Quality of life in MALAYSIA vs USA (honest opinion)

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Discussing my thoughts about the quality of life here in Malaysia vs America.
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#malaysia #penang #kualalumpur

[@benfishermin]

⚠️ WATCH NEXT: The REAL Reason I Came to Malaysia (why I left NYC)... m.kzbin.info/www/bejne/hoWTe3qoh7-Fj8k&pp=iAQB

[@ronlombok1677]

Love went sour (joking only)?😂😂😂

[@chloeahn3825]

I like how clean and simple you look. Very peaceful to listen to. Hahaha. Unlike most youtubers I've watched. Sticky sweaty untidy hahahahahahahahahha don't get angry guys. I'm just being cheeky.

[@ayengganu91]

Are y0u jewish br0??

[@ayengganu91]

N0t being racist 0r hatred..usually name ben fr0m rabbi??my english n0t perfect..s0rry..😅😅😅😅..

[@ahmadkamilmohamed7790]

In my opinion, you have made a very rational, truthful and insightful comparative analysis of both worlds. I have stayed in the United States for almost five years. I have scary moments while travelling and being in NY, Chicago and LA at night even just to stop to fill up your car with gas at the gas station.

[@Natalie_J0rdan]

Born in Michigan. Moved & Grew up in Florida and spent most of my time there. Sadly, what you say is true though. Finally I get to travel out and flew from the US to South East Asia. Been to Thailand, Philippines, Malaysia, Vietnam, Cambodia, Indonesia & Singapore. I have to admit, Malaysia is my favorite country. Food & Culture wise.. Top tier👌🏻Visited few of their major States including the Borneo sides, I can't get enough ❤

[@uncledan2u]

Most welcomed to visit us again my dear brother from Malaysia 🇲🇾

[@yazzul7807]

Retiring in Kota Kinabalu is ideal

[@lizapany9728]

Borneo is amazing!

[@azrulashraf00]

Wow better than Singapore huh, nice 😊.

[@reikaratnam]

Escapism much?

[@KayyAhmad]

My late husband was from Arizona. He received his benefits(pension in Msia) almost US2000 a month. He moved to Johor in 2009 settled down with me after we met online in 2008. With the exchange rate Alhamdulillah his benefits was more than enough for us living in a town in Johor. If he lived in the US he had to work even in his 60s his benefits won't be enough. He enjoyed his life especially being a revert he can go to the mosque 5 times a day/practiced Islam freely.

[@benfishermin]

Yea that 2000 will go so much further here than trying to make it work in the US, it just wouldn’t be possible.

[@Idaleasofia24]

When I retire, I will return to Malaysia. Eventhough I love USA and I have several properties and assets in USA, my heart is still in Malaysia.

[@stmpo5595]

Sell your properties in USA and convert it to Ringgit as Malaysia needs the inflow of USD

[@DemoNinja79]

Dont come back here and bring your feminist garbage ideology tho. Leave it in the States.

[@Darklightwithlight]

​@@stmpo5595😂😂😂😂😂😂 USD better lah😂😂😂😂😂

[@Darklightwithlight]

​@@stmpo5595no USD. Tomorrow he in malaysia become begger. No income finish.

[@stmpo5595]

@@Darklightwithlight 🤣🤣🤣🤣 yes, USD is better at this moment but US govt is in high debt. BRICS are trying to dethrone USD as world currency. I suggest to him/her as he/she has said his/her heart is still in Malaysia. So he or she can sell the properties and move back to Malaysia. Do you understand?

[@luqman1983]

I’m a Malaysian n hv been to 28 countries mostly Europe and Asian. In terms of quality of life, hands down no country can beat Malaysia.

[@mtzyzy]

I ve met some malaysian travellers who been to 50+ countries all over the world and still hard to find equals in terms of quality of life and the varieties of human being living in the same country ...

[@paranormalaktiviti5686]

Sombong amat

[@Symenify]

I’ve travelled to approx > 20 countries as well. Malaysia is truly a gem.

[@KhalixMR]

I've been to barely 10 countries, but every visit reminded me of why I should be thankful that Malaysia is home. Every time MAS bid welcome to Malaysian, I get teary.

[@alimichalkan8046]

Truthfully there are so many places that seem to have better quality of living (cause I travel a lot too).. I have thoughts of living in Perth (prices are quite affordable there), Japan (just love the culture, etc but at the end of the day, though Malaysia sure have a lot of issues lately, Malaysia will always be in my heart so I still can’t get myself to migrate.

[@jeffrythoksapan]

Many local didn’t travel abroad they wouldn’t believe till they got at oversea, I’m as Malaysian which travel long enough to Europe fell so lucky as Malaysian… only pay Rm1 for my medical at general hospital.

[@az-fy3mp]

yea man haha. last time i went hospital RM1 get blood test, CT scan, ekg heart check and also include the medicine etc too.

[@saffaainaa129]

But sadly the Malaysian healthcare workers are underpaid and understaffed....

[@mtzyzy]

​@@saffaainaa129 in gov healthcare maybe yes (still higher compared to other gov job) , and this year the gov will upgrade gov staff salary by 13% or more , not much but you will see more happy faces surely , but in private sector healthcare they get paid more for less work...

[@eddylee7786]

It's amazing that you are not sweating buckets walking and filming like that, under the sun, walking and talking 😅

[@Catreturn]

​@saffaainaa129 It s egg and chicken, raise salaries and food prices go up.

