expatriate_handbook_july_2015.pdf

HANDBOOK

Working & Living in Cat City

X-FAB Sarawak Sdn. Bhd.

Expat Handbook

X - F A B E x p a t r i a t e H a n d b o o k Page 2

Living in Kuching Automobile & Healthcare Expat Information 6 Property 17 Automobile 30 Malaysia My Second Home 8 Education 20 Healthcare 33 Travel Agency

Financial

34 Expat Directory

14 Taxable income

15 Personal Relief and Separate Food & Places of Interest

16 Employee Provident Fund 21 Food

24 Places of interest in Kuching

Contents

You may visit http://www.expatgomalaysia.com/ or call 03-2094 9664

to get your FREE copy of Expat Magazine delivered to you every month

Expat Handbook The


Welcome to X-FAB Sarawak! We are happy to have you as part of our X-FAB family.

As you start your career journey with us, we would like to introduce our Expatriate Handbook, which sets out the general information on living in Kuching, Sarawak and working in X-FAB Sarawak. We believe proper onboarding program and guiding policies form a crucial component to overall employees satisfaction and motivation. As such, this handbook brings together information about expatriates benefits and practices. There will be constant reviews to ensure that the information in this handbook is up to date and meeting the needs of our employees. This handbook is intended to provide relevant information in clear and understandable language. However, in the event of any conflict between the information in this handbook and our official documents i.e. policies, program, documents or contracts; the official documents shall govern. While going through this handbook, if you have any queries/concerns with regards to the contents, please see and discuss with the Human Resource representative at any time.

Introduction


As the worlds leading foundry group for analog/mixed-signal semiconductor

application,

X-FAB creates a clear alternative to typical foundry services by combining solid, specialized

expertise in advanced analog and mixed-signal process technologies with excellent service, a high

level of responsiveness and first-class technical support. X-FAB manufactures wafers for

automotive, industrial, consumer, medical, and other applications on modular CMOS and BiCMOS

processes in geometries ranging from 1.0 to 0.18 m, and special BCD, SOI and MEMS long-

lifetime processes.

With its five manufacturing sites in Germany, Malaysia and the USA, X-FAB has a combined capacity

of ~72,000 eight inch equivalent wafer starts per month and employs 2,500 employees worldwide.

X-FAB MEMS Foundry Wins MEMS Foundry of the Year Award at MEMS Executive Congress.

Honored for Best in MEMS and Sensors Innovation; Named Runner-Up for MEMS Supplier of the

Year Award. X-FAB Sarawak Sdn. Bhd has won 2 National Awards in 2015 National Labour Day

Celebration. Both awards were presented by Malaysia Prime Minister, Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak in

Borneo Convention Centre Kuching (BCCK) on May 1st, 2015:

The Prime Ministers Award for Excellence in Human Resources

The 1Malaysia Employer Award (Big Companies)


Welcome to the land of hornbill

Kuching is the capital city of Sarawak, Malaysia's largest state situated on the island of Borneo. A modern metropolitan city cloaked with romantic colonial charm, Kuching extends its warm hospitality and captivates guests to enjoy a relaxed and affordable lifestyle. Blessed with abundant natural resources, Sarawak is fortunate to have clean air. Sarawak is also famous for its national parks, traditions, crafts, wild life parks and most of all, friendly faces! The rich cultural diversities of more than 20 different indigenous ethnic groups as well as the extensive Malay and Chinese traditions paint a colorful portrait of Sarawak's ethnic and cultural communities. Also known as the Cat City, Kuching also offers an array of tasty local delicacies, fine dining as well as fusion of international cuisines.

Living in Kuching


Housing costs vary depending on the location. Whether you are buying or renting a house, here are some things to consider:

Budget Size Facilities Amenities

Below is a list of the average asking prices by location for Kuching properties:

Apartment / Condominium

Apartment / Condo Location No. of

Bedroom Rental/Month

(RM)

