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Tropical Longstay
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Malaysia is a colourful country steeped in absorbing cultural traditions. The captivating cultural facade comprised of elaborate festivals, sartorial splendours, unique arts and crafts, dance, food and architecture is as diverse as the country's heritage. |
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Malaysia presents an exotic blend of the old with the new. For all the heightening modernity of the cities with towering skyscrapers, high-speed urban transportation and world-class shopping centres, the cities of Malaysia manage to retain an old world charm depicted in the majestic buildings of the colonial era and quaint pre-war shop-houses. The rustic charisma of the Malaysian countryside is just a short drive from the metropolitan areas. Wooden houses scattered among the forests, scent the air with the smoke of home-cooking, lush green paddy fields and rubber plantations paint a landscape blessed with untouched primeval rainforests, waterfalls and stunning beaches. The Malaysian government long-stay programme, simply called, "Malaysia, My Second Home"offers a wonderful opportunity for people from all regions of the globe to stay in Malaysia for a renewable period of up to five years. Application is open to all citizens of countries recognized by Malaysia, regardless of race, religion, gender or age, provided they meet some basic predetermined criteria. Applicants must prove a minimum fixed deposit of RM 150, 000 with any Malaysian financial institution, and demonstrate a monthly offshore income equivalent to at least RM 7, 500 if single or RM 10, 000 with a spouse. Interested parties will also need to show evidence of medical insurance valid in Malaysia, a medical report from any recognized hospital and a reputable sponsor would be helpful although not required. At this point skeptics may be thinking, "Sure, Malaysia is a lovely place to go on vacation, but why should I live there?"The answers are numerous. Besides the knowledge that each day will bring fascinating insights into the vivid and distinct cultural mix, there are financial, educational, recreational and medical advantages to living in this scenic, lively country.
The programme is likely to attract retired couples not only for the abundance of recreational and leisure activities but also because of the low cost of living and excellent medical facilities. The cost of living in Malaysia is one of the lowest in Asia due to an ever stable political climate and the government's efficient inflation monitoring. The country is extremely well connected with modern road, rail, air and sea transit systems as well as efficient and advanced telecommunications systems. High quality residential properties are available in all regions of the country. Terrace houses, semi-detached properties, bungalows, apartments and condominiums are available in addition to houses in high tourism zones such as at popular beaches, jungle areas and theme parks, recreational places and city centres. Under the long-stay scheme, foreigners are eligible to buy up to two houses at a cost of no less than RM 250, 000 each and for this they are entitled to a 60% loan from a local bank.
The country has excellent medical facilities available for costs much lower than in Western countries. Private doctors, clinics and international hospitals combine to help in establishing Malaysia as a centre for medical facilities in the region. Malaysia's rich Chinese heritage sees the presence of many English-speaking Chinese doctors and herbalists that take an holistic approach to health care. The balmy, tropical climate must also be credited for improving and maintaining good health. Residents who prefer to escape the humid tropical conditions of sea-level areas may choose to dwell in the mountainous regions where the weather is reminiscent of springtime all year round. Some interest is expected to be generated among young families and thus it is important to mention the country's education system. Malaysia has a very well developed educational system in both public and private schools where English is used as a medium. International schools run in all major towns and there are also private colleges and universities offering programmes with other well-known universities and major colleges throughout the world. The costs of education in Malaysia, despite the high international standards are very reasonable compared to Western expectations. Lovers of the sun, sea and underwater activities will find their adventurous appetites well satisfied in Malaysia; both the east and west coasts of Peninsula Malaysian, as well as Sabah and Sarawak offer endless stretches of beaches and pristine coral reefs. Of Malaysia's 1007 islands, 38 have been declared marine parks thereby guaranteeing their preservation for snorkelling, scuba diving, swimming, yachting, windsurfing, fishing and even underwater photography for generations to come. Tropical rainforests and woodlands teem with flora and fauna to the thrill of nature enthusiasts and photographers.
With so many races and cultures living together in harmony, Malaysian cuisine presents an interesting and delectable combination of Malay, Chinese and Indian foods. In addition, the country's international exposure sees all the food of the world available at prices that are usually much lower than in western countries. Once in Malaysia, shopping is a must. The variety of goods, ranging from sophisticated high tech items to avant-garde couture and unique knick-knacks will surely please even the choosiest of shoppers. Traditional arts and crafts from all regions of the country make wonderful gifts for loved ones back at home and add an ethnic charm to interior decoration. From the most conservative and discerning of designs to select from in terms of clothing, household furniture to miscellaneous items to the most unorthodox creations; each of the six primary regions has its own unique characteristics promising exciting shopping experiences. Malaysia's central location in Southeast Asia is also a crucial factor in the country's favour. Residents of Malaysia have all the wonders of amazing Thailand, the shopper's paradise of Singapore and the abundant natural beauty of Indonesia within proximity. Hong Kong and mainland China are also easily reached by frequent flights. Excursions to these other culturally and environmentally diverse countries are made easy due to the proficient transportation infrastructure that has been achieved.
History, culture, ethnic and international cuisine, low costs of living, exceptional educational and medical facilities; the list of advantages goes on, but for whatever reason you decide to spend time living in this colourful, captivating country, be sure that to live in Malaysia, is to add a Malaysian quality to life. Applications can be made direct to the Department of Immigration in Malaysia or through any Malaysian Representative Office or Tourism Malaysia Office worldwide. Petitions should include two passport-sized photographs of the applicant, spouse and accompanying children together with appropriate documentation. Under normal circumstances, successful applicants will be notified within 30 days of submission. |
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Tropical Living: March 2003, Volume2 Issue 10 |
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