[@UrAvgGamer]

As a Malaysian who's not always happy with my own country I'm grateful for your video. Sometimes I need to be reminded of the good stuff we have and not take it for granted.

[@benfishermin]

Thanks glad you enjoyed the video 🙌

[@darrylk808]

In S.E. Asia you can live in a hotel for less than the cost of rent in a major US city. Every time I leave Malaysia I get a homesick feeling, and I'm not from Malaysia! 🤣

[@rickywong2030]

This happen to a lot of visitor when leaving Malaysia. Most will return again very soon.

[@darrylk808]

@@rickywong2030 so I might not have been Malaysian in a prior life?😁

[@juliashireen6195]

😂😂😂

[@uncledan2u]

Welcome to visit Malaysia 🇲🇾 again and again 😁✌️

[@countzero74]

I know that feeling all too well. When we returned from our first visit in 23, they almost had to drag us on the plane. Fortunately we'll return in October of this year. We can't wait!

[@countzero74]

My girlfriend and I went to Malaysia in March of 23, and we have been in love with the country ever since. KL's Chinatown...man, you have got to go there to believe it. When we retire, we'll move from Germany to Malaysia, and that's a fact. Working on making the money you need for the visa right now, and also looking forward to our next trip in October. Tian Jing Hotel, here we come!

[@benfishermin]

Awesome, I agree it’s a great place to live. I lived in Berlin for a few years and loved it but I’d surely rather retire in Malaysia!

[@daddiy7427]

October is in the Monsoon season. Insane torrential rain. So, umbrella, raincoat and water proof shoes.

[@Karg537]

Get a remote job from europe and work in malaysia. The euro tax going to eat into your savings.

[@dannys-beverage-world]

For all the non-Americans listening to Ben right now.. Ben is speaking the gospel truth.. Amazing video ..

[@alwaystamazight]

Funny!

[@kkoodpi]

Its good to be white males in KL, not quite the same for young non malay locals. Best to avoid conflict, stay away from trouble especially where young people congregate on bikes. If you are ever involved in an accident with a grab or delivery person on a motorbike, remember not to argue with him. If other bikers stop with their helmets removed, trouble is not far away. Otherwise all good.

[@dannys-beverage-world]

@@kkoodpi it is true what you're saying I heard the Muslims are not treating malay and the Chinese not very good not treating them equally... I don't think I would be too worried about the moped guys... After living in the U.S. you have Hell's Angels and the White Aryan Brotherhood... These two groups of bikers the blacks and the Mexicans both fear them... They control the prisons they have to separate them in the prison..

[@TreiHutchinson]

If you are able to work remotely .. online, your job in the US or UK, yet you can remotely live in Malaysia with the US or UK payroll .. then it's heaven here

[@jedrashidul6952]

Truth. I do remote work & earning in USD. Currently living in Alor Setar MY. It's awesome

[@danialwrx]

@@jedrashidul6952 good for you buddy

[@kemalluxia8305]

​@@jedrashidul6952what u do for living 😮

[@AhmadAshrinAbdulJalil]

RM5k is comfortable level of income for a single person in Malaysia

[@wishyouwerehere1982]

Exactly. But still depends how to manage the financial

[@khairulhamzah5622]

dont say that. are u live under u own house?

[@azmanahmad8808]

RM4k also very comfortable for single person but must wise find the good accomodation

[@caspeansea9619]

RM5k is actually more than enough for a family living lol.

[@apair4002]

​@@caspeansea9619 Small family outside KL, Selangor, Penang.

[@thetruth3462]

In general, Malaysians are easy to get along with and foreigners will feel welcomed and safe.

[@DemoNinja79]

Yeah unfortunately. Thats why they take advantage of locals.

[@Catreturn]

Malaysia was British colonialised. They understand westerners.

[@DemoNinja79]

What pisses me off is that they get treated better here than we would if we travelled to their country.

[@RAW-zw5jt]

​@@DemoNinja79 I dont have a problem with that. In some parts of Europe, some, though few dislike tourists. It's just their thing. Just go to places you feel comfortable. We do our thing here coz we are proud of our country and welcome others. Some Malaysians too dislike foreigners esp from Asian countries who have some history of crimes here.

[@DemoNinja79]

@@RAW-zw5jt they dislike Asians because they think we are all disease- ridden third world countries.

[@biawak42pai]

In Sibu, Sarawak (Borneo), my Mom’s monthly expenses is about RM 200 which is less than USD 50 per month. While many things are getting more expensive, but food generally still cheap, especially when you choose to cook at home. She lives near the Sibu Airport, not more than half hour away. So as a Sarawakian, I am blessed to be able to choose a smaller town to retire. And we do not need much. We can live in Sibu very comfortably with just USD 1K

[@nur_aryani]

I have a Sarawakian colleague (in Singapore)…envy him coz he has a place to retire to that won’t be expensive, like us in Singapore. Planning to visit Sarawak soon.

[@aidaninspire8381]

i would love to visit there ,,, sounds so nice,, tell me when your next there, can catch up

[@terataibiru4997]

@@nur_aryaniSarawakians & Sabahans are very kind & friendly people... btw i m frm Penisular Malaysia..

[@alimichalkan8046]

True. Though so many things are getting more and more expensive, if you look at the overall cost, it is still affordable for middle household income. I guess living in KL would be difficult for those earning less than 15k per household, yet there are still some places in Malaysia that you can still get rm0.80 for a plain roti canai. So I guess it depends on where do you want to live.

