Cheat Sheet

Moving to Kuala Lumpur? Congratulations! It’s a city buzzing with energy, exploding with delicious food, and brimming with friendly faces. But navigating a new place can be daunting. Fear not, intrepid expat, for this guide is your essential companion!

We’ve compiled a list of must-have apps and resources to transform you from a newbie to a seasoned KLite in no time.  Consider it your cheat sheet to unlocking the secrets of the city, from getting around to indulging in the local eats.

Expat Associations in Kuala Lumpur

St. Patricks Society of Selangor
Irish society and expatriates in Kuala Lumpur.
Association Of British Women In Malaysia
ABWM non-profit association for expats organising events, charity work, toddler groups, library and fitness classes. 88 Jalan Terasek 8, Bangsar Baru, 59100, Kuala Lumpur.
Association of Pakistani Women in Malaysia
An association holding group discussions for the members of the Pakistani womens community and organising social and charitable activities. No 29, Lorong Terasik Kanan Bangsar Baru, 59100 Kuala Lumpur.
Scandinavian Society Malaysia
A group putting Scandinavians in contact with each other as well as to arrange social get-togethers. Suite 303, F139, BSC, 285 Jalan Maarof, Bangsar, 59000 Kuala Lumpur.
German Speaking Society Kuala Lumpur
A non-profit organisation for people interested in the culture of German speaking countries. P.O. Box 707, Jalan Sultan, 46670 Petaling Jaya Kuala Lumpur.
International Womens Association of Kuala Lumpur
A not-for-profit, non-denominational organisation, that has been grouping expatriate women from all over the world for social interaction, humanitarian community service and professional fulfillment for over two decades. Kuala Lumpur.
Hash House Harriers
International running and social club registered in Malaysia since 1938. Run starts 18:00 each Monday in Kuala Lumpur. See website for details.
Korean Women Association
Group for Korean women in Malaysia.
Malaysian Warriors Australian Rules Football Club
Australian rules football club for Aussie expats living and working in Kuala Lumpur.
Combined Old Boys Rugby Association COBRA
Rugby club and association to promote and develop the game in Malaysia on a local and international level. 7, Lorong Utara B, Jalan Utara, 46200 Petaling Jaya, Kuala Lumpur.
St David’s Society
Welsh and expatriate society in Kuala Lumpur.
Latin American Ladies Association
Association for Latin American women. 123, Jalan Raja Muda Abd Aziz, Kampung Baru, 50300 Kuala Lumpur.
Malaysian Culture Group
A registered non-profit society enabling people to discover the culture, history, religion and art of Malaysia and South-East Asia.
Selangor St. Andrew’s Society
The Society’s aims include fostering of matters of Scottish interest, the celebration of St. Andrew’s Day and the organisation of social events for members and expats. P O Box 6210, Pudu Post Office, 55720 Kuala Lumpur.
American Association of Malaysia
A non-profit organization comprised of both expatriate Americans & non-Americans living in Malaysia organises social, educational, cultural and charity events. Unit G-3A, Villa Seavoy, No 7, Lorong Titiwangsa 8, Taman Titiwangsa, 53200 Kuala Lumpur.
Royal Society of St. George
Provides a meeting point, social activities and link for expatriates, members and non-members of expat societies in Kuala Lumpur. P O Box 10500, 50716 Kuala Lumpur.
Canadian Association of Malaysia
A volunteer-run organisation whose objectives are to assist expatriates in Malaysia. CAM provides support, networking and social activities for expats while raising funds for selected charities through annual events.
Japan Club of Kuala Lumpur
Japanese group based in Kuala Lumpur. No.2 Jalan 1/86, Off Jalan Taman Seputeh, Taman Seputeh, 58000 Kuala Lumpur.
Hellenic Society of Malaysia
A group for the Greeks and the philhellenes who live in, or visit Kuala Lumpur. Villa Putra Putri, 3 Gerbang Ampang Hilir, 55000 Kuala Lumpur.
MANZA Malaysian Australian New Zealand Association
MANZA is a social network for expats living in Kuala Lumpur providing members with information and support, organising social and sporting events and raising money for Malaysian charities. 38 Jalan Tempinis, Lucky Garden, Bangsar, 59100 Kuala Lumpur.

Fuel Your Foodie Frenzy: Must-Follow Food Blogs

Now that you’ve got the essentials covered, it’s time to explore the real star of the show – Malaysian food!  Get your taste buds tingling with these local food blogs:

Need a helping hand at home? These apps connect you with reliable cleaning services:

MaidEasy: Book cleaners quickly and conveniently through their user-friendly app.

Cantika Cleaning Services: Let Cantika handle all your cleaning needs, from regular home maintenance to deep cleaning.

