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Moving from Singapore to Malaysia
Guide for Moving, Cost of Living, Taxes and More
Moving from Singapore to Malaysia is a great idea if you want to stay close to home. Find all you need to know about moving to Malaysia, the costs, requirements, and more.
What can you find here?
Cost of Moving to Malaysia
The cost of moving from Singapore to Malaysia is between S$ 1.860 and S$ 4.746.
Moving to Malaysia from Singapore is generally more affordable than other countries, due to the short distance between the two. Prices can always change based on your needs, chosen shipping method, and amount of belongings.
| Apartment size | Cost |
| 1 Bedroom Apartment | S$ 1.860 – 2.056 |
| 3 Bedroom Apartment | S$ 2.860 – 3.165 |
| 5 Bedroom Apartment | S$ 4.291 – 4.746 |
*These prices are estimates and can fluctuate based on season, weight of shipment, and shipping method.
If you are looking for an affordable move from Singapore to Malaysia, we advise you to minimize the volume of your move. As a rule of thumb, the more items you move, the more expensive it will be. Use our volume calculator below to count the volume of your items.
Movers from Singapore to Malaysia
Find out the best moving companies specializing in Singapore-to-Malaysia moves to help you find a reliable and hassle-free service
1. Moovaz
2. We Care Mobility
3. Family Relocation
1 ratings as "Good Price"
Van Services from Singapore to Malaysia
Are you looking for a van service from Singapore to Malaysia? See our best options for moving companies offering a man & van service:
1. MHR MSG
4 ratings as "Good Price"
2. Alliance Movers
Moving Services from Singapore to Malaysia
Moving from Singapore to Malaysia can be done via air or land freight. Although the distance is short, hiring a professional moving service can simplify the process. Key services offered include:
- Packing/Unpacking – Secure packing with quality materials to protect your belongings during transit.
- Furniture Disassembly/Assembly – Careful dismantling and reassembly of large furniture for easy transport.
- Customs Clearance – Handling all paperwork ensuring all entry requirements are met.
- Storage Solutions – Short and long-term storage options before or after you move.
- Pet Relocation – Assistance with safe transport and meeting Malaysia’s pets’ requirements.
- Vehicle Transport – Help with importing cars or motorcycles.
Request Quotes from Moving Companies to Malaysia
The best way to get the most accurate moving costs is to request moving quotes and compare the offers to find the best deal. Fill in our Sirelo quote form and receive up to 5 offers from movers for free.
How to Emigrate to Malaysia from Singapore
If you plan to stay long-term and live and work in Malaysia, there are some things to sort out – As a Singaporean, you’ll need to apply for a visa and sort out your residency status. Here’s what you need to know:
Do Singaporeans need a visa to work in Malaysia? Yes. To work or live in Malaysia, a visa is required for Singaporeans.
How to Apply for a Malaysian Visa from Singapore
For working and living in Malaysia, you must apply for a Malaysian visa. The process is straightforward and can be done online:
1. Choose your visa depending on your circumstances.
- Work Visa or Employment Pass: For those planning to work in Malaysia. You must have a job offer from a Malaysian employer, who will handle the visa process for you.
- Residence Visa: If you’re moving to Malaysia under specific conditions. You can apply if:
- You’ve been married for +5 years to a Malaysian citizen
- You’ve lived and worked in Malaysia for +5 years
- You have sufficient income to meet Malaysia’s requirements
- Dependent Pass: For family members joining someone already in Malaysia with a valid visa or residence permit.
2. Apply for the eVisa.
- Go to the Malaysian eVisa official website and create an account
- Complete the application form
- Upload the documents required
- Wait for the approval
3. Receive your visa approval letter.
Before travelling and moving, it’s smart to check the Ministry of Foreign Affairs site for any current safety updates and more information on visa requirements.
How to Get a Malaysia Work Visa
To work in Malaysia, you must apply for a work permit, which your employer will arrange for you. If you plan to stay long-term, you will need an Employment Pass, designed for high-skilled professionals.
For short-term stays, you can choose between a Temporary Employment Pass for lower-skilled jobs or a Professional Visit Pass if you are there for short-term assignments.
