Moving To Malaysia From The UK

Moving to Malaysia

If you are moving to Malaysia, whether to Kuala Lumpur, Subang Jaya or Klang, Britannia Movers International has the expertise and the local knowledge to tailor the move to your individual needs.

	Importing Personal Effects to Malaysia Shipments of used household and personal effects can be imported duty-free provided that you have owned them for at least three months and will not dispose of them for at least six months. If you are not a citizen of Malaysia, you will need a work or residence permit. All shipments are subject to 100% Customs examination. Your local Britannia Member will provide you with detailed customs regulations. All necessary documentation must be completed and submitted when requested, before your shipment is dispatched. Please note that you must be in the country in order to successfully complete all customs clearance procedures. To assist us with the completion of customs formalities, please provide us with a copy of your passport and visa. The required documentation will be supplied to you on arrival.
	Malaysia Customs Prohibitions and Restrictions In general, it is in your interest not to import the following items: Firearms & ammunition Inflammable goods & substances Plants & plant material Foodstuffs, perishables or otherwise Narcotics and dangerous goods Offensive materials Alcohol & tobacco
	Transit Times to Malaysia Groupage or shared containers usually take an average of 8 – 12 weeks door to door. However, this can vary depending on volumes being shipped, customs or immigration delays and prevailing weather conditions. Sole use container loads take on average 5 – 7 weeks door to door.
	Protecting Your Items for Transport to Malaysia All Groupage consignments will be barcoded before they are loaded into the shipping container. This will ensure that no items are left at origin.
	Moving to Malaysia with Pets Britannia can recommend a specialised shipper of animals to assist you in sending your family pet(s) from home to home. They will coordinate all documentation and necessary veterinary procedures. Find out more about pet transport.
	Moving Motor Vehicles to Malaysia The importation of motor vehicles is relatively simple, however, the registration process is costly and can take time. Your local Britannia Member can give you more information if you wish to ship your vehicle. Motor Vehicles are subject to duties and taxes ranging from 150% to 300%.
	Malaysia Currency Transfer When you are making international payments for individuals you can benefit from IFX expertise in seeking the best possible rate, whether you are sending or receiving foreign currency. IFX can help to protect you from exchange rate fluctuations and save you time and money on international payments. IFX offers: International Payments Regular Overseas Transfers Prepaid Currency Card Forward Contracts You can find out more info on the IFX website.

Moving to Malaysia with Britannia

Your Move to Malaysia with Britannia – Britannia can offer you a door to door shipping service to Malaysia, and can either ship your effects by shared load or by full container load. In addition, we can offer a door to door airfreight service to the major destinations in Malaysia. Our agents in Malaysia will arrange customs clearance, and deliver and unpack the effects, including removal of debris on the day of delivery.

Additional Removal Services – Britannia can provide a variety of additional removal services when moving to Malaysia. We are authorised to provide comprehensive insurance, can arrange storage prior to delivery, and can also take care of your pet transport.

If you are interested in moving to Malaysia, you can request a quote, read more about our international removals and additional moving services, or contact us for more information on 0845 6006661 or email sales@britannia-movers.co.uk.

Living in Malaysia

If you are planning to move to Asia, and are keen to get to know new cultures, and lifestyles, Malaysia could be your ideal expat destination. Separated into two regions by the South China Sea, the peninsula, and Borneo, Malaysia can boast exceptional variety. If you are looking for a multicultural, and cosmopolitan lifestyle, move to Kuala Lumpur or one of the big cities of the peninsula, while in Borneo you’ll discover a variety of natural wonders, and a rich wildlife.

Malaysia is a federal constitutional monarchy located in Southeast Asia, bordered by Thailand, Brunei, Indonesia and the South China Sea. Malaysia had been the subject of the British Empire from the 18th century until the mid-20th century, achieving independence in 1957. The country has a strong and growing economy, and while the economy has traditionally relied on Malaysia’s vast natural resources, it is now expanding into new sectors, such as tourism, technology and commerce.

