Living In Pahang
Cost of Living
The cost of living in Malaysia is one of the lowest in Asia and will remain so for a very long time. This is achieved through the Government’s efficient monitoring of the economy in ensuring that inflation is kept low at all times and thereby also the prices of goods and services.
Malaysia has achieved an admirable record of maintaining political and economic stability with the same Government in power for years of unbroken succession ever since independence. Living standards have improved greatly over the past decade and many Malaysians now have access to services and facilities similar to those in most developed countries (Source: MIDA).
Food and Drinks
Most communities have their own wet markets that sell all types of meat products, seafood, vegetables and fruits. These products and produce, most reared or grown locally, are sold widely, fresh and at very low rates. Eating out is very affordable although there are also high-class restaurants that are rather expensive. Malaysia is famous for its open food courts that serve meals of various local cuisines hawker-style that are cheap and appetising which are available in most towns. Below are some examples of food and drinks prices (on average).
| Items | Price (RM) |
| Typical lunch (Asian food with a soft drink) | 6.00 – 10.00 |
| White bread (one loaf) | 2.10 |
| Cooked Spaghetti | 8.00 |
| Oranges (8 pack) | 6.00 |
| 1.5 litre mineral water | 1.50 |
| 1 litre milk | 5.00 |
| Coke (325ml – can) | 1.20 |
| McDonalds Value Meal | 8.50 |
| Regular pizza | 16.50 |
Shopping and Entertainment
Malaysia is a shopping heaven and Pahang is no exception. There are quite a few high-quality shopping malls throughout the state especially in Kuantan with various international and local brand names. Below are some examples of entertainment and recreation activities such as the cinema, sports and leisure, and others including personal grooming.
| Items | Price (RM) |
| Movie ticket (per person) | 8.00 – 10.00 |
| Fitness club (monthly fee) | 80.00 – 175.00 |
| Men’s haircut | 15.00 |
| Women’s haircut | 30.00 – 60.00 |
| Corporate golf club membership | 30,000.00 – 110,000.00 |
Getting Around in Cars
Cars are the most convenient mode of transport in Malaysia and buying a new or second-hand car is relatively easy and affordable. Approval Permits (AP), issued by the Ministry of International Trade and Industry (MITI), are required for the importation of cars.
Petrol and diesel are sold by the local petroleum company, Petronas, and leading international oil companies like Shell, BHP, Esso, Caltex and Mobil. Prices of petrol and diesel are subject to revision based on changes in world prices.
Domestic Help
Domestic help are mostly by foreign workers (such as Indonesians and Philippines). Many agencies can handle all matters pertaining to the employment of domestic help. Domestic help usually cover basic household chores with salary range from RM500 to RM800 per month. There are additional costs (agency fees, medical and repatriation costs) that will be outlined by the employment agency.