Returning to Malaysia from Singapore as a Malaysian Citizen
Malaysian citizens returning from Singapore don’t need a visa. However, it is advisable to check with the Malaysian Ministry of Foreign Affairs regarding any requirements related to taxes and other arrangements. Additionally, ensure that your identity card and any other necessary documents for your residence are up to date.
Moving to Malaysia with Family
Singaporeans moving to Malaysia with family will also depend on visas. There are some options:
- Employment Pass: If a family member gets an offer from a Malaysian employer. The rest of the members can apply for a dependant or spouse visa.
- Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H): This long-term visa is made for foreigners willing to retire in Malaysia or live there. Certain financial requirements are needed.
- Spouse or Dependent Visa: Allows partner of a Malaysian citizen (or foreigner already with legal residence) to move there. They are granted based on the primary applicant’s visa.
When relocating with family, it’s essential to research educational centres—such as international schools—family-friendly neighbourhoods, and suitable healthcare insurance for all members.
Move Furniture from Singapore to Malaysia
Moving furniture and household goods can be a hassle. Hiring professional movers that can help you in the process, will ease your move. Consider the following factors:
- Find a reputable company with experience. You can also hire additional services such as packing, storage or assembling/disassembling.
- Create an inventory list. It will help you organize your move and keep track of all the items being moved.
- Pack securely. Make sure all your furniture, valuable and fragile items are well-packed to avoid possible damages during the transport.
How Much to Move Furniture from Singapore to Malaysia? Moving a small apartment’s furniture can cost SGD 800 to SGD 2,500. Larger moves can go beyond SGD 3,000.
Living in Malaysia as a Singaporean
Malaysia is quite a safe country for expats, ranking in the top 20 of the world’s safest countries. The crime rates throughout the country have also been on a decline. Similar to Singapore, Malaysia has more than one dominant language. The main languages in Malaysia are Malay, Mandarin, and Tamil.
What is good to know is that Malaysia is a mostly Muslim country, so things such as same-sex activities are seen as criminal. Compared to Singapore, Malaysia is not a country that will welcome members of the LGBTQ+ community but rather criminalizes any activity related to it.
Cost of Living in Malaysia vs Singapore
The cost of living in Malaysia is around 56% lower than in Singapore.
Moving to Malaysia from Singapore may seem more affordable at first. However, the purchasing power in Malaysia is lower than in Singapore. The median income in Malaysia for locals is around S$ 2,014 and S$ 5,197 in Singapore.
Note that expats can expect to earn more money than locals, and that combined with a lower cost of living, lets you enjoy a high quality of life. Malaysia is also more affordable, so you won’t require as high of an income to live the same or better standard of life.
Have a look at the average prices in Malaysia:
| Product | Price in Singapore | Price in Malaysia |
| Cappuccino | S$ 6.42 | S$ 3.99 |
| Beer (0,5L) | S$ 10.00 | S$ 5.99 |
| Water Bottle | S$ 1.50 | S$ 0.66 |
| Chicken (1kg) | S$ 12.62 | S$ 6.15 |
| Bottle of Wine | S$ 35.00 | S$ 22.28 |
| Monthly Bus Pass | S$ 120.00 | S$ 15.36 |
| 3 bd Apartment in City centre rent | S$ 7,265.96 | S$ 830.25 |
*These prices are estimates from September 2024. Source: Numbeo
Advantages and Disadvantages of Living in Malaysia
Are you still hesitant if moving to Malaysia is a good idea? Check out the following list with pros and cons to decide:
Pros
Lower living costs
Proximity to Singapore
Cultural diversity
Easy visa processes
Cons
Public healthcare standards compared to Singapore
Less developed infrastructure
Job opportunities
Language barrier
Best Cities in Malaysia for Expats
Finding the right city for yourself in a strange country can take a lot of effort. We have listed below the best cities to live in Malaysia, especially for expats, which also happen to be some of the best places to visit in Malaysia:
Moving from Singapore to Johor Bahru
As the closest neighbouring city to Singapore, this may offer you a nice balance between the two countries. The cost of living is also lower than in Singapore and even the Malaysian capital. Johor Bahru offers plenty of entertainment, easy access to Singapore, and an urban lifestyle.