De Summit Condominium BDC 3 1,500 3,000

Green Height Condominium BDC 3-4 2,500 4,000

Village Grove Condominium BDC 2-5 1,650 2,500

Desa Pine Apartment Tabuan 2-3 1,200 2,000

Park Avenue Tabuan 2-3 2,500 3,000

Tribeca Condominium Tabuan 3 2,500 3,000

Eden Height Condominium Airport 3 1,500 2,000

D Infinia Residence Condominium Airport 3 2,300 3,000

The Ryegates Airport 2 2,500 3,000

Floridale Apartment Wan Alwi 3 1,600 2,000

Saville Suites Apartment 3rd Mile 3 2,000 3,100

Stack 128 Apartment 3rd Mile 2-3 1,500 1,800

Riverbank Suites Town 2-3 2,200 3,000

Bampfylde Residence Town 2 -3 3,500 5,000

Riverine Condominium Petanak 3 2,000 3,200

Kasuma Resort Petra Jaya 3 1,600 4,000

Sky Villa Condominium MJC 3 1,200 2,000

Courtyard Sanctuary Condominium MJC 2-3 1,000 1,500

DJewel Condominium Hui Sing 3 2,800 3,500

The Tropics Condominium Jalan Song 3 2,300 3,000

Property


Houses

Location Type of Houses Not Furnished

(RM)

Partial

Furnished

(RM)

Fully

Furnished

(RM)

BDC Double Storey Semi-D 1,000 1,400 1,500 2,500 2,600 3,600

Tabuan area Double Storey Terrace 1,000 1,300 1,400 1,500 1,600 2,000

Jalan Song Double Storey Terrace 1,500 1,600 1,700 1,800 1,900 2,500

Double Storey Semi-D 1,500 1,700 1,800 2,200 2,300 2,500

Stutong Double Storey Terrace 1,200 1,400 1,500 1,700 1,800 2,300

Stampin Double Storey Terrace 1,000 1,200 1,300 1,800 1,900 2,200


Kota

Samarahan

Double Storey Terrace 1,000 - 1,100 1,200 1,300 1,400 1,800


Batu Kawa Double Storey Terrace 1,000 - 1,100 1,200 1,300 1,400 1,800


3rd Mile Double Storey Terrace 1,000 - 1,100 1,200 1,300 1,400 1,800


MJC Double Storey Terrace 900 1,000 1,100 1,200 1,300 1,500


Riveria Double Storey Terrace 1,000 1,100 1,200 1,300 1,400 1,500

You may also refer to the website listed below to help you in your house hunting:

www.mudah.com.my

www.kencoproperty.com

www.wfwy.com www.propertyguru.com.m

Good Luck in your house hunting!


Our comprehensive list of International Schools and education system in Kuching and procedure to register can be found below:

Lodge International School

Lodge International School caters for students in the British National Curriculum from Year 2 (age 7) through the Cambridge International Advanced Level (age 16 and above). All course textbooks are sourced from the UK. At the Lower and Middle School levels, from Year 2 to Year 9, the subjects offered are English, Mathematics, Science, History, Geography, Design and Technology, Information Technology, Art and Design, Music and Physical Education. In addition to Malay Language, students have the option of studying Korean or Mandarin Chinese. All Malaysian students are to take Moral and Local studies in Year 5 and Year 6 and in Year 7 to Year 9, they are also required to study Malaysian History. Islamic Studies are to be taken by all Muslim students. Students are prepared for the University of Cambridge IGCSE and IGCE A level examinations in the Senior School. A wide range of extra-curricular activities, which include sports, societies and intellectual pursuits take place after school. Students are expected to broaden their interests and skills by participating in these activities. Mandarin is taught as extra-curricular activities on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday.

Fees

Registration Fee (Non-Refundable / Non Transferable Payable Only Once)

Kindergarten RM 250.00 per admission

International RM 500.00 per admission

The Registration Fee is only refundable when the School is unable to offer a place to a child on or before 31 January of each year or a child is not admitted on account of him failing the assessment test.

Parents whose children are admitted to Lodge Group of Schools shall automatically become members of the Lodge School Association and have to pay a membership fee (Refundable) as per scheduled next page.

Education


Lodge School Association Membership Fee (Refundable)

Kindergarten* Primary Secondary

First Child RM 4,500.00 RM 6,500.00 RM 8,500.00

Second Child RM 3,000.00 RM 3,000.00 RM 3,000.00

Third Child RM 2,000.00 RM 2,000.00 RM 2,000.00

Fourth Child Nil Nil Nil

Assessment Fee (Non-refundable)

A fee of RM100.00 to be paid by students who have to sit for written assessment tests before admission into the school.

