Kuala Lumpur (KL) is Malaysia’s vibrant capital city, and it is becoming a top destination for international business students. Known for its cosmopolitan atmosphere, dynamic economy, and affordable cost of living, KL offers the perfect balance of education, culture, and lifestyle for aspiring business leaders.
With many educational institutions, including the prestigious Asia School of Business (ASB), Kuala Lumpur presents a great option for those seeking to pursue an MBA or business degree in a global business hub.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through what to expect living in Kuala Lumpur as a business student, from the cost of living to local culture, safety tips, and real testimonials from ASB students.
Why Kuala Lumpur?
Kuala Lumpur is quickly gaining recognition as an affordable, cosmopolitan business hub in Southeast Asia. With its bustling business districts, international student community, and strategic location, KL is an ideal place for business students to thrive.
The city is also home to a diverse mix of cultures and languages, which enriches the student experience and offers easy access to the broader Southeast Asian region.
Cost of Living Breakdown
One of the most appealing aspects of living in Kuala Lumpur is its affordability compared to other major Asian business hubs, such as Singapore and Hong Kong. Here’s a breakdown of your typical monthly and annual expenses as a business student:
Monthly Estimates:
- Rent: USD 350-500: Rent varies based on the type of accommodation. Students typically opt for campus residence, serviced apartments, or shared condos. In nearby cities like Singapore or Hong Kong, rent can easily reach USD 1,000 or more.
- Food: USD 500-800: Kuala Lumpur offers a wide range of food options, from affordable street food to high-end restaurants. Students can save on food costs by eating at local hawker centres or affordable cafes. A typical meal at a local restaurant can cost around USD 2-5, while dining at a mid-range restaurant can cost around USD 10-20.
- Transportation: USD 50-100: KL has a well-connected public transport system, including LRT/MRT and buses. For daily commuting, many students rely on transportation options like the LRT, Grab (similar to Uber), or even walking, as KL is a pedestrian-friendly city. A monthly transport pass costs around USD 30-50.
Annual Estimates:
- Total Living Costs: Approximately USD 13,100. This estimate includes rent, food, transportation, and leisure activities. Compared to Singapore (USD 25,000+ per year) and Hong Kong (USD 30,000+ per year), Kuala Lumpur offers a significantly more affordable lifestyle.
- Visa & Flights: USD 500 for visa and USD 2,000 for flights (estimate). Students should also budget for visa processing fees and international flights, which can vary depending on the country of origin.
Housing Options
When it comes to accommodation, Kuala Lumpur offers several student-friendly options:
- Campus Residence: Many students choose to live in on-campus housing provided by their business school, such as ASB’s student dormitories. These are convenient and generally cheaper, with easy access to campus facilities.
- Serviced Apartments: These are fully furnished apartments that provide more privacy and comfort. Serviced apartments are a popular choice for international students, with prices ranging from USD 350–500 per month.
- Shared Condominiums: For those who want more space, shared condos offer a good balance between cost and comfort. Students often share a condo with others, which helps reduce living expenses.
Lease terms in KL are typically 12-month contracts, with a deposit required (usually one to two months’ rent). Most places are also equipped with modern amenities like Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and 24/7 security.
Food Culture & Budgeting
Malaysia is a food lover’s paradise, and Kuala Lumpur is no exception. The city is home to a variety of cuisines, reflecting the diverse ethnic groups living there, including Malay, Chinese, Indian, and international influences. Halal food options are widely available too, since a large portion of the population practices Islam and follow halal dietary requirements.
- Street Food: KL is famous for its affordable and tasty street food. You’ll find hawker stalls offering dishes like nasi lemak, char kway teow, roti canai, and satay for as little as USD 2-3 per meal.
- Cafes and Restaurants: If you prefer dining out, there are plenty of local cafes and mid-range restaurants. A meal at a casual restaurant can cost USD 5-10, while dining at a higher-end establishment might set you back around USD 15-20 per person.
