MM2H for Indian citizens.

By Arvind Narayaan,
Malaysia