Miscellaneous Fees (Non-refundable)

Per Term x 4 Per Year

Kindergarten RM 170.00 RM 680.00

International School RM 150.00 RM 600.00

School Fees (Non-refundable)

Per Term x 4 Per Year

Kindergarten

Kindy A - C RM 750.00 RM 3,000.00

International School

Year 2 6 RM 1,210.00 RM 4,840.00

Year 7 8 RM 1,530.00 RM 6,120.00

Year 9 RM 1,850.00 RM 7,400.00

Year 10 11 (O Level) RM 2,720.00 RM 10,880.00

Year 12 - 13 (A Level) RM 3,000.00 (Per Term x 6) RM 18,000.00 (whole course)

Lodge Group of Schools Lorong Keranji 4E, Jalan Keranji 4, Tabuan Desa, 93350 Kuching Sarawak. Tel: +6082 363 554 Fax: +6082 362 517 E-mail: http://[email protected]


Tunku Putra School

Tunku Putra School Kindergarten offers an exciting range of learning. At the center of our curriculum framework is the child and the belief that children are observant, inquisitive and active learners. Based on this belief, our curriculum advocates the 4 principles which guide the teaching and learning in the Kindergarten:

A learning environment that fosters an integrated and inclusive approach to learning Children learn from actively investigating the world around them Children learn from their peers, the school community and the wider community Learning is a complex cognitive activity that cannot be rushed

In International Primary we recognize that your child has a unique set of attributes and abilities. We provide a caring, supportive learning environment for students where together we strive for excellence as the students prepare to become lifelong learners. We aim in International Primary for each child to succeed to their potential and fulfil the schools vision of creating a holistic approach to learning where the students are active, engaged, challenged and their learning is meaningful. International Primary will:

Create a safe, happy and healthy environment in which each student feels secure and valued

Use a broad and balanced curriculum and employ a variety of teaching styles to help all children develop their potential in all areas of school life

Celebrate the cultural diversity of the school population, drawing on it to enrich all pupils development

Develop the social values and skills required for your childs future success

The aim of the International Secondary Programme is to build upon the solid foundations established by the Primary Programme in order to give students the best possible opportunity to succeed in their studies and in the world that lies beyond the school gates.


Fees

Clas

s

Annual

(RM)

Instalment 1

(RM)

Instalment 2

(RM)

Instalment 3

(RM)

(1 Jan 30 Apr) (1 May 31 Aug) (1 Sept 31 Dec)

Tuition

Fees Consolidated

Charges Total Fees

Tuition Fees

Consolidated Charges

Total Fees

Tuition Fees


Total Fees

Tuition Fees


Total Fees

K 1-3 6,500 500 7,000 2,200 500 2,700 2,200 - 2,200 2,100 - 2,100

IP 2-3 11,500 700 12,200 3,900 250 4,150 3,900 250 4,150 3,700 200 3,900

IP 4-6 12,500 900 13,400 4,200 300 4,500 4,200 300 4,500 4,100 300 4,400

IS7-11

17,500 500 18,000 5,900 500 6,400 5,900 - 5,900 5,700 - 5,700

Admission Fees (Non-Refundable)

1. Assessment Fee RM 50.00 2. Application Fee RM 1,500.00

Miscellaneous Fees

1. Visa Application Fee (Non-Refundable) RM 1,000.00 2. Medical Fee (Non-Refundable) RM 200.00 3. Resource Fund (Annual - Non-Refundable) RM 500.00 4. Secondary Textbooks user pay 5. Ednoland Computer Programme (Kindergarten only RM30.00 per month [Jan-Oct]) user pay 6. School Uniforms user pay 7. School Children Accident Insurance (Annual) RM 20.00 8. School Children Accident Insurance (Optional for student visa purpose only) RM 201.00

Discounts (Tuition Fees only)

1. Payment of a full years fees (By 31st January) 2%

2. 3rd sibling attending the school at the same time 5%

3. 4th & subsequent sibling/s attending the school at the same time 10%

(Children attending the school under basis (b-c) are not entitled to any further discounts.) (Canteen meals must be arranged and paid for, with the school canteen operator.)

