Keshav and Aabha's Early Retirement in Malaysia with MM2H
Intro
Keshav and Aabha from Coorg are eagerly planning an early retirement in Malaysia with the MM2H visa. Their below account shows how Malaysia's relaxed, low cost of living lifestyle perfectly suits those looking to retire with the aim to enjoy
the good life. Perhaps consider the couple's experience as inspiration to pursue an expatriate life for yourself?
A New Beginning for Keshav and Aabha's: Early Retirement
Keshav and his wife Aabha, a customer service representative and HR manager from Coorg in their late 50s, are ready to embark on a new chapter. They've worked diligently, saved prudently and are on the cusp of an early, comfortable retirement in a welcoming, beautiful country, one that just about ticks all the boxes: Malaysia. The couple has set out to do this together with the country's golden visa: Malaysia My Second Home visa,
MM2H
Indeed, the couple regards Malaysia as the perfect destination—close enough to India to visit family and friends, yet rich with opportunities to relax and immerse themselves in different cultures and at an unhurried pace of life
and in a way of living that suits them to a tee.
As per their calculations, their duplex in Coorg will provide a steady rental income, giving them the financial freedom to enjoy Malaysia to their heart's content. They also hold crypto investments and a decent portfolio of dividend-paying shares, giving them the means to generate extra income as they embrace their boosted lifestyle.
In fact, with their situation the way it is, Malaysia's MM2H Visa is perfect chance for Keshav and Aabha to escape mediocrity and embrace a true expat lifestyle. Courtesy of this once-in-a-lifetime lifestyle arbitrage opportunity between India and Malaysia, combined with the privileges offered by MM2H.
Resort-Living with Special MM2H Benefits
For Keshav and Aabha, property affordability is one of the most appealing aspects of Malaysia. The MM2H visa grants them access to a lower threshold for purchasing property, making it easy to secure a comfortable, spacious residence that's well within their budget. Furthermore, MM2H's flexibility also allows them to rent for a year, so they can explore the residential neighbourhoods on their preferred list before making a property decision, i.e. before settling on the home of their dreams, ideally in a leafy suburb. More about this rent-first-buy-later option below.
Incidentally, at this point, it's good to note that Malaysia's real estate prices are significantly lower than in most of the major Indian cities, which effectively means that the couple get more bang for their buck once their Rupees have been converted to Ringgit. In other words, given their finances, Keshav and Aabha are quite likely able to afford a fairly luxurious apartment, fully benefiting from their new life abroad.
Tax-Free Transfers
MM2H participants can bring funds from India into Malaysia tax-free, providing Keshav and Aabha with seamless access to their India-based savings and investments. Basically, this no-tax status enables them to transfer their dividend earnings and crypto assets gains as needed, boosting their spending power in Malaysia even more. Clearly, this tax exemption is a particularly attractive option for the couple, as these recurring remittances are often the lifeblood of expats. Frankly, not having to pay taxes on these funds is as awesome bonus.
Upgraded Lifestyle in an Expat-Friendly Environment
Malaysia's diverse expat community and top-tier amenities offer Keshav and Aabha the lifestyle upgrade they're looking for. Malaysia boasts an impressive selection of shopping malls, restaurants, entertainment and leisure activities to match any interest. From enjoying the rich local cuisine to joining social clubs and pursuing their hobbies, the couple will likely find everything they need in their adopted country. Better still, Malaysia's local Indian community and the open-mindedness of Malaysian people will make the couple feel at home swiftly, whilst also adding to the unique experience of living life as an expat.
Scenic Beauty and Ideal Travel Hub for Exploring Asia
Malaysia is renowned for its stunning natural landscapes. The mix of serene beaches, verdant hills and lively towns provides endless exploration possibilities. But beyond its beauty, Malaysia is also well-positioned as a central hub for travel within Asia. Singapore, Thailand and Indonesia are all a short hop away, enabling Keshav and Aabha to discover diverse destinations without extended travel times.