[@second_second_]

i wish i have a hometown somewhere other than cities like KL too, in town rural areas. KL is getting too expensive for non-rich people like me. I wanna retire somewhere nice but no money to buy land even in rural areas :(

[@user-mt4lg1tl7w]

It is insane how you can walk down a few streets fast-paced, talk to the camera, film and cross roads like that.

[@mardhiyanasaedon8839]

yeah, it did look dangerous jaywalking like that, maybe you could choose more safer walkaway or garden area or near safer resting area/waterfall/seaside or restaurant then make your review/reaction... bit scary for me to see, stay safe n healthy

[@TheAsiahb]

plus under the Malaysian heat for 26 minutes!🥵🥵

[@reikaratnam]

More insane how much males babble non stop nowadays

[@ketot_]

Senyum itu sedekah. Sedekah membawa berkat. Berkat, aura positif utk diri dan masyarakat.

[@edgehogR]

As a malaysian myself, i dont know how on earth u can walk the streets like that in the afternoon, its so so hot...lol

[@Karg537]

For 15 mins that is fine

[@AymanHuzaini]

Ben..thank you so much for the positive comments about Malaysia! We are honoured and hope you are comfortable here.Do let it be known to anyone you can find in your workplace or even in the streets if you need any help...most of us are ever glad to help anytime anyway...have a good time bro!❤👍

[@patrickjebireden1286]

Thank you for the positives about Malaysia ma'an.

[@eat_ze_bugs]

I've had similar experiences when visiting Malaysia. Been thinking of moving there for a while now.

[@uncledan2u]

You are most welcome here my dear friend 🇲🇾✌️

[@zaharizak]

@7:10 I lived in Dublin, Ohio for a couple of years and I can tell you the average Americans are really really nice people. My wife wears hijab, you know, like most Malay women here... and never, never did she experience any negative moment there. My two sons went to the elementary and the middle school and the teachers were so so nice. It's the neighborhood I guess. We were lucky to get into a nice one.

[@mlsi2499]

i don't think you will encounter much overt racism now in the US. I hope not. people know they have to politically correct. also, thankfully, many people are truly less racist than before. I know a guy who is considered white by man white people although he's from central asia. one time, he was walking around his college with two white american classmates. Let's call them WA1 and WA2. WA1 suddenly said that the university they're attending at then was for white guys only at one point. WA2 immediately shushed WA1. what happened most likely was because WA1 felt that my friend was white so he didn't feel the need to hide his feelings. WA2 knew that my friend was a foreign student so he was more cautious. i do'nt mean to criticize anyone. racism or xenophobia (which i think is more appropriate) is a natural feeling that everyone has. i'm just being realistic about the situation.

[@conanga]

Zaharizak .. salama'laikum. We were there at Dublin transit home until we purchased a home in Hilliard, OH.

[@zaharizak]

@@conanga Alaykum salam. We did not cross path or maybe we did.

[@stewart-oj6qw]

Welcome to Malaysia Ben. Hope to meet you to bring you around to eat good local chinese, malay and indian food in Klang Valley.

[@lokrj]

I do not usually spend my time watching videos of foreigners excessively praising Malaysia, but I genuinely enjoy listening to your refreshing and insightful perspectives here.

[@benfishermin]

Thanks glad to hear that 🙏😁

[@Yasin_Affandi]

In Malaysia, mostly but not all, people can still enjoy a reasonably good quality of life with the current cost of living, it's not that cheap, yet it's still affordable.

[@Yasin_Affandi]

In your opinion, what are the major causes of the high inflation and cost of living in a fully developed country such as USA. In Malaysia, since the last decade, there's an unhealthy trend of rising cost of living despite of the controlled inflation, and I don't like my prophecy of where Malaysia is heading towards in the future. Malaysia wants to be a country with a high income per capita, but not at the expense of the middle income earners especially the low income earners who are still struggling with day to day expenses. You might not see it but that's the reality. It's not all that rosy and blooming everywhere in Malaysia. Like in USA and elsewhere in the world, 10% of each country's population owns 90% wealth of the country and, vice versa, 90% of the country's population only owns 10% wealth of the country. Bizarre.

[@ameliaong6783]

My sentiments are the same! I am also curious to know, although it sounds typically like a capitalistic approach problem. I suppose it depends on how greedy the rich wants to get.

[@Yasin_Affandi]

@@ameliaong6783 Last decade, a well known German TV Program, DW, made a documentary about greed. It seemed that the wealth around the world are possessed by less than 10% population, holding more than 90% of the total world's wealth. And more than 90% of the world's population only hold less than 10% of the world's wealth. A bizzare scenario with inequality that creates imbalances in every sense. I've yet to read any economist view on the true causes of inflation and the ever rising cost of living. We probably should be thankful that Malaysia hasn't joined the rank of the 1st world nation with a high GDP income per capita, it's just a status, a median. Once Malaysia in the high income per capita, be rest assured that the cost of living will be as ridiculous as in the fully developed country, and many Malaysian in the middle and low income group will suffer further. Can our government, economists, strategic thinkers, policy makers create a conducive environment that will enable everyone sustain the burdern of rising cost of living? Time will tell. 😀

[@julianunderwood6615]

As a Malaysian hearing what you have to say...i am blessed especially hearing you describe how good I have it here compared to the many that dream to want to live in a Western society. Even medical attention is affordable to most.

