I have recently received an invitation to explore an opportunity in the UK with an automotive company. While it is not yet confirmed, I feel the probability is high, as I was personally contacted by the hiring manager, who also happens to be one of my best friends from my time in the US.

I spent eight years in the US early in my career, following only three years in Malaysia after graduation. I returned for family reasons and never intended to stay in the US forever. While I miss my time in the US, I do not regret my decision to come back. I missed many important events and moments with my family and friends while I was in the US, and being back in Malaysia feels like home.

However, I acknowledge that the quality of life is not as high as it was in the US. I was earning USD $11,000 per month, whereas now I earn RM 11,000 per month, which is considered a top-of-the-line salary for my experience and field in Malaysia. The traffic in Senai Johor, where I work, is not too bad, and it only takes me 15 minutes to travel to and from work.

To put things into perspective, earning USD $11,000 per month in the city where I lived in the US (Novi, MI) is equivalent to earning RM 30,000-40,000 per month in KL. I never had to worry about money or commitments while I was in the US, and there was always at least $3,000 left over from my monthly income, regardless of how much I spent.

If I were to return overseas, I know that the quality of life would be better, as I experienced this during my time in the US. My wife and child would follow me there, but I would miss my family and friends, as I have a small, tight-knit circle. Additionally, I would be leaving a job that pays top dollar in Malaysia. As my network in Malaysia is limited, it may be difficult for me to find a job, especially as management positions tend to go to those with connections. Although there may be job openings, it is rare for an outside candidate to secure a management role. Therefore, there is a risk that I may not be able to find a job if I return to Malaysia.
Can't depend on my former companies in Malaysia, the top management guys just never leave.

Ultimately, the decision is mine, but I would appreciate hearing from others who have been in a similar situation. If anyone has any experience or advice to share, I am open to it.

I lived in the US for more than a decade - completed my schooling and worked there as well. I came back to Malaysia because of circumstances at that time and the fact that one of my family members moved back due to health reasons (insurance was damn expensive back in the US). Uprooting myself after building a life overseas was extremely difficult, and had to start all over again, building a network, finding a career and making friends as an adult.

Ultimately, the sacrifices paid off and I am currently working in management at a financial institution and earning comfortably (and no, this position in management wasn’t made through connections - I just randomly applied, attended the interview and got it lol). Life in Malaysia isn’t so bad and I go back to the US regularly to see my friends and family members who decided to live there permanently, but if I had a chance to work overseas in Europe, I would take it due to the pay.

Your family members and friends will always be here for you so don’t limit yourself if you get an opportunity to work overseas.

This post has been edited by mataharih: Apr 8 2023, 08:32 PM