Name: Tumbay Pandair
Home Country: Singapore
Marital Status: Married, with two kids
Other countries you have lived in: USA, Canada
What brought you to Malaysia?
Marriage brought me here! My husband is Malaysian and we got married in 1992. We love living here and my time here has certainly been heightened by my relationship with my wonderful sister-inlaw, and her three fabulous daughters who we are very close with.
What do you like or dislike about the country?
I love the lush greenery, even in the middle of the city! Of course, no one can talk about Malaysia without talking about the food, so that’s a no brainer. I absolutely love all the food here. It’s so tricky to pick a favourite! I also love the many spas and reflexology places – they are perfect for unwinding after a tough day! The only thing I really dislike would be the traffic jams. They have gotten much worse, so that is definitely not something I enjoy – it makes going out really tricky sometimes!
Name three typical weekend activities you enjoy most.
My weekends are typically spent with my family. Everyone often has such busy schedules, it’s nice to be able to relax and enjoy time with them over a great meal. I also enjoy cooking lots – I do a mean chicken curry with potatoes! We also love going to the movies and indulging in some window shopping!
What is your favourite holiday destination here? Why?
It has to be Melaka. It’s near enough for a day trip and if you’d like, you could stay for the whole weekend and soak up all the culture and history. There’s also a beach and the food is just fantastic! Whenever we go, we make a beeline towards the famous chicken rice ball shop in Jonker Walk, and hop on a rickshaw ride afterwards. So much fun!
Describe a memorable eating experience you have had here.
We were in Kemaman (in Terengganu) and stopped to try out the famed baked crabs in the area. It was the best hassle-free crab eating experience of my life! The meat was so soft and tender; we didn’t struggle getting it out at all. I’d recommend it to anyone.
What do you miss most about your home country?
I think all expats miss their family, but I’m lucky enough to live just an hour’s flight away from my home, so I do make frequent trips home. I also do miss the food at home, believe it or not!
What advice do you have for a newly arrived expat?
Be able to adapt and adjust to the way of life in any country, and it will be become your home! The best part is to just be in the moment, and enjoy everything that comes your way – you’re guaranteed to have a great experience like that.
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