The main point is the cost..

The newer inverter aircons run a lot lower costs and you gain the ROI (returns on Investment) within the number of running hours as compared to a conventional aircon..

So if you are paying the monthly bill it makes sense to have a cheaper running unit.. like an owner or tenant who's paying the monthly electricity bill..

On the other hand if you are the landlord or the developer you will buy a cheaper initial cost unit..

As previously worked out an inverter can get back its cost difference within 2 to 3 years of its run time and saves you money then after compared to the non-inverter..

I remember working it out but that was too long ago and I'm too lazy to look it up so you'll have to do it yourself..

Look for the Malaysian Energy Star ratings .. Goggle it up .. either web sites, shops where the tags are hung

Look for the Annual average energy usage for an inverter and a non-inverter of an electrical appliance of your choice..

The difference is the savings and ROI..

Have fun..
Edit* The electrician is either not properly trained or not telling you the whole truth..

All breakers are rated to the maximum demand current which is the starting current.. not the running current..

Sooner or later that breaker will fail, will not trip, start a short circuit melting that wire and burn ..

It's easier to comply to the ST's recommendations..

About 40% different from my old bill.

And change from 1hp to 1.5hp.

For first floor living hall where it can be a rectangular but one side which opens to walkway and the staircase area, or a long rectangular shape, cooling is only focused at one small area and not the entire opening areas. You don't need to put a big hp air-cond at the main area just to blow the air to the other open areas where cooling is not required. Ditto irregular shape of living room as not all living rooms are rectangular as some will have odd shapes with openings to another section or few sections.

Yes, location of the room is also a factor as rooms which are facing the direct evening sun will be hotter than one that's not. A way to alleviate the hot room is to install dark heat-rejecting tints with high TSER on the windows as it may help to a certain extent.

from what I've read,
most common : york, daikin, acson
good price : compare in lazada.com.my

I got 2hp at living hall, 1hp in around 100sqft and 1.5hp at around 160sqft.. basically around RM 120