Moving from Singapore to Kuala Lumpur
The capital, and perhaps the most known city in Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur is an excellent city for expats. It offers many job opportunities, international schools, and an urban lifestyle. English is also a widely spoken language in the city.
Moving from Singapore to Penang
Penang is home to a UNESCO World Heritage site marking the city’s colonial past and multicultural history. Besides its historical relevance, it’s also widely known for its rich food culture and variety. The city has a multicultural mixture of people and English is also spoken in the area.
Moving from Singapore to Langkawi
If you’re looking to move away from the bustling city life of Singapore, Langkawi is the place to go. It consists of 99 islands and offers a serene tropical life, beautiful beaches, and nature.
Moving from Singapore to Kota Kinabalu
Looking for adventure in your new city? You’ll no doubt find it in this city. It’s located in Malaysian Borneo and Mount Kinabalu allowing plenty of opportunity for thrill seekers.
Moving from Singapore to Kuching
The city offers beautiful nature, rich culture, and many beaches. Located in Borneo, you also have easy access to Kota Kinabalu. The city is full of colonial buildings, temples, and museums full of the cultural history of Malaysia.
Things to Know Before Moving to Malaysia: How to Move
Wondering how to move to Malaysia? There are a few essential things to know before. If you need some advice or simply want to understand the process better, this guide will walk you through the key aspects.
Taxes in Malaysia
All non-residents in Malaysia are subject to an income tax rate of 30%.
The foreign tax rate in Malaysia will always be the same unless you become a permanent resident. However, the tax rate of 30% is still lower than the highest rate of 45% in Singapore.
The countries have also signed a tax treaty, avoiding double taxation. This means you will only pay the taxes in the country you earn your income. Learn more about the taxation between Singapore and Malaysia.
Singapore vs Malaysia Currency
The currency in Malaysia is the Malaysian ringgit (MYR) known as the Malaysian Dollar. Singaporean dollars are not accepted as payment in Malaysia, despite the proximity of the countries. The conversion rate of SGD vs. MYR is 3.25, and you can exchange your currency in Malaysia or do it before entering the country.
Best Banks in Malaysia
The best thing to do before moving is to see if your bank is accepted and operational in Malaysia. Some banks, such as the Bank of Singapore have expanded branches in Malaysia, but not all banks have international operations.
In general, these are the best banks for foreigners in Malaysia: Maybank, CIMB, Public Bank, UOB Malaysia, Hong Leong Bank, RHB Bank
For a foreigner to open a bank account in Malaysia they must meet certain requirements and provide the following: Proof of ID (passport), residence permit for Malaysia, proof of employment, and minimum opening deposit (amount varies).
Healthcare and Health Insurance in Malaysia
- The healthcare system in Malaysia is universally provided for all residents and citizens. It consists of the public and private sectors. The public sector is heavily subsidized by the government, which brings down the cost of basic doctor visits or hospital stays. A visit due to a minor malady like a sinus infection can cost as little as S$ 13.00.
- The subsidies of public healthcare are only available for tax-paying residents. Many expats tend to opt for international health insurance not only to get better coverage but also access to English-speaking hospitals and doctors.
Climate in Malaysia
The climate in Malaysia is quite similar to Singapore. The weather is warm all year round, around 25-35 degrees Celsius, and has a humid hue. There are also two monsoon seasons, the southwest monsoon, and the northwest monsoon. The prior takes place from May to September and the latter from November to March.
Education in Malaysia
Malaysia has a formal education system governed by the Ministry of Education. The school system consists of five stages, preschool, primary school, secondary school, pre-graduate, and higher education. Kids often start school at the age of 4 in optional preschool. The focus of the schooling system is teaching them critical and creative thinking.
Working in Malaysia for Singaporeans
Finding work in Malaysia can feel overwhelming and difficult, especially due to the high unemployment rate. The good news is, that many countries are seeking foreign knowledge and expertise which can benefit you in the job search.
If you are moving to Malaysia for work, you must obtain an Employment Pass (EP) before being eligible to work. Note that not all companies support this visa, so do your research beforehand.
The best sites for finding expat jobs in Malaysia are: LinkedIn, Glassdoor, Jora, Ricebowl, Maukerja.