[@bboon999]

ถ้าราคาค่าครองชีพในอเมริกามันสูงจนเกินไป ก็ควรจะหาทางย้าย ฉันคงไม่จมปลักอยู่ที่เดิมๆแน่นอน เพื่อคุณภาพชีวิตที่ดีกว่า อย่างที่คุณบอก มีคนหลายคนย้ายออกจากที่นั่นมาอยู่เอเซียตะวันออกเฉียงใต้มากมาย หากคิดจะย้ายคุณต้องมีความกล้าพอ อย่ากลัว ไม่เช่นนั้นทุกอย่างก็เหมือนเดิม

[@razifaziz3483]

Thanks for the kind words, Malaysia is affordable but there are still some issues. The minimum wage here is approximately between $350-400 here in MY. It's still low in comparison to the rising cost of living. If most of us earn $1000 here then we would have no complaints. From my perspective, Malaysians are lucky, our land is fertile and filled with wealth. But, our politicians are not transparent and corruption is what holding our country from flourishing. But, I have pride in my fellow Malaysians, we are diverse, that's why we are filled with colors and flavors. We honor traditions & religions, so respect ours and you will find yourselves treated like royalty cause that's one of our traditions in receiving guests. We are very laid-back and chill type of people. Most S.E Asian country are actually.

[@reikaratnam]

Peoples fault for allowing things to turn out as it has

[@razifaziz3483]

@@reikaratnam True. To propel our country is through better education & awareness. To fought against corruption one must have integrities and moral conviction. But looking at most businessmen in MY. We encourage and contribute to this ongoing corruption, even at the ground level.

[@simonlee3453]

Thanks for sharing, Ben. I lived in California, USA, for almost 30 years and recently moved back to Malaysia. Thanks to the exchange rate, I managed to retire early and enjoy a decent lifestyle. If I had continued living in California, I don't think I would have ever been able to retire. However, it has taken me some time to readjust to the lifestyle in Malaysia, and I'm experiencing a bit of reverse culture shock. It's very sad to inform those who wish to move to the USA that the middle class is disappearing. The American dream is really just a dream now. I encourage people to travel to America to explore the culture and sights, but dreaming of making it big is unlikely-maybe it was possible 30 or 40 years ago, but not now. Every country has its pros and cons; no place is perfect! Keep that in mind. America has its political challenges, just like Malaysia. Fortunately, I still think people in Malaysia are much friendlier, and they get along pretty well despite the political issues. Overall, Malaysia is a great country to live in, not to mention the amazing food. Though I do miss a good plate of real Caesar salad sometimes... lol!

[@reikaratnam]

The anerican dream is a nightmare lolz

[@Nasrul78]

I'm US citizen by birth but parents and family all Malaysian. All is affordable here and courtesy is their culture. My income is small as a general contractor in Malaysia compare to my friends in the US who is a painter. Painter= RM16K starter in US. Contractor Company Owner(me in Malaysia)= RM3K only....But life here is what my Fiance love, and she will moved out of Washington and settled down with me ASAP just because of reasonable cost of living in Malaysia.

[@ROYAL_REBEL]

Are you sure you were born in the States?

[@Nasrul78]

​@@ROYAL_REBEL birth cert, us passport and 9 inc cock says it all

[@ROYAL_REBEL]

@@Nasrul78 But I'm pretty sure you didn't grow up in the States because your ENGLISH is atrocious.🤣🤣🤣

[@ROYAL_REBEL]

@@Nasrul78 Why is your English horrible? lol

[@Nasrul78]

Born and stayed in the States only 6 month

[@England66hs]

Having lived in England for 18 years in London. Travelled to more than 30 countries. It is not wrong to say that Malaysia ranks about the top five countries in the world. It depends on how you measure it. It is not for everyone. It is not perfect. But now I decided to come back to Penang.

[@benfishermin]

Agreed it feels like a good life in Malaysia, or nice place to spend time traveling

[@SpeedQuber671]

Born and grew up in Singapore but migrated to Malaysia when I was 12. Then went to college and worked in America and lived there 12 years. When I quit my job as a civil engineer ( I made good money) to move back to Malaysia, my boss thought I was crazy. ( I bet he's thinking 3rd world country impoverished). My life much better here. Way better. Will never go back to both Singapore and US.

[@benfishermin]

Nice, that US civil engineer money can go far here, too bad you can’t do it online from here and keep earning that salary.

[@vicstar9436]

We eat Malaysian food very often.Hawkers we call it.Its our go to always👍In Western Australia.

[@benfishermin]

Long live the hawker stall 😁😁

[@uncledan2u]

​@@benfishermin 😂👍✌️

[@CHEA1111]

Malaysia - free medical, summer all year long, tastier food, no guns US - large country, higher purchasing power, cheap car, bigger houses, best universities

[@AIisMyBff]

Enjoyed this episode. Thanks for sharing.

[@liteofhope105]

I am planning to move Malaysia with my family in a few year

[@the7asmann]

Much appreciate about this video!

[@roszynon]

Ben, if you happen to be around Shah Alam or Petaling Jaya and need some help, don’t hesitate to contact us.

