Australian loves simple Malaysian lifestyle and the quirks

While some expatriates love the excitement offered by Kuala Lumpur’s city life, for David Beasley it was the simple things that made him choose Malaysia as a place to call home.

Beasly, who works as a project management specialist in Cyberjaya, loves pasar malam, eating at mamak shops and the lush greenery around him.

Taking a shot: Beasley enjoys playing pool at his house during his free time.

Originally from Melbourne, Australia, Beasley moved some 10 years ago right after turning 29.

He lives in Puchong, where convenient facilities are nearby.

However, when he first moved to Malaysia, it was not easy to settle in.

But, Beasley was optimistic and confident about the people and decided not to give up.

“The first year, it was difficult to make friends because as friendly as the locals are, they are cautious about letting anyone get closer to them.

“I did not want to be part of the expat community, it defeats the purpose of living in a foreign land. I wanted be to be part of the local culture and learn to adapt to the Malaysian lifestyle. That’s why I chose to live in Puchong.

“The quality of life here is good and food is cheap,” he said.

Beasley admits that traffic can be ghastly at times but it is something he has gotten accustomed to. “In Melbourne we have trams, so it would be nice if Malaysia had a better public transportation system. “What I do miss about Melbourne, which I think Kuala Lumpur can have more of, is the art scene. The art and live music scene here is not bad, but it’s got a long way to go,” he added.

Asked what the one thing is he needs to learn more of , Beasley said it is the Malay language. “I can speak sikit-sikit to get by with ordering food at the mamak shop. But since everyone speaks in English here, I have not put in much effort to improve my Malay,” he said.

“I have learnt to differentiate the cultural practices of every race in the country, down to weddings, funerals and celebrations. “I met my fiance here, through Facebook, and that is surely one of the best things that has happened to me here,” he said.

-thestar online.