Malaysia Tops List as Safest Place to Retire in Asia

Malaysia has claimed the coveted top spot in a recent ranking of the 10 safest places to retire in Asia, according to Nasdaq, a US-based financial services corporation. The ranking, which was compiled using data from the United Nations Pacific-Asia Region Group, the WorldPopulationReview, Numbeo, and the Institute for Economics and Peace Global Peace Index 2022 Report, placed Malaysia at the forefront of retiree-friendly destinations.

Malaysia’s High Ranking Supported by Key Factors

The ranking considered various factors, including the global peace index, average monthly cost of living, and gross domestic product (GDP). Malaysia secured the first position with an impressive global peace index score of 1.471 and an average monthly cost of living of US$1,066 (RM4,955). The country’s GDP was reported to be US$481.9 trillion (RM2.24 quadrillion).

Affordability and Quality of Life Draw Retirees

With a cost of living index of 22.9, Malaysia offers an attractive proposition for retirees seeking a comfortable and affordable lifestyle. The country’s appeal is further enhanced by its strong GDP and average monthly expenses of just over US$1,000 (RM4,650). These factors combine to position Malaysia as an excellent choice for retirees, offering both financial security and a high standard of living.

Runner-Up and Other Notable Rankings

Coming in second on the list is Kuwait, boasting a global peace index score of 1.739 and an average monthly cost of living of US$1,741 (RM8,090). Despite a cost of living index of 37.4, which is higher compared to some other countries on the list, Kuwait’s overall combination of affordability and peace index score solidifies its appeal as a retirement destination.

Rounding out the top three is Mongolia, with a global peace index score of 1.775 and an average monthly cost of living of US$940 (RM4,277). Although Mongolia shares the lowest cost of living index (20.2) with Indonesia, its GDP is the lowest on the list, totaling US$21 trillion.

Full List of the Top 10 Safest Places to Retire in Asia

The comprehensive list compiled by Nasdaq highlights the top destinations for retirees seeking safety and affordability:

1. Malaysia (Average Monthly Cost of Living: US$1,066; RM4,855)
2. Kuwait (Average Monthly Cost of Living: US$1,741; RM8,090)
3. Mongolia (Average Monthly Cost of Living: US$940; RM4,277)
4. Vietnam (Average Monthly Cost of Living: US$1,117; RM5,085)
5. Indonesia (Average Monthly Cost of Living: US$940; RM4,277)
6. Jordan (Average Monthly Cost of Living: US$1,331; RM6,056)
7. Cambodia (Average Monthly Cost of Living: US$1,387; RM6,310)
8. Oman (Average Monthly Cost of Living: US$1,513; RM6,884)
9. Cyprus (Average Monthly Cost of Living: US$1,964; RM8,936)
10. Nepal (Average Monthly Cost of Living: US$684; RM3,112)

All countries on the list scored below 2.0 on the Global Peace Index, indicating a high level of safety and stability.

Retiring Abroad Growing in Popularity

The increasing popularity of retiring abroad is driven by the allure of a more affordable cost of living and the enriching experiences that living in a foreign country provides. Many Americans are now considering retirement options outside their own nation’s borders, seeking greater financial flexibility without compromising on quality of life.

As Nasdaq’s recent rankings have revealed, Malaysia stands out as the premier choice for retirees, offering security, a reasonable cost of living, and a high standard of living.