Malaysia’s success as top 10 countries for retirement a well-deserved recognition

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia’s achievement in securing the 8th spot globally as the best retirement destination is a recognition for the nation, renowned for its multicultural society.

Universiti Malaysia Kelantan deputy vice-chancellor, Prof Datuk Dr Nik Maheran Nik Muhammad, said it is no surprise that the country is listed among the top 10, given its unique ambience capable of attracting expatriates to settle here.

“Malaysia offers a highly versatile environment, where individuals can choose whether to settle in rapidly developing urban areas or in rural regions to enjoy natural surroundings, spanning from Kuala Lumpur to Sabah,” she said when contacted by Bernama.

In February, International Living’s Annual Global Retirement Index 2024 listed Malaysia as among the 10 best places to retire, surpassing France and Colombia, which ranked 9th and 10th, respectively.

Nik Maheran highlighted that alongside the low cost of living and the rich culinary landscape, the Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) programme, initiated in 2002, has been instrumental in attracting individuals to Malaysia due to its unique initiatives.

Elena Sotnik, a 61-year-old Russian citizen, fell in love with Malaysia the moment she arrived in the country in 1999, and she intends to continue calling Kuantan, Pahang, her home.

Elena fondly remembers the warmth and hospitality of Malaysians since her first day here, even though they were complete strangers to her. “Wherever I go, people always greet me with a smile, and eventually, I came to realise that it’s a part of Malaysian hospitality. I also cherish the diversity here. Once, a friend in Russia asked me about the celebrations in Malaysia, and I replied that there were too many.