Opinions on Leaving Malaysia: Choices, Reasons, and the Case for America

David, a self-proclaimed resident of the best nation on earth, Malaysia, candidly shares his thoughts on the idea of leaving his homeland for another country. While some view the prospect of relocating to a different country with optimism, many others, like David, perceive it with a mixture of skepticism and gratitude for the blessings of their current home.

Choosing to Stay in Malaysia

For those who believe they already reside in the best nation, the idea of leaving can seem redundant. This sentiment is encapsulated in David's staunch stance: “What would be the point? I already live in the best Nation on earth— and furthermore, I don’t understand how anyone can just leave everything behind for a foreign place, unless perhaps they live somewhere truly rotten.” He firmly believes that America, often viewed as a pinnacle of opportunity, might not be the most conducive option for everyone.

Leaving for Opportunity

However, the narrative changes when individuals are presented with genuine opportunities to seek better prospects in a new country. David reflects on his own journey, leaving Malaysia to settle in Singapore, a place he describes as “wealthy and well managed.” His decision was driven by factors such as a lack of winter, easy living conditions, and proximity to interesting places for travel. He also values the presence of English as a lingua franca, making his life in Singapore exceptionally comfortable.

Challenges and Opportunities

The importance of such decisions is not without its challenges. David highlights his journey as an IT engineer, working in Singapore, the USA, and Australia for about 20 years before retiring to Malaysia. However, he found himself feeling like an expatriate in his own homeland, driven by personal and professional stagnation.

His experience with the Philippines nationality laws stands out as a turning point. When mandated to have Philippine citizenship for work, David faced significant hurdles in obtaining permanent resident status despite being in the country for 24 years. This prompted him to seek citizenship in the USA, which he could easily attain due to his professional status, while maintaining his Philippines medical license.

The Case for America

Determined to continue his medical career, David found freedom to practice in the USA, a feat made possible by his exchange status. This experience underscores the stark contrast between the challenges of gaining permanent residency in his home country and the ease of obtaining citizenship in the USA.

Conclusion

David’s story serves as a poignant reminder that while some individuals are content in their homeland, others may find the allure of new beginnings more compelling. Whether by circumstance or desire, the decision to leave often hinges on a complex mix of personal, professional, and socioeconomic factors. Ultimately, the best choice varies from one individual to another, shaped by unique life experiences and prospects.