[@Zichoe]

and this is why kl is one of the most visited cities in the world and one of the best cities for expat

[@neal1006]

It amazes me how you could tread in that scorching heat & vlog

[@benfishermin]

All in a days work 😁

[@cheehoulow6026]

Mr.Ben you are welcome and continue to live peacefully and stress free in Malaysia with USD 1000. Food in Malaysia are super delicious..and various to choose from....

[@jackoneil3933]

Thanks so much Ben for your impressions and insights, much appreciated! What you relate strongly echos what my sentiments when Penang was my home away from home for a while towards the end of the last century. Now with things much different in the U.S. and considering returning to Malaysia as an early working retirement, I reflected ion what you shared and felt compelled to share some some of those reflections in case it might be of interest to others. What resonated most was your overwhelmingly positive differences in interactions between Malaysia and America and what I lamented wherever I had to return to the U.S... A couple of times in Japan and Penang while at the airport waiting to board a flight back to the America I was pushing back tears thinking of what I was leaving and returning to. One time when I returned to the U.S and a friend who had also just returned from the Philippines with his wife asked how my three months in Penang were, I said I was very sad to leave. He flashed a forlorn look and then with a smile and said, "Yea it's tough when it comes time to come back to this place, you're at the airport and you start tearing up and stuff..." Friends and family could not understand why I preferred living in Malaysia and Japan, but when I showed them photos some remarked "He looks happy". As for food, I never craved what I was accustom to in America when in Japan or Thailand, but eventually in Malaysia I longed to set in a cool, comfortable and quiet restaurant and order up a burger, some Italian food or a fresh salad, or enjoying a thanksgiving dinner of turkey, mashed potatoes and vegetables. Maybe the food options and quality in Malaysia is better now, but a couple of decades and longer ago options were mostly the popular Malay, Indian and Chinese fare that was often on the heavy, fried, fatty side, and often drenched in MSG and inflammatory palm or soy oil, and with a sensitive digestive system, just as in America now I found it challenging even in Penang and made do at home a lot. Also, while I really never got sick in Japan, China, Korea or Thailand, In Malaysia as in Mexico), even being cautious I got ill, a couple of times seriously, as I now experience in America as restaurant quality and safety of food an produce has seriously declined. In regards to crime in the U.S. : Growing up in Oregon and Alaska I never thought much about crime as you describe you life in Malaysia, that was until recently here in Oregon where all drugs were legalized, and police stopped caring about other minor and major crimes. Mental illness and rage disorders are now at such a level it has a major impact on quality of life, and sense of well being. In the last few years I've had guns puled on me not by robbers but road-ragers and meth-a-lated angerholics who see an old guy out for some exercise on an ebike is an easy outlet for their murderous rage. With events such as the culture and political riots in Portland and much of the West coast and what some most notably in Congress are now holding committees on what's being called the weaponization of government against regular citizens, and with some recent personal encounters I've had while seeking service from government and police that were outlandish and frighting, that if I had experienced them in any other country as a visitor I would flee and never return. I've had police pull guns on me three times in 5 years, once after locking keys in my car, once for recording police violence against a peaceful christian event in support of local candidates and opposition to our governor's actions ruled unconstitutional in a superior court. And a third during an unlawful traffic stop where I was falsely accused by a pshchotric police officer, and later acquitted of felony traffic violations that my dash cam showed I was not even in the area were I alleged to have been. As for crime in Malaysia: I did encounter crime in Malaysia. Friends from America once returned to their home in Penang and noticed a patio door open, and thought they forgot to close it, however upon entering the home they encountered a burglary in progress. The perpetrators were but illegal aliens, who in a panic fled the home shoving the wife down on the patio causing a skull fracture and concussion. In the process the perpetrator who knocked her down dropped a knife. Police quickly apprehend the three burglars and the armed bugler who caused the injury and was ratted out by his accomplices as also being a drug trafficker and ended up being hung, which caused the wife who was injured some grief as she testified to police she thought the intent was to escape rather then cause injury. Once in Penang while taking a late night mountain shortcut from Tanjung Bunga to Georgetown, my girlfriend and I were stopped by three Pakistani illegal aliens. One, an elderly emaciated man opened his shirt and displayed a very rusted and dull cane-cutting cutlass and sheepishly plead for money saying "Kind sir, we are hungry we need money, we don't want trouble" I chuckled and gave him a pack of Cigarettes I keep handy for the cops and a couple of hundred Ringgit. He thanked me put his hands together and said "God Bless you" and We drove off. I found the encounter sad and a bit comical, but My girlfriend was terrified over over it, never having experienced anything like it, and A couple of days later she showed me in a newspaper report where other cars had been stopped and reported it to police, and the three were apprehended and charged with armed robbery . As I recall, the old man and maybe even the other two who put him up to the robbery were eventually hung. When I later took that same road, My girlfriend protested and I pointed out that after the our robbers were hung the chances were pretty slim of it happening again, and that road was safer than most of the U.S. When I visited Malaysia a few years ago petty crime in Penang seemed to be more common than I experienced years before but not on anywhere on the level of relatively safe areas of America. Government While my limited interactions with government in Malaysia were bureaucratically frustrating like few times where police politely extorted a $20 to $30 dollar bribe in a fake traffic stop, but I would rather be extorted for $30 rather than the tens or hundreds of thousands of dollars most will pay in government and corporate greed in America, Canada and even Europe over their lifetimes. In terms of quality of life and cost of living , what we are being robbed of not just money but life, and if you can find a place where less of your life is taken from you get more life. Looking forward to more from you and Malaysia, Cheers!

