Life in Malaysia: A Warm Journey of Growth and Ambitions
As I sit here in the warm and welcoming environment of Kuala Lumpur's outskirts, I can't help but contrast my current life with what I imagine Japan must feel like now—cold winds and the beginnings of winter. Here in Malaysia, it’s perpetually summer, and this tropical climate mirrors the sense of warmth I’ve come to associate with this chapter of my life.
The Comforts of Living in Malaysia
Malaysia offers a blend of cultural diversity, delicious cuisine, and an ever-friendly community. Living close to KL (Kuala Lumpur), I have easy access to modern amenities, vibrant city life, and tranquil nature escapes, all within a short drive. The warmth is not just in the weather but also in the people, who greet you with smiles and open arms regardless of your background.
One thing I’ve truly grown to appreciate is how living here simplifies life in ways I hadn’t considered. No shoveling snow in winter or dealing with freezing temperatures! Instead, I enjoy lush greenery, year-round outdoor activities, and the joy of sipping kopi o ais in a nearby café while reflecting on my personal and professional journey.
The Role of English in My Growth
When I first arrived, my English skills were passable, but not strong enough to thrive in a professional environment where English is the lingua franca. Over the past year, I’ve had no choice but to dive deep into using English daily, especially at work. It hasn’t always been easy—there were moments when I struggled to find the right words or felt frustrated at my limitations.
However, immersion has proven to be the ultimate teacher. Whether it’s sending emails, participating in meetings, or casually chatting with colleagues, every interaction has become an opportunity to improve. And improve I have. From basic communication to confident expressions of ideas, my journey with English has evolved significantly in just one year.
Lessons on Mastering English
Let me be upfront—learning English (or any language) isn’t something you can accomplish overnight. It takes consistent effort, dedication, and, most importantly, the willingness to immerse yourself in the language. For those looking to improve, here’s what I’ve found works best:
Expose Yourself Daily: Surround yourself with English. Read articles, watch videos, and, most importantly, engage in conversations. The more you hear, read, and speak, the more intuitive the language becomes.
Use It Actively: Understanding English isn’t enough; you must use it. Start small—order food in English, ask for directions, or make small talk. Every sentence you form contributes to your growth.
Learn by Doing: For example, how would you ask someone for help in English? In Japanese, it’s second nature, but in English, you might pause, wondering what phrasing works best. Over time, with repeated practice, you’ll develop “muscle memory” for these situations.
Big Dreams: Where English Will Take Me
I often think about the next step in my career. With my growing English proficiency, I’m considering a move to a truly global company, one that operates on an international scale and allows me to work across cultures. Alternatively, I dream of launching my own business—one that can thrive in the competitive global market.
And yes, I aim high. My ultimate goal? To generate $100 trillion. While it may sound audacious, this figure symbolizes more than money—it represents limitless potential and the belief that with enough ambition, strategy, and persistence, anything is achievable.
Final Thoughts
Malaysia has been an incredible chapter in my life, not only for its warm climate and vibrant culture but also for the personal growth it has enabled. Whether it’s mastering English, setting ambitious goals, or simply enjoying the present moment, living here has been transformative.
If you’re considering making a similar move, I wholeheartedly recommend embracing the challenge. It’s not just about the location—it’s about who you become along the way.