From Choa Chu Kang to JB: A Singapore Family's Journey

What are the benefits of rebasing in JB? Well, let's take a Singaporean family from Choa Chu Kang as a hypothetical case. This family wants to rebase to JB in hopes of opening up an opportunity to embrace a new lifestyle, whilst still staying connected to Singapore. With a fully paid-for home in Singapore and a 10-year-old child, this family can tap into the numerous benefits of life in JB without straying far from their roots. That's a pretty good reason for rebasing there for a start, especially when you factor in the various privileges offered by Malaysia's long-stay visa, MM2H.

The Allure of JB

Arguably, one of the most compelling rationales for making the move to JB, however, is the significantly lower cost of living in Malaysia. This is particularly appealing to families that can generate rental income by leasing out their Singapore property. With the high rental rates in Singapore and the favourable SGD/MYR exchange rate, Singaporeans can enjoy a more luxurious life in JB, whilst not in any way undermining their financial position. In fact, if anything, they'll likely be able to save more than had they stayed in Singapore, in part because any and all funds wired from their Singapore bank to their Malaysia bank is fully tax-free. Provided they're MM2H-holders, that is.

Now, should he choose to, the father of the household can continue working part-time in Singapore, whilst the family lives full-time in a condo in one of the atas estates in JB, for example. With RTS coming up, they'll be able enjoy the perks of both countries; the relaxed pace of their expat life in JB, coupled with the convenience of being just a short commute from Singapore, offers the best of both worlds.

JB's Growing Appeal

More Singaporeans are realising the benefits of living across the Causeway. As prices in Singapore keep increasing, more and more are becoming aware that JB is a desirable place to live. But before making the permanent move, it's advisable to rent a home first, to get a feel of the lifestyle. Only once settled in, does it make sense to go ahead and buy a home, be it a condo, a landed or semi-D. As long as the MM2H conditions are met. (More about this below).

High-Quality Healthcare and Education

Healthcare in JB is affordable and of high quality, with a number of JB clinics run by Singaporean medical groups, such as Gleneagles Medini and Regency Specialist Hospital, both recognised for CPF/Medisave. So this, too, is an attractive option for families, particularly those with children. Furthermore, these days, there are a few dozen international schools in JB to choose from, each providing a well-rounded education, offering kids a less stressful environment and fostering critical thinking skills. Whilst this line of thinking represents somewhat of a departure from traditional Singapore mindsets, it is, in fact, in line with contemporary, forward-thinking parents in particular.

MM2H — The Practical Solution

It's important to note that the most practical way to live in JB long-term is through the Malaysia My Second Home visa, such as MM2H Silver or MM2H SEZ/SFZ. Trying to live in JB on the 30-day so-called ASEAN social pass is a little risky. Why? Well, Immigration authorities may deny entry after multiple back-to-back visits, possibly resulting in the dreaded "NTL" stamp, i.e. denied entry, with grey listing or even blacklisting the next option.

To avoid such issues, applying for MM2H is a more secure and stable solution. Not to mention less stressful. Besides, meeting the most recent MM2H criteria is now more feasible than ever. And the returns are nothing short of comprehensive.

So yes, living in JB offers a blend of affordability, quality of life and proximity to Singapore, making it a viable choice for Singaporean families. By taking advantage of the conducive Singapore rental market, the favourable exchange rate and MM2H, savvy Singaporeans can make JB their new home, live a balanced expat-like lifestyle, yet without giving up their Singaporean connections.

With JB just a stone's throw away, Singaporeans can eat their kueh and have their kueh.