A former Kuala Lumpur resident, now working in Singapore, has gone viral for declaring that life in Singapore is “cheap” compared to Malaysia when earning in local currency.
The remarks, shared in the Facebook group “Complaint Singapore” , sparked heated discussions online as users debated the cost of living between the two countries.
‘Cost of living in KL is high’
The post, written by user Nizam Nizam, highlighted his experience transitioning from Kuala Lumpur to Singapore.
He claimed that meals in KL often cost him RM30-60 and that even basic dishes like chicken rice were around RM12.
He highlighted that food, ranging from fast food to hawker centers and restaurants, was affordable with Singapore’s local income.
When I was living in KL with local spending power, I often spent RM30-60 on meals and snacks every time I went out. Even at cheap eateries, chicken rice cost me RM12.
Now I’m in Singapore, earning local money, and everything here is really ‘cheap cheap cheap.”
Nizam also expressed surprise at his colleagues’ complaints about rising GST and prices in Singapore, arguing that the Singapore government has done a commendable job of keeping costs manageable for middle-income families.
He did, however, note that cars remain expensive in Singapore.
Nizam also shared his perspective on housing, arguing that although homes in Singapore might feel like “shoe boxes,” they were affordable as long as one met the requirements.
He praised Singapore’s government for keeping costs manageable for middle-income families, stating, “Travel a bit, and you’ll realize your government has done a great job.”
Read also:
Mixed Reactions From Netizens
The post generated a flurry of responses, with opinions divided.
One commenter strongly disagreed, writing, “I have lived more than 10 years in JB, and what you are talking about is absolutely absurd.”
Another user backed Nizam’s perspective, stating, “I totally agree, and I have personally experienced the high cost of living in Malaysia, especially in KL and JB. You’ll understand when you get a job in Malaysia (earning ringgit) and try to make ends meet.”
Some netizens offered a nuanced take on the situation. A commenter shared their experience, saying, “I had stationed in KL for many years and traveled all over Malaysia. There is a big difference between living alone here and having a family to take care of, especially if you’re the sole breadwinner.”
The same commenter added a pointed remark: “Btw, why not become a citizen here since you sing so many praises about Singapore?”
