What compels someone to move from Singapore to JB? Well, for a Singapore couple in their mid-40s living in Queenstown, the desire to move away from the ever-more competitive Singapore lifestyle is just one of the reasons. After years of working long hours and squirrelling away their savings, they're now in a prime position to slow down and smell the coffee, embrace a more easy-going life just across the Causeway in JB. The prospect of living like expats, with affordable luxury and still have easy access to Singapore, makes the move a winning choice.

Lifestyle Change
This couple no longer feels the need to compete in Singapore's hectic, high-stress environment. In JB, they can pace themselves more and enjoy a more peaceful life, yet simultaneously still remain close to Singapore. Recreation-wise, whether they choose to explore the rest of Malaysia or focus on leisure travel overseas, living in JB provides them with financial freedom, as well as the ideal launching platform to explore the world around them.

Financial Perks
By renting out their Singapore property, the couple can tap into the high rental income available in Singapore, especially when the SGD is converted to Ringgit. The very favourable exchange rate, combined with JB's lower cost of living allows them to stretch their Sing dollars a lot further, enjoying a more atas lifestyle, in all likelihood without even compromising their savings. This financial strategy allows them to retire early comfortably, or, if they feel like it, simply work the gig economy. Either way, they'll be under a lot less stress, whilst also being able to spend more quality time together.

Rent First, Then Buy
Before committing to purchasing a home in JB, the couple can stay in a condo or a landed property in one of JB's upscale neighbourhoods, for instance. This gives them a chance to explore the area, try out different locations and then decide where they'd like to settle long-term. After, say, several months, they can decide to go ahead and buy a property, taking advantage of the relatively lower property market rates compared to Singapore. However, as a general note, it's probably wise not to wait too long, as it appears that more and more Singaporeans are making the move JB, resulting in some upwards pressure on JB properties.

Healthcare and Quality of Life
Living in JB doesn't mean sacrificing quality healthcare. On the contrary. In fact, several Singaporean-based medical groups have set up clinics in JB, offering high-quality, yet affordable care, like Gleneagles Medini and Regency Specialist Hospital, each CPF/Medisave-approved for patient convenience. Crucial for a couple approaching middle age. Moreover, the more outdoorsy lifestyle in JB allows them to enjoy nature and breathe fresh air, both conducive for our health.

MM2H — The Secure Way to Stay
Whilst JB is just across the border, relying on the 30-day ASEAN social pass isn't really a sustainable option. Immigration authorities may eventually raise red flags after multiple consecutive visits, potentially leading to a possible "NTL" (Not To Land) entry stamp, or worse: getting grey listed or even blacklisted. In view of this, to ensure long-term stability, the couple is advised to opt for the Malaysia My Second Home visa, such as MM2H Silver or SEC/SFZ. MM2H provides a secure way to reside in JB, without the risk of visa issues. Better still, nowadays, MM2H is easier than ever to get approved for.

So for Singaporeans looking to shift back a few gears, keen to enjoy a better quality of life, JB offers the perfect solution. With the financial benefits of renting out a Singapore home, the favourable SGD/MYR exchange rate, the enviable, ever so easy-going lifestyle, as well as the MM2H-related tax exemptions on remitted funds from overseas, JB is becoming the go-to destination for Singaporeans ready to embrace life in the slow lane. Best part? You can pop over to Singapore at any time, especially once the RTS is up and running.

Who said that having your cake and eating your cake isn't possible?