Protected from Natural Disasters and Crime Alike
Situated outside the paths of typhoons, Malaysia rarely experiences the extreme weather, or seismic episodes for that matter, that can at times affect neighbouring countries. This natural protection is complemented by an effective policing system and low crime rates, which enhance public safety across urban and rural areas. Together, these factors make Malaysia a top choice for those seeking a life free from potential environmental and social friction.
Indian Communities and Warm Local Connections
The presence of established Indian communities across Malaysia, particularly in Kuala Lumpur, Johor Bahru and Penang, will help Keshav and Aabha adjust seamlessly. They'll enjoy socializing within a familiar cultural setting, while also finding comfort in the friendliness of Malaysian locals, who are typically welcoming to expatriates. This community support network provides a sense of belonging that facilitates the transition and will probably actually incentivise the couple to engage fully with their new environment.
Comfortable Climate Without Extreme Weather
Malaysia's weather offers pleasant blue skies year-round without the intense monsoon seasons experienced in some Indian regions. Keshav and Aabha will appreciate Malaysia's steady equatorial weather, which is ideal for outdoor activities and leisure throughout the year. That said, December and January tend to be a little wetter, cooler and breezier than the rest of the year, though nothing nearly as extreme as India's monsoon of course.
Economic Growth, Modern Amenities and Leisure Options
Malaysia's steadily growing economy and advanced infrastructure offer every modern convenience Keshav and Aabha will surely revel in. With impressive malls, luxurious golf courses and exclusive yacht clubs, Malaysia is an attractive location for retirees who want to indulge in leisurely pursuits. What's more, Malaysia's thriving economy provides confidence in stable and sustainable living conditions, with a number of options for some nice luxuriousness, making it a smart choice for retirees looking to cherish the finer things in life.
Affordable, High-Quality Healthcare
One of the standout advantages of Malaysia for retirees is its high-quality healthcare at an affordable cost. Malaysia's healthcare system is well-regarded, with facilities staffed by experienced professionals, many trained internationally. It's with reason than Malaysia in one of Asia's premier healthcare tourism hubs. So this level of care, combined with the affordability of treatments and medications, gives Keshav and Aabha peace of mind, knowing they'll receive excellent care without expenses getting out of hand.
Option to Rent Before Buying a Home
The MM2H visa allows retirees to rent for a year before purchasing property, letting all newcomers experience life in a number of Malaysian residential neighbourhoods. Keshav and Aabha can explore diverse areas in Kuala Lumpur, Penang or Johor Bahru, just to name a few examples. From urban living to coastal retreats, to a mere stone's throw away from the Lion City, Singapore, it's try before you buy for the couple. Only once they've decided where to settle do they need to decide on a property. By then, it's likely to be a lovely home, one that suits each of their preferences as well as their upgraded lifestyle.
Close Proximity to India with Many Flight Options
Malaysia's accessibility from India means that Keshav and Aabha can travel back home pretty much whenever they want. Kuala Lumpur's connectivity with several Indian cities provides frequent, cost-effective flights, allowing the couple to visit family and friends in Coorg, or, vice versa, welcome visitors to their new home in Malaysia. This proximity ensures that their retirement in Malaysia doesn't feel distant or disconnected. The mere three hours time difference further adds to the sense of closeness.
Why Malaysia's MM2H Visa is the Right Fit for Keshav and Aabha
The MM2H visa provides Keshav and Aabha the freedom to retire early and comfortably in a sun-kissed country that combines affordability, convenience and adventure too. With the income generated from their rental property in Coorg and their investment assets at the ready, they'll have ample means to enjoy Malaysia's diverse experiences; from scenic locales to exciting urban life. The MM2H program's generous benefits and privileges make Malaysia the ideal retirement destination for Keshav and Aabha, offering them a secure, relaxing lifestyle. The
expat lifestyle.
Are you interested in learning more about residing in Malaysia for part of the year or longer? Visit
MM2H.in for all details.