Everything That You Need to Know About Malaysia.
1. My Struggles When I First Landed
Arriving in Malaysia in 2020 was both exciting and nerve-wracking. I was filled with anticipation about what this new journey would bring. But, honestly, I had no clue what to expect. I landed in Kuala Lumpur on a rainy afternoon, jet-lagged and overwhelmed by the bustling airport.
I didn’t know how to get around, where to stay, or even what SIM card to buy. The tropical humidity hit me like a wave, and as I lugged my bags through the airport, I wondered, “What have I gotten myself into?”
2. The Challenges of Settling In
In my first few days, everything felt like a challenge. Finding accommodation was stressful. I scrolled endlessly through housing apps, trying to figure out the best neighborhoods. Many ads seemed confusing, and communicating with landlords wasn’t always smooth.
Even the little things were hard—getting my hands on local currency, figuring out where to buy groceries, and making sense of the public transport system. I remember getting lost on the monorail more than once, and for a moment, it felt like I’d never get used to things.
3. Exploring New Places and Finding Comfort
Once I settled into a cozy apartment in Bukit Bintang, the journey slowly got easier. I started exploring nearby places—Petronas Towers, KL Tower, and the beautiful parks like Perdana Botanical Gardens. Slowly, Malaysia began to feel like home.
Cafes and night markets became my go-to places when I needed to clear my head. The famous Jalan Alor street food market became a weekly tradition where I’d grab dinner and enjoy the lively nightlife.
4. My First Experiences with Malaysian Food
Malaysian cuisine is something I’ll never forget. I fell in love with nasi lemak—a fragrant rice dish cooked in coconut milk, served with fried anchovies, sambal, and a boiled egg. The flavors were bold and unfamiliar at first, but soon I was hooked.
Trying roti canai for breakfast and char kway teow in Penang became culinary highlights of my journey. Each meal felt like a new discovery and connected me with the culture in a way nothing else could.
5. Navigating Public Transport Like a Pro
Learning the public transport system took some time, but once I got the hang of it, it became a lifesaver. The MRT, LRT, and Monorail networks connect the city efficiently, and apps like Moovit and Grab helped me plan routes and get taxis easily.
It’s crucial for any newcomer to get a Touch ‘n Go card. This smart card simplifies payments for public transport and tolls and saves you from the hassle of carrying cash all the time.
6. A Beginner’s Guide for Travelers in Malaysia
If you’re new to Malaysia, here are a few steps to get you started smoothly:
- Accommodation: Platforms like iBilik and Mudah are great for finding apartments. Look for places near MRT or LRT stations to save on transport.
- SIM Cards: Opt for Celcom or Digi for affordable internet plans. You can find them at the airport or convenience stores.
- Food Markets: Don’t miss the night markets for affordable meals. Try Jalan Alor or Kampung Baru for a variety of local dishes.
- Transport: Download Grab for easy taxi rides and plan ahead with apps like Moovit to avoid getting lost.
7. Essential Tips for Surviving and Thriving
- Language Barrier: Most Malaysians speak English, but picking up a few Malay phrases will make interactions smoother.
- Weather: Always carry an umbrella or a poncho—the tropical rains are unpredictable.
- Cultural Sensitivity: Be mindful of local customs. For example, dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
- Budgeting: Malaysia is affordable, but costs in KL can add up. Track expenses using apps like Spendee.
- Make Friends: Joining local meetups or Facebook groups for expats can help you make friends and adjust faster.
Conclusion
Looking back, my first month in Malaysia was a rollercoaster of emotions, from confusion to comfort. What began as a challenging experience turned into an unforgettable journey of self-discovery. Exploring new places, tasting exotic foods, and learning to navigate a foreign city were daunting but rewarding challenges.
If you’re planning to visit or move to Malaysia, embrace the struggles—they are part of the adventure. With a bit of patience and a spirit of exploration, this beautiful country will open its doors to you, just like it did for me.
-The Untold Path