- Grocery Costs: If you prefer cooking at home, grocery costs in KL are quite affordable. A typical grocery bill for one person might cost around USD 50-80 per month.
Transportation
KL has a well-developed public transportation network that makes getting around the city easy and affordable. Here’s what you need to know:
- LRT/MRT: The Light Rail Transit (LRT) and Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) systems are efficient, safe, and budget-friendly. A single ride costs between USD 0.30-1, depending on the distance. A monthly pass costs around USD 30-50.
- Grab: Grab, the Southeast Asian equivalent of Uber, is widely used in Kuala Lumpur for short-distance travel. Grab is affordable, and many students prefer it for convenience and comfort. A typical short ride costs around USD 2-5.
- Walking: Many parts of Kuala Lumpur, especially around the city centre, are pedestrian-friendly. You can walk to nearby cafes, restaurants, and shops, saving on transport costs.
- KLIA: The Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) is well-connected to the city centre via the KLIA Ekspres. The ride takes approximately 28 minutes and costs around USD 10. This makes weekend getaways to nearby countries like Singapore, Thailand, or Indonesia very convenient too!
Lifestyle & Leisure
Kuala Lumpur is a city that offers a mix of work and play. As a business student, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to unwind and enjoy the city during your free time, for example:
- Coworking Spaces: KL is home to a growing number of coworking spaces, ideal for business students working on projects or startups. Monthly membership fees range from USD 100-200, providing access to comfortable workspaces, high-speed internet, and networking events.
- Nightlife: KL has a vibrant nightlife scene with rooftop bars, nightclubs, and lounges. A night out can cost anywhere from USD 20-50, depending on the venue and drinks ordered.
- Gyms & Parks: If you enjoy staying active, there are plenty of gyms and parks to explore. A gym membership typically costs around USD 30-50 per month, while parks such as the KLCC Park offer a great place to relax and exercise for free.
- Cultural Festivals: KL celebrates a wide range of festivals, such as Hari Raya, Deepavali, Chinese New Year, and more. These festivals are great for immersing yourself in the local culture and connecting with others.
Safety & Healthcare
Kuala Lumpur is generally a safe city for international students. Crime rates are relatively low compared to other major cities in Southeast Asia, but like any large city, it’s important to stay aware of your surroundings. Safe neighborhoods include KLCC, Bukit Bintang, and Bangsar.
For healthcare, KL has both public and private clinics. International students are advised to get health insurance to cover potential medical expenses. Private healthcare in KL is affordable and offers high-quality care, with many doctors speaking fluent English.
Asia School of Business' Student Voices
We spoke to a few Asia School of Business in collaboration with MIT students about their experience living in Kuala Lumpur. Here’s what they had to say:
"Kuala Lumpur is affordable and very student-friendly. The food is amazing, and you can get by on a small budget. Grab is super convenient, and there are so many places to hang out and relax after class."
– Jane, MBA Student
"I was surprised at how easy it was to settle in KL. I found accommodation quickly, and it’s so affordable compared to other places like Singapore. The cost of living is great for international students."
– Sami, EMBA Student
Checklist & Tips
Here are a few tips to help you settle into life in Kuala Lumpur:
- SIM Cards: Purchase a local SIM card at the airport or a convenience store for affordable data plans.
- Banking: Open a local bank account to make transactions easier.
- Apps: Download Grab for transport, and check out other local apps for food delivery such as Foodpanda and GrabFood.
- Local Etiquette: Malaysians are generally polite and respectful. It’s important to dress modestly when visiting religious sites, and always remove your shoes when entering someone’s home.
Study Business in Kuala Lumpur
Living in Kuala Lumpur offers business students an amazing blend of affordable living, diverse cultural experiences, and the chance to study in one of Asia’s most exciting business hubs. With the support of schools like ASB, international students can thrive academically while enjoying a fulfilling lifestyle at the same time!
To explore the MBA programs in Kuala Lumpur or to book a consultation call with us, visit the links below:
