For many people, retirement is a dream filled with the promise of relaxation and living life on their own terms.
But for those in countries with a steep cost of living, like the United States, this dream can feel out of reach.
Andrew Taylor, a 70-year-old retiree from Washington, DC, found himself at a crossroads—until he made a bold decision that changed everything.
Instead of working into his 80s, Andrew chose to retire in Malaysia, where he discovered not only financial relief but also a new sense of purpose and belonging.
‘If I stayed in the U.S., I might have to work until I was 80’

After 40 years in administration, Andrew found the idea of retiring in the U.S. daunting.
“I realised that if I stayed in the U.S., I might have to work until I was 80,” he shared in an interview with Business Insider.
The high cost of living in his home country was a major hurdle. This realisation led Andrew to explore alternatives, and he began looking into retiring abroad.
A conversation with a former partner living in Penang introduced him to the Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) program, a government initiative aimed at welcoming foreign retirees.
Andrew didn’t hesitate. He applied for the program in late 2014, and by 2015, he had packed his bags and made the move to Penang.
‘Healthcare in Malaysia is excellent‘
Settling into Penang was a turning point for Andrew. For seven years, he embraced the relaxed pace of island life and the significant savings compared to his former lifestyle in Washington.
But eventually, he wanted a change of scenery and relocated to Kuala Lumpur three years ago.
Today, Andrew rents a cosy two-bedroom condominium on the 22nd floor, just three kilometres from the city centre.

His home, which costs RM2,800 a month, comes with perks like a swimming pool and gym—luxuries that would have cost a fortune back in the U.S.
Despite living in a major city, his monthly expenses are remarkably manageable at RM11,500 (USD2,500), which includes RM340 for basic health insurance.
“Healthcare in Malaysia is excellent. You don’t have to wait long for appointments,” he explained, highlighting one of the country’s biggest draws for retirees.
Gunshots were a common occurrence
For Andrew, Malaysia isn’t just affordable—it’s also incredibly safe.
Reflecting on his life in Washington, he recalled how gunshots outside his window were a common occurrence.
“Here, there’s nothing like that. I’ve never felt unsafe, even walking alone,” he said.
This sense of security has allowed Andrew to enjoy his retirement to the fullest. Whether exploring the vibrant streets of Kuala Lumpur or simply enjoying the view from his high-rise condo, he’s found a peace of mind that once felt impossible.
Retiring abroad isn’t for everyone

Andrew’s retirement hasn’t been just about relaxation—it’s also given him a purpose.
He now spends his days creating YouTube videos about life in Malaysia, sharing his experiences with others who might be considering a similar move.
However, he acknowledges that retiring abroad isn’t for everyone.
“For those with close family ties—children, grandchildren, or elderly parents—the decision can be tough,” he admitted.
But for Andrew, who doesn’t have strong family commitments, the move has been life-changing. “Retiring in Malaysia has been incredibly rewarding,” he said.