Tunku Putra School Jalan Stadium, Petra Jaya, 93050 Kuching, Sarawak Tel: +6082-313900 Fax: +6082 313 970 E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.tps.edu.my


Tadika Rhema

Start them young INVEST in their formative years | CAPITALISE on their natural curiosity | STIMULATE their thinking skills | EXPAND their world beyond the self | DEVELOP an upright character | PREPARE them to be global citizens |

NURTURE a lifelong Love for learning

Tadika Rhema covers the MOE NSPC (National Standard Preschool Curriculum) and more

Fees

Registration Fee (Non-Refundable / Non Transferable Payable Only Once)

RM 100.00 per admission

School Fees Per Term x 4 Per Year

Junior 1 RM 900.00 RM 3,600.00

Junior 2 - 3 RM 900.00 RM 3,600.00

Afternoon Class (Chinese & Malay Language) RM 900.00 RM 3,600.00


Additional Fees

Miscellaneous fee RM 200.00 per year

Commitment Deposit RM 200.00

Workbooks/ Books RM 80.00 per year

Entrance Assessment RM 50.00 per year

Project RM 100.00 per year

Folder & Motor skill Workbook RM 30.00

Computer Fees RM 180.00 per year

Class Party RM 30.00

2 School Outings RM 30.00

Book Retention Fee RM 100.00

AIA Insurance RM 30.00 per year

Basket RM 35.00 (Optional)

Uniform & Socks RM 170.00

Car Stickers RM 2.00 per year

School Calendar RM 12.00

Tadika Rhema 26-27 Lorong Keranji 4, Tabuan Desa, 93350 Kuching, Sarawak. Tel: +6082 367 888 Fax: +6082 360 600 E-mail: [email protected]


Taxable / Employment Income

Employment income includes the following:

Any wages, salary, remuneration, leave pay, fees, commission, bonus, gratuities, perquisites or allowance, payment of household expenses, club subscriptions, subsidized interest on loan, school fees for children (whether in money or otherwise)

The value of the use of or enjoyment of any benefits or amenities (e.g. use of companys motor vehicle, provision of food, clothing, household furniture, drivers services, club membership)

The value of living accommodation provided by the employer Payment of the employees personal expenses, e.g. utility bills, insurance premium Provision of overseas leave passages exceeding RM 3,000.00 per annum Relocation expenses

What you have to do

Submission of Income Tax Return

An expatriate employee is required to complete the Income Tax Return and submit it to the Inland Revenue before 30

th April of each year.

It is compulsary for expatriate to pay income tax in the following circumstances: Resides in Malaysia for less than 60 days Income tax is waived Resides in Malaysia for 60 days or more but less than 182 days Income tax rate at 26% Resides in Malaysia for more than 182 days, continuously or in total Income tax rate will

be based on the Scheduler Tax Deduction (STD)

Salary Range (per annum) Tax Rate (%)

2,501 5,000 1

5,001 20,000 3

20,001 35,000 7

35,001 50,000 12

50,001 70,000 19

70,001 100,000 24

100,001 250,000 26

>250,000 26

If you have not received an Income Tax Return by 31st March in each calendar year, you must

immediately write to the Inland Revenue (i.e. the branch which issued you with the last Income Tax Return) for an Income Tax Return for the relevant year before 14

th April.

For more information, you can visit www.hasil.gov.my

Financial


Personal Reliefs and Separate Assessment

The following reliefs are available to a resident in Malaysia:

Personal Reliefs RM

Taxpayer - Personal Relief 9,000.00

Wife - If she has no source of income or elects for combined assessment 3,000.00

Husband - If he has no source of income or elects for combined assessment 3,000.00

Children:

Below 18 years old

18 years and above o Schooling o Studying at Higher Education Institute

Disabled child (Unmarried)

Disabled child above 18 years old studying in Higher Education Institute

1,000.00

1,000.00 6,000.00 5,000.00

11,000.00

Life Insurance premiums / EPF 6,000.00

Insurance premiums on insurance for education or medical benefits: 3,000.00

Medical expenses for parents

Medical expenses for taxpayer, spouse and children on serious diseases (Include RM 500.00 for medical examination expenses)

5,000.00 5,000.00

Disabled person:

Taxpayer

Spouse

Supporting equipment for disabled taxpayer, spouse, children or parent (Maximum)

6,000.00 3,500.00 5,000.00

Education fees (Self)

Other than Masters or PhD (Law, Accounting, Islamic Finance, Technical, Vocational, Industrial, Scientific or Technology)

5,000.00

Purchase of books, journals, