Share the article
Last updated
Travelers pack their laptops and hit the road for amazing new experiences, all while getting paid.
Doesn’t sound like a bad gig, right? There isn’t one specific industry that caters to remote workers, but some places don’t meet the bill when it comes to the cost of living.
Southeast Asia, for the most part, is not one of those places.
With tight budgets being a top priority for digital nomads, this is one of the best regions in the world for roaming from country to country and immersing yourself in new cultures.
One particular country is one of the most attractive for digital nomads to claim as their new work area.
Here are six reasons why this Southeast Asian country is so attractive to digital nomads:
A Easy Peasy Digital Nomad Visa
Malaysia launched its digital nomad visa many months ago, and it was a success. The DE Rantau program aims to attract both local and foreign workers remotely and either stay in the country or move here from another country.
Those who ‘work from home’ can call home anywhere, but sometimes it can be a slippery slope crossing boundaries.
Taxes, visas and various immigration issues can arise when earning income abroad. On the one hand, digital nomads love that certain countries offer visas that suit their lifestyle, so they know they are welcome and abide by the rules.
The Malaysia visa is one of the easiest to obtain, with simple requirements to meet, such as an annual income of just $24,000.
Great destinations to call home
With a stay of up to 12 months, digital nomads have plenty of time to explore exciting cultural destinations in Malaysia.
although 73% of digital nomads are based here in the gigantic capital Kuala Lumpur and the fast-growing, but lesser-known region of Penang.
These two stunning yet different destinations are among the fastest growing in all of Asia for digital nomads, after Tokyo, Da Nang and Seoul.
Penang attracts digital nomads as a coastal getaway full of wonders, especially the state capital, George Town, located on a picturesque island full of cultural attractions.
Well equipped for a digital nomad takeover, the invasion has begun. It’s best to move here quickly before it loses its off-the-grid appeal.
A trio of unknown gems calling your name
If 73% of digital nomads are limited to a few areas, where is the remaining 27% in Malaysia? The truth is that they are spread all over the country.
With the continued success of the DE Rantau program, more and more destinations want to benefit from it. Kuala Lumpur may have the most fame, but Malaysia as a whole offers so much more.
The beautiful island of Langwaki, along with Sarawak and Sabah in Borneo, form a trio of little-known destinations ready to embrace remote workers.
Borneo is home to lush rainforests with a wide range of wildlife, while Langwaki offers beautiful beaches and luxury hotels such as St. Regis and Ritz Carlton.
Malaysia is super safe And affordable
Since many digital nomads venture out alone, visiting a foreign country can always be a cause for concern when it comes to safety.
The good news is that you don’t have to worry about safety here. Furthermore, Malaysia is very diverse and a majority of locals speak fluent English to add an extra layer of comfort.
Malaysia is currently at the lowest level of safety concerns Level 1: Take normal precautions by the US Department of State.
Affordability is key, which is why Southeast Asia has long been a backpacker’s paradise and the visa only requires a monthly income of $2000.
Fast internet
As an upper-middle-income country, infrastructure should not be a concern for digital nomads. The country is well equipped for digital nomads to complete their work assignments.
Major cities, especially Kuala Lumpur, will offer an abundance of cafes and co-working spaces with high-speed internet.
The same goes for Penang, where George Town is the best choice for a reliable internet connection. The DE Rantau program wants to expand, so lesser-known destinations are undergoing transformations to become better equipped and more attractive to digital nomads.
Read more:
Top 5 Travel Insurance Plans for 2023 from $10 per week
How to easily earn points for free travel
SUBSCRIBE TO OUR LATEST POSTS
Enter your email address to subscribe to the latest Travel Off Path breaking travel news, delivered straight to your inbox.
This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