The country is not only economically strong and stable, but is an extremely diverse nation, with a mix of ethnicities, a diverse culture and a rich flora and fauna. Malaysian culture is not only influenced by China and India, but encompasses elements of Persian, Arabian and British culture as well. Malaysia can offer a genuinely exciting lifestyle where you can enjoy the local cuisine, natural wonders and an adventurous lifestyle, in a country which is politically and economically stable.

Malaysian Visas

The most common visa for expats is the Employment Pass, which is issued to professionals who have a confirmed job offer in Malaysia. Your employer will act as your sponsor and handle much of the application process. Employment Passes are typically valid for one to five years, depending on the contract and role.

For retirees, the Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) programme is a popular choice. It offers long-term residency to eligible applicants who meet financial and income requirements. This visa is ideal for those looking to enjoy Malaysia’s warm climate, affordable cost of living, and cultural diversity.

The Dependent Pass allows family members of Employment Pass holders to join them in Malaysia. This visa covers spouses, children under 18, and, in some cases, parents. Dependents may need separate permission to work or study in Malaysia.

All visa applications in Malaysia require supporting documentation, such as proof of employment or financial stability, and may include a medical check-up. It’s also important to check visa-specific requirements and application processes, as they can vary.

It’s recommended to consult with the Malaysian Immigration Department or an experienced relocation expert to ensure a smooth visa application process tailored to your needs.

Working in Malaysia

Malaysia has a dynamic and growing job market, which attracts professionals from around the world, particularly in sectors such as finance, technology, healthcare, education, and tourism. The country’s economic growth, coupled with its strategic location in Southeast Asia, makes it an appealing destination for those seeking career opportunities in a global hub.

Malaysia is home to a number of international companies, particularly in cities like Kuala Lumpur and Penang, which create a wide range of job opportunities for expats. Salaries in Malaysia can be competitive, depending on your role and industry, and many employers offering additional benefits such as housing allowances, healthcare, and paid leave. The country’s tax-free income policy for expatriates in certain sectors is an additional attraction for those who move to the country for work.

The work culture in Malaysia is diverse and influenced by its multicultural population. While Malay is the official language, English is widely spoken in business settings, which can make it easier for expats to adapt. However, knowing some Malay can be a benefit, particularly for day-to-day interactions outside of the workplace.

Cost of Living in Malaysia

Housing and living costs are substantially lower than in the UK, or even in some neighbouring countries such as Singapore. If you are not looking for a luxury apartment in the centre of Kuala Lumpur and buy many local products, you’ll be able to live on a much smaller budget than in the UK.

According to Numbeo, the cost of living in Malaysia is 50% lower than in the UK, not including rent costs. Rent alone is 73% lower in Malaysia compared to UK prices. Salaries are also much lower on average though, with the monthly wage in Malaysia being 70% lower than in the UK.

You can check out some of the items you are likely to purchase regularly whilst living in Malaysia below. Prices are shown in Malaysian Ringgit (RM) and converted to UK pounds alongside the price in the UK so you can see how costs match up.

Interesting Facts About Malaysia

• Malaysian cuisine is largely influenced by the multi-ethnic make-up of the country, most of the influences coming from Malay, Chinese, Indian, Indonesian and Thai cultures.
• The Kuala Lumpur Tower is the fourth tallest tower in the world and the tallest one in Southeast Asia.
• The official language in Malaysia is Bahasa Malaysian, while English remains an active second language.
• Malaysia has some of the world’s oldest rainforests, including Taman Negara, which is over 130 million years old and is home to unique wildlife such as orangutans, Malayan tigers, and pygmy elephants.
• Malaysia is one of the world’s largest producers of rubber and palm oil, contributing significantly to the global market.
• The largest cave chamber in the world is the Sarawak Chamber in the Gunung Mulu National Park.
• The Sipadan Island is one of the world’s top diving spots.

Choose Britannia for Your Malaysia Relocation

If you are thinking about moving to Malaysia and want to find out more about our international removal services or request a quote, you can call us on 0845 6006661 or email sales@britannia-movers.co.uk. Our team will be happy to discuss how we can help you with your international relocation.