Here’s a breakdown of some popular Malaysian news sources, focusing on their general style and content:

  • The Star: This is a widely-read English-language daily newspaper known for its comprehensive national and international coverage. It offers a good balance of breaking news, in-depth articles, and lifestyle content.
  • New Straits Times (NST): Another major English-language daily, NST provides reliable news reporting across various sections including politics, business, sports, and entertainment. It can have a slightly more formal tone compared to The Star.
  • Malay Mail: This online news portal delivers breaking news, insightful commentary, and analysis on current Malaysian affairs. It’s known for its strong focus on local issues and a slightly more opinionated approach compared to The Star and NST.
  • The Edge: This publication caters to the business and finance sector. It offers in-depth market analysis, investment insights, and coverage of economic trends specific to Malaysia and the region.

What to choose?

The best news source for you depends on your interests:

  • For a general overview of Malaysian and international news: The Star or NST
  • For in-depth local news and commentary: Check out Malay Mail
  • For business and financial news: The Edge is your go-to source

Additional options:

  • Free Malaysia Today (FMT): An independent online news platform known for its investigative journalism and focus on social issues
  • Borneo Post: This English language daily covers new primarily from East Malaysia (Sabah and Sarawak)

Remember:

  • It’s always recommended to consult multiple news sources to get a well-rounded perspective on current events.
  • Be mindful of potential bias, especially when it comes to opinion-based content.

Your Pocket Powerhouse: Essential Mobile Apps

Grab: The king of Malaysian apps, Grab does it all – taxi rides, food delivery (GrabFood), grocery shopping (GrabMart), even courier services! It’s your one-stop shop for convenience on the go.

Food Delivery Powerhouses: Feeling peckish? Foodpanda and Beepit offer a wide range of restaurants delivering straight to your doorstep. No more “what’s for dinner?” dilemmas!

Shopping Spree? Go Digital: Shopee and Lazada are the reigning e-commerce champions. Browse, compare, and buy everything from fashion finds to electronics with ease. Remember, deals pop up all the time, so keep an eye out for steals!

Magazines:

  • ExpatGo Malaysia: ExpatGo offers valuable information and resources for expats living in Malaysia, including articles on finding accommodation, navigating the healthcare system, and exploring different neighbourhoods.
  • KL Lifestyle: An online magazine featuring articles on art, fashion, dining, and events.
  • MakChic: This website caters specifically to urban parents in Malaysia. They provide content and resources on various parenting topics, from education and childcare to activities and lifestyle tips.
  • Tatler Malaysia: A luxury magazine, Tatler occasionally features content beyond just high-end experiences. You might find interesting articles on local restaurants, hidden gems, or cultural events that cater to a wider audience.
  • TimeOut KL: A comprehensive guide to “what’s on” in the city. You’ll find curated lists of the best restaurants, bars, events, exhibitions, and things to do, keeping you updated on the city’s latest trends.

Families With Children:

  • IBU Family Resource Group: This is a great resource for families seeking support and information. They offer various programs, workshops, and online resources related to parenting, child development, and family well-being. Also join the Facebook Group: The Ibu Tribe.
  • Happy Go KL: This website focuses on family-friendly activities and events in Kuala Lumpur and surrounding areas. It’s a fantastic tool to find things to do with your kids, from exploring museums to discovering hidden parks.
  • Little Step Asia: This platform provides a wealth of information on early childhood education in Asia. They offer articles, resources, and recommendations for parents and educators looking to support young children’s development.

Pay With Ease

These apps let you pay for parking conveniently across Malaysia. Just remember, parking regulations can vary by location, so be sure to check local signage or the app’s information.
Here’s a quick guide to some popular parking apps for different regions (information subject to change):

App Name Website States Covered
JomParking Link Kuala Lumpur
Flexi Parking Link Multiple states
M Cash Link Kuala Lumpur, Terengganu, Kelantan
EZ KL Smart Park Link Kuala Lumpur
Park@Perak Link Perak
Penang Smart Parking Link Penang
Smart Parking Borneo Link Kuching, Miri
SVP Smart Parking Melaka Link Melaka
MBJB Spot V2 Link Johor Bahru
Snatch-P Link Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Selangor

Don’t Get Caught Off Guard: A Quick Guide to Traffic Fines in Malaysia
Let’s face it, navigating a new city can be tricky, especially when it comes to the rules of the road. Here’s a quick rundown on some common traffic fines in Malaysia to keep you cruising smoothly (and legally!):

Please note: This isn’t an exhaustive list, and fines can vary depending on location. Think of it as a heads-up for some potential potholes!

These folks are in charge of keeping the roads safe, and that means catching drivers who:

  • Speed like a cheetah: Going way over the limit can land you a hefty fine.
  • Skip the seatbelt: It’s the law (and keeps you safe!), so buckle up!
  • Ignore red lights: Red means stop, not “go really fast and hope for the best.”
  • Party and drive? Not a good idea: Driving under the influence can have serious consequences.
  • Forgot your driving licence or insurance? Oops! Make sure you have all the proper paperwork.
  • Texting and driving? Don’t do it! Eyes on the road, not your phone.
  • Emergency lane hogging? Leave it clear for those who need it most.

These guys make sure your car is legit and roadworthy.  Here’s what they might ticket you for:

  • Expired road tax: Don’t let this one slip through the cracks! They even have a handy app (MyJPJ) to keep it updated.
  • Out-of-date car insurance: Make sure you’re covered.
  • Unauthorised car mods: Big spoiler alert! Get mods approved before cruising.
  • Learner’s permit party foul: Don’t drive without the proper permit.

These sneaky cameras can catch you when you least expect it, so watch out for:

  • Speeding demons: Slow down!
  • Red light runners: Respect the red light.
  • Bus lane bandits: Stay out of the bus lane, it’s not a shortcut!

Paying Up: Your Fine Options

So, you got a ticket?  No worries! Here’s how to settle the score:

  • MyEG: This online platform lets you pay for most traffic fines (PDRM, JPJ, AES) and even some DBKL (KL City Hall) summons.
  • Government Department Websites: Each department (JPJ, PDRM) might also have online payment options on their websites.

Need More Info?

For a deeper dive, check out these resources:

Remember, following the rules keeps everyone safe and happy on the road!

Looking to connect with others and experience the vibrant social scene in Malaysia? Here are some leads to get you started:

Kuala Lumpur

  • The Mingle (KL) by TEG Media: Don’t miss out on Kuala Lumpur’s popular expat event series! This social gathering happens every month at a different bar or restaurant, offering a casual setting to meet new people, hang out with friends, and enjoy good food and drinks after work.

Penang

  • Spiral Synergy Events: Join Michele for events, walks & trips. Sign up for her newsletter (email/WhatsApp) here for updates.
  • The Mingle (KL) by TEG Media: Don’t miss out on Kuala Lumpur’s popular expat event series! This social gathering happens every month at a different bar or restaurant, offering a casual setting to meet new people, hang out with friends, and enjoy good food and drinks after work.

Johor Bahru

  • The Mingle (KL) by TEG Media: Don’t miss out on JB’s popular expat event series! This social gathering happens every month at a different bar or restaurant, offering a casual setting to meet new people, hang out with friends, and enjoy good food and drinks after work..

General tips for finding social events:

  • Facebook Groups: There are likely many Facebook groups dedicated to social events and activities in Kuala Lumpur, Penang, and Johor. Search for groups related to your interests (e.g., expats in KL, hiking in Penang) to find like-minded people.
  • Eventbrite: This platform lists various events happening across Malaysia, including social gatherings, workshops, and meetups.
  • InterNations: A one-stop shop for expats living abroad. It connects you with other expats in your city, offers social events to build your network, and provides valuable information about your new home country. From finding an apartment to navigating cultural nuances, InterNations has forums and resources to help you settle in smoothly.
  • Business Chambers: Regularly host industry specific events and networking events like breakfast talks, business lunches, and evening receptions. These events are a fantastic way for expats to connect with other professionals in their field and expand their business network.
  • Expat Associations: Often host social events like welcome parties, barbecues, cultural outings, and sports activities. These events are a great way for expats to meet new people, make friends, and feel more connected to the local community.
Your Cashless Companion

A Touch ‘n Go card is your key to smooth travel. Breeze through tolls, pay for public transportation fares, and even handle parking payments (e.g.: Malls – Suria KLCC, Publika, and 1 Mont Kiara). at many locations – all with a tap of your card.

Purchase: If you prefer a personal touch, you can visit the TnG Hub at Nu Sentral Mall to learn more. Otherwise, read more here for other options, including an e-wallet app: https://www.touchngo.com.my/

Getting You There Seamlessly

Planning a trip beyond KL? Here are some handy apps for navigating Malaysia:

AirAsia MOVE: Book flights and hotels together for a hassle-free travel experience.

KTMB ETS Tickets: Purchase train tickets and map out your railway journeys across Malaysia with the official app from Keretapi Tanah Melayu Berhad (KTMB), the national railway operator.

MyRapid PULSE: Navigate public transportation in KL and surrounding areas. This app provides real-time information and trip planning tools to get you where you need to be.

Gathering Insights !