Hi Everyone, new to this forum. me and my wife are in our mid 20s and combined income around $6k SGD. We are expecting our first child next year. Our HDB MOP is in 3 years.
This is doable but no matter within MOP OR after MOP, do not share you are buying properties overseas. There is such a thing as a crab barrel mentality and many including your relatives will always advise you against it. It can be other countries, not just Malaysia. You can also consider even Batam as ferry times are relatively clear and housing cheaper there as well. Once you buy, do not share unless you really trust your friends. This is as its not so easy for people in government sectors to know you have properties overseas. Most of the time its own people or friends who informed.
Am thinking about moving to JB after child is born (and Covid scare is over) while working 4-5 days a week in SG. Wife probably 3-4 days. rent a place first for 1st year try out. Main reason is that I personally find SG suffocating and not a good place to raise a family. Would like your opinions on my plan, if it's a good idea and hope you don't mind answering some questions;
This is doable, don't buy. Just rent a place near either one of the entry points into Malaysia. Condos can be rented relatively cheaply. Get something with security.
Is long term stay at JB without MM2H still viable?
Not as viable as before, get a APEC card so you get less questioning (now APEC card is suspended), consider getting a work permit in Malaysia and use it to apply LTVP for your dependants. Work permit typically up to age 45 only.
Which area in JB has more SG young families? I am familiar with areas like KSL, Mount austin, permas Jaya because I like to visit with wife during weekends to relax but not so sure about the more 'residential areas'. Which place is nice to settle down?
Avoid the areas you have listed, they are a bit more messy. Can consider newer areas even Medini, but avoid if buying.
Where are the good childcare centers in JB?
Many but quite a few have folded and closed. Many do not have licenses as well and authorities have turned a blind eye until now. Do not go to any centres that came out from Singapore. Overpriced and no real difference between local ones.
Is renting out 2 rooms out of 3 of my 4 room flat a good idea? (Even after my HDB MOP period over) Can always come back to 'base' with my family if any issue in JB
Yes, i regretted not renting out my place in Singapore for more than 10 years while i was there in JB. Just started the year before and now taking back this year for own stay.
Is parking a MY car at parking near City square and then taking bus/train back to SG viable for work
It is very viable, i do that a lot, outside near the old train station/museum where you can park your car there for daily and even season rates. Remember as a foreigner you can get a bank loan so if you are buying a 2nd hand car, you can try with banks rather than their in house loan.
Very reasonable, more so if you are using a motorcycle and parking there. Only thing is possible only after Q1 next year as they will likely open only around then. Best wishes.
Thanks in advance for all your wisdom:-)
Unlike those minority cheena in Msia leeching on their garment subsidies but still complain not enough. They should migrate to Sinkieland/Chicom and join their majority kind.