[@THALJIMDKADRI]

tq for the real comments but to keep crime to zero is possible with the punishment is like the saudis

[@reikaratnam]

Cant imagine a pakistani speaking that politely in english

[@jackoneil3933]

@@reikaratnam Why? Have you been to Pakistan?

[@twong6531]

Found this vid by chance. Very honest, straight down. I subscribed! right away. I like Ben's clarity and honesty.

[@jamesmosier7186]

Excellent video Ben

[@raymondch33]

The background ambient is so good that I thought I am walking backwards with you, nice oneee

[@PraTaeTae]

Quality of life is good if you're earning in USD and living in Malaysia. Most locals are still struggling tho.

[@benfishermin]

Yea this is true!

[@salqubeq5203]

Very good comparison on relevant variables b/w countries. These are the key ingredients to judge a country. Good job & thanks for sharing

[@Hrangue]

I'm a Philly native and I'm planning a trip to KL and other parts of SEA for the fall. I'm scouting to see where I can relocate in the future.

[@hisyamismail1083]

I like your explanations of the differences. Easy to understand.

[@joelingram3124]

Yeah, gotta agree with your take on things. I’ve lived in various countries in Asia and I have come to pretty much the same conclusion on each area you talked about.

[@kajakun]

Few years ago my wife had a tumor removal surgery. The bill was closed to RM20,000. But we paid RM0. At the bottom of the bill notes, "Paid by the Government."

[@thaidawg9231]

Good video Ben. I was in KL last year, really impressed. I currently live in Thailand, but would really like to move to KL or Penang, My pension would afford me a good quality of life there, but the cost of the retirement visa is not within my means.

[@toray424]

I'm not sure which visa you are trying to get. Latest MM2H visa, you only need to put RM500k fixed deposit in Malaysian bank for 5 years visa. And the money is still yours, so you are actually not paying anything, except agent fee if you hire one.

[@tessaroma1970]

When you go from USA to South East Asia yes, everything seems to be cheap but not so cheap for locals

[@rs5801]

Hi Ben very articulate vlog about modern day US vs. life in SE Asia. Agree completely. Been retired upcountry Thailand since 2005 after 30+ yrs. in Hawaii. Upon arrival on visits back to US West Coast could feel subtle undercurrent of anxiety in both freinds and family- always present. That started about 2015 or so. Haha maybe it was because I was there? Seriously, I think things have changed in the US forever not for the better. Everyone's seems on edge. Last year's trip (after no trips since 2019) experienced total sticker shock at prices of everything. As a young backpacker, Mexico, Central America, SE Asia were always my faves. Old guy now- Thailand is home sweet home.

[@pawancheekmarican320]

thanks for your comment. instructive.

[@yaseen2703]

This is amazing Ben thanks for sharing! I am from Canada, and you would think we as Canadians are living in a third world country its craazy. I was in Malaysia back in February and was amazed how people live there, the food, and the places to see just incredible . Definitely plan on going back again soon.

[@benfishermin]

Glad you enjoyed it. I've never been to Canada but I imagine it's relatively similar to the US in many ways with the way things are progressing (same with places like Australia and the UK)

[@yaseen2703]

@@benfishermin ohh man it's a shit hole out here il tell you that aha. Not like what it used to be. Currently working on my escape plan. I plan moving to Malaysia hopefully by the start of the new year. 🙏🏾

[@4keystone1]

Good, honest video Ben! Gotta ask, what city and neighborhood were you walking around in while videoing? My wife and I liked the vibe. We always have a great time in Malaysia when we are fortunate enough to be able to visit.

[@najairashid3976]

In Penang island or Pulau Pinang

[@user-uy6yu6mm5r]

You experienced lived in Malaysia.You know the thruth about our coutry.Sometimes outsiders like to smears and talks bad things about our country.

[@williamhartz8707]

I lived in Malaysia for three years and like I commented on another of your KZbin blogs, you have to travel outside of Kuala Lumpur to the rural provinces to get a real perspective of the country . I have lived in five different countries overseas (because of employment) and some countries have a better life style than others. In the USA though it is a "wealthy country" the income disparity is quite a difference. For example, 10% of Americans own 93% of the stock market wealth. And according to statistics, there is a dwindling Middle Class due to inflation and low wages. Of course we cannot compare a developing country where most items are cheaper to a "developed" country where the cost of living is higher. --or can we?

[@benfishermin]

Well I shot this video in Penang, otherwise I’ve only been to Taiping, Ipoh, Putrajaya. To me taiping felt quite rural. But yea I’ve spent far more time in KL than those places. I think KL is definitely the closest comparison to somewhere like NYC or Philadelphia. Yea you cannot directly compare these places, but if you have the option to live in any of them it’s good to compare how it feels in each one. The income disparity in the US is crazy, and in NYC you really see it on a daily basis

[@cheriamanja6214]

​@@benfishermini had been to NYC few yrs after 11/9. It was not very clean. But DC was nice. I liked it. I think our Leaders that time wanted Putrajaya to be like DC & Paris just look at the design of buildings & landscape in Putrajaya.

[@mumtazahmustajab9870]

Travelling widens your horizon, opens your mind, deepens your thought.

[@rushdrift]

1k USD thats pretty much around RM4.4k~4.67k yes its basically what we called the B40 group and its pretty much the highest percentage of what the local earn, it depends on the area you live tho in Kuala Lumpur this is consider the low income earner almost 40% people earn this much but yes you can live at this rate not just survive but enjoy life, I've been to NYC once yes its like a variety city everything in one city but I've eaten Malaysian food there its kinda tone down version especially the spiciness to suit the westerner tastebud

[@liyenong2017]

This is considered basic pay not low pay, I wouldn't consider 40% but rather 80% of the population earns UP to this range. In Malaysia low pay is RM 1,500. Those working under internship don't even earn much at RM 400- 1000 for 6 months straight... Remember in maths the Mean is not the median for salary. The average figures gets bumped up by those extremely wealthy that consist a few percent of the population

[@stmpo5595]

Ringgit used to exchange for RM2.50 to a US dollar before 1997. Our incompetent politicians have messed up country economy for the past 60 years.

[@amirulhaqueyahya4063]

I am a singaporean. i cant wait to fully retire and live in malaysia. hope the MM2H becomes even more friendly to foreigners looking to live or retire in msia.

[@user-pf3lf1ib9k]

Thanks for the info & nice video. May I ask what kind of job you do in Malaysia? best of luck

[@nabiltakiyuddin]

Interesting point of view Ben and opinion. Help us also to understand life in America which an average American people faced daily life that are not portraying by the media, and etc. Hope you enjoy in Malaysia.

[@AL-ip3vk]

To the Malaysians, things are not cheap anymore.

[@realmmaguy]

Syukur ke hadrat Allah SWT diatas keberkatan yang diberikan kepada Malaysia. Semoga kita sama-sama dapat nikmat dari Allah. Peace be upon you, and may god bless you for this very beautiful work.

[@luna_aurora]

Found your video suggested on my feed. Just curious about what does an American think about our quality of life here..😊 well, I like your perspective, Ben. Have a nice day to you. 💜

[@hazarddavid6987]

Tq Ben... I have been to the US and Europe...Similar experiences as stated...Gotta watch your six especially when alone in the dark...

[@benfishermin]

Yea it’s true with Europe too I felt similarly

[@casey666]

thank you sir for your kind opinion

[@benfishermin]

No problem 😄

[@amanshahosman9082]

I would like to recommend for you to explore two additional items as part of your happiness index comparison (1) Education accessibility (2) Public Healthcare

[@gasolina4432]

They are cheap for locals but not internationals

[@Nabila-dx8xf]

1 USD : 4.68 ringgit. you can live pretty well. But it is hard for Malaysians

[@benfishermin]

I make around 4500-5000 ringgit per month, so it’s not too bad, but since I’m traveling and living in hotels it’s more difficult. If I stay in one place and rent longterm it will be much easier.

[@salmaishaq9512]

​@@benfishermin well I guess u already adapt the living comfortably in Malaysia as a single person. As for Malaysian family where the members about 4 to 7 pax that amount still suffice for us... will struggle a bit if you are not thrifty enough. Plus tax exemption for certain thing n other benefits as Malaysian help us to breath... n make savings bit by bit. Stil we are grateful to Allah that suffice us with all His blessings to us as His servants. Anyway enjoy your stay in Malaysia n stay safe.

[@MalaysiaTravelGuide]

@@benfishermin Why don't you just rent a room in a condo? I haven't rented out my extra rooms in awhile (not many western etc expats here anymore and had trouble with some of the last ones...) - if you are looking for room in the middle of Bukit Bintang, let me know...

[@SeanGranseeTravel]

Conversion rates are meaningless without comparing prices of comparable goods. 1 USD = 25,462 VND, but going to Vietnam as an American doesn’t give me 25 thousand times the spending power.

[@MalaysiaTravelGuide]

@@SeanGranseeTravel Several RM at a mamak or hawker to RM15++ (++ at more upscale mall food courts which are getting pricer...) can get you a good meal here... Imported stuff in supermarkets is more pricier...

[@mudasir3762]

Hey there, saw you walking through georgetown about usa v malaysia. I think itll be a great discussion to have with you. I from CT, and have lived in brooklyn too betwen 2012-2016 and also 2007-2008. Im in batu ferringi for about 2 Years.

[@anuarrizal]

Love it.. you just walked past my office there!! I ve been to Europe, mid east, Australia, Japan .. and lived in Texas USA for 5 years too.

[@benfishermin]

Nice, I’m dying to visit Japan! It’s becoming more realistic now that it’s somewhat affordable

[@anuarrizal]

@@benfishermin Osaka - Kyoto in March or April! Went there in 2019. Awesome!

[@ritasarah7474]

Hi Ben , remember to visit State of Sarawak too

[@hidayatemir]

In order to be a human being and enjoys our life as humans, we must become and take care of our human values. Instead of being something else. But that is not enough. To know who we are and the purpose of our lives we must know our Creator. For what we are created and what's the ending. Start seriously thinking about it and try our best before it's too late. # A hand phone just remains as a hand phone without any functions if unconnected to its sources. The same we as humans. 😊🇲🇾

[@petuatradisional8436]

love your post... especially you are from US.. so easy to understand the english compare to youtuber from british or australia

[@angieng8633]

USD$1,000 is MYR4,700, you can definitely live on that in Msia as a single person. A lot dont earn that much, esp outside of the big cities. Try living on 1/3 of MYR4,700 salary then can discuss

[@scythazz]

Is alot in Malaysian terms but USD$1000 is not alot in the grand scheme of things. That’s his point. His not like earning the 1% income level is all he is saying.

[@user-ru7ex3mi3o]

well done iin a way that is real añd balanced. thank you. makes us thankful for where we are.

[@benfishermin]

Thank you my friend

[@fajarh979]

Today i am seeing 2 channel of comparison by us guys in SEA. The 1st one is Max channel, usa vs singapore. Your channel, usa vs malaysia.

[@ZashnainZainal]

I agree that living in Malaysia is relatively affordable. Public healthcare for Malaysians is a key factor in this affordability. While food, accommodation, and transport costs have risen, they remain manageable for the average citizen at this moment. Great insights on your channel!

[@aisvo]

I like how confidently you walk on the road in the beginning of the video. :D

[@yoroshikune08]

Thanks for sharing Ben. Hope you have an enjoyable stay in Malaysia. Would like to know more about life in US. Daily expenses etc Heard it differ from states to states....... Have a nice weekend. Take care.

[@benfishermin]

Thanks I’m glad you enjoy the video. Realistically in NYC the monthly expenses all included are in the $5k-$10k range at least

[@fixxzitt]

As a Malaysian I travel to other country and I always feel glad to be home afterwards.

[@charlesparker4481]

Life is more comfortable as to living in US. Style of house, money can change that though. But, Malaysia as a people are way better. Now, driving is like America, many lack sabr. I like Malaysia more than California. As I am also Muslim it makes prayer easier. I couldn't afford my family in US. I can live a simple life here in Malaysia. I wish my Parents lived here, it's a better way of life.

[@mangostickyrice555]

Thumbs up 👍 Ben

[@Azractor86]

Hey there, glad you like Malaysia 😊

[@benfishermin]

Yes I love it 😁😁

[@ridzwanhussain3369]

I am a Malaysian, from Batang Kali Selangor, living in Kuala Lumpur. I was lucky to be among those who was privileged enough to live in the UK during my student days and visited many countries in Europe and also visited America and Japan. Malaysian are friendly, Switzerland and Japan are very safe even at night, food and accomodation in Hungary is cheap, and I agree that at night most American cities are not safe.

[@benfishermin]

I’d really like to visit Japan and Switzerland too 😱

[@xx-xt4nh]

Don't forget Ben..there is no language barrier here..everyone, even cleaners can speak english and school is FREE here an accessible to all.. even Thailand is no where near Malaysia, no one speaks a word of english in Bangkok and public school is NOT FREE. So, in short, I am proud of my country.

[@fizahanif]

if your salary is rm2000 in malaysia, you live in kampung, rent is 200, you have 1800 to spend on car, and food, and you can make a homestead garden to produce free food......

[@benfishermin]

Wow I’m surprised there are apartments for 200RM / month. Are these single rooms in a shared apartment, or studio units?

[@zypern16]

@@benfishermin It is village's house in rural areas. A decent apartment in cities with local standard would cost about 1000RM/month minimum.

[@kualakangsar7517]

9:15 You just walked past what used to be Penang's last synagogue (!). It's the corner house on the left of the frame across the road from Continental Bakery, which is clearly seen on the right of the frame.

[@arivfotomoto3642]

Ben, you just passed BRGR, maybe the burgers there are better than Ramly. Give it a try...😉

[@ilaAlia007]

Thanks Ben for positive review abt Malaysia. I feel so grateful born and living in Malaysia. It’s not perfect of course but this is the melting pot of every countries and I myself as a local when I visited other country I missed Malaysian warm hospitality and the variety of foods. Malaysia is always the best for me.

[@sirajuddinasraf1614]

Really thankful living in Malaysia

[@benfishermin]

It’s a great place to live

[@nukakolaa]

true for $500 per month on rent you can get like a luxury apartment or a landed house in Malaysia, in US you can get like only a room for that price

[@eat_ze_bugs]

In Sydney that will get you a room for two weeks if you're lucky.

[@HanimSukri]

Hmm. Thinking first before speak. Very good.

[@yusnidahamdan]

I truly agree with rm5k for a single person...avoid spending on expensive items...live a simple life...minimalist...there are lots of cheap vacations here in M'sia...lots of lovely foods of which u can cook at home via recipes in KZbin...

[@benfishermin]

Yea it’s plenty to live a good life here

[@peterreber7671]

I and my partner go to the street restaurants, or the rice palace to eat buffer style. The bill for both of us is rarely more than 18MYR (4USD), including a free bowl of soup and a glass of Chinese tea or water.

[@chooihoonlim4691]

America was known as its movies making, celebrities, Hollywood & good looking hunk. What you said its true. Maybe America will be my last list in my travel bucket lol. Thanks for the vlogs & enjoy your stay in Kuala Lumpur. Malaysia has so much to offer in our multicultural ethnics❤. Having born in Penang & live in Kuala Lumpur😉

[@155stw]

I think for a family, RM10K is very comfortable. I think I can do it for RM7K in Ipoh. I mean I would earn out every night, not even cook and just laze around, swim ,play tennis and golf. Then go to the beach every month.

[@farhanayub267]

About the safety, i think its depend the state/place where u live. For instance, my car auto locking broke down 7 years ago and i didnt bother to fix it because nothing happen until now and i park my car outside my garage lol.

[@whatislovebutonelonggame5406]

weather is like in the middle of summer everyday, in Texas, but more rain.