The majority of Malaysians are prone to comparing their average salaries to those who live abroad, commenting that our currency is not as strong as other countries. However, the grass is not always greener on the other side. Despite having a higher minimum wage and currency value, each country taxes their citizens differently, leaving some grasping at straws to make ends meet.
In an interview with YouTuber Ccwhyao (西西歪), a Japanese woman named Sunami admits to leaving her high-salary job in Japan for a more laid-back lifestyle in Malaysia. She attributes her decision to migrate from the land of the rising sun to high-income tax rates, as well as not having time for herself to relax.
Sunami, who is also a content creator, says that despite having a lower salary in Malaysia, she’s able to lead a more relaxing lifestyle with more time to do activities that she wants to do. Other than the time for leisure, she also adds that despite Japan’s high salary, income tax for the average taxpayer would be up to 30%, “Every time I would receive my salary, I would be sad“.
Other than career factors, Sunami also brings up about the rental situation in Japan. “For this one bedroom, it costs up to RM3000 (101,689 JPY) and I’m sharing it with a roommate“. She also adds that the unit does not come with extra amenities that you would usually have in Malaysia with the same price point, such as a gym, swimming pool and a designated parking spot.
Not only does she compare finances to Japan, but Sunami also points out that Malaysian men are better than Japanese men, saying, “I see [Malaysian] boyfriends protecting their girlfriends on the street. I was like, wow, so sweet!”. Would you migrate overseas for better salary options?
Watch the full video here:
Source: YouTube
Alyssa Gabrielle contributed to this article
