Whether we want to admit it or not, there are definitely some things that we take for granted. I know, I know, we simply can’t help it, right? Try as we may, familiarity has its way of turning us into these sad little brats. It is only once those things are taken away from us that we learn to appreciate them.
So here are 4 things about Malaysia you learn to appreciate after you move abroad.
If you’re going overseas soon, don’t say we didn’t warn you! Or if you by any chance are already overseas, let us know in the comments below if you relate to any of these! For travel aspirants out there, you can still do some research with things like how much does it cost to move overseas.
1. Shopping
It is no news that there are shopping malls everywhere in Malaysia. I’m pretty sure a few are even being built right now. You’re basically spoilt for choice when it comes to shopping in Malaysia because not only are there shopping malls galore, you also have access to many different brands be it local or big shot international. I cannot guarantee you the same overseas, especially if you’re in a small town with a small population size. There may only be a handful of malls, and most shops close around 5 – 6 pm in Western countries. While you still can, shop till you drop. But the busy streets, hustling with life, also happen to be one of the places which make pedestrians vulnerable. Statistics from yourfightourbattle.com/fort-lauderdale-personal-injury-lawyer/car-accidents/ reveal the whopping number of accidents that are reported on a daily basis. Be prepared for any accident and buy a stacked insurance.
2. Manglish
When you are abroad, you must understand that one does not simply Manglish. And no it’s not just about the slang and the lahs, it’s about the accent too. Speak in perfect Queen’s English but in a Malaysian accent and people will still find it difficult to understand you. So that’s when the fake angmoh accent has to come to the rescue. To those of you in Malaysia, embrace Manglish and speak if with pride.
3. Food
Food, food, glorious food. Need I elaborate? You start to really appreciate it once you realise that in other countries, it’s not quite the norm to worry about what to eat for your next meal, nor is eating a national pastime. And when you discover that the “authentic” Malaysian restaurant you saw in town isn’t all that authentic, it dawns on you that the only way to cure your foodsickness is to make it yourself. So you go to the Asian supermarket with a hungry empty stomach, scouting for the ingredients Mummy used at home, only to find that they don’t have it. I guess it’s back to eating Maggi Mee.
4. Weather
How many times today have you complained about the weather? How many times have you wished for perpetual coolness in Malaysia? How many… alright you get the idea. But seriously, while Malaysia might not have the best weather or climate, it’s definitely a place you’ll want to be in if you’re abroad in a temperate country. It certainly ain’t fun to feel cold all day and have wind blowing in your face. If you’re unfortunate enough, you may even get chilblains which is when your extremities swell due to the cold. So appreciate the sunny weather, peeps.
The next time you feel like the unluckiest person in the world, remember these things and count your blessings.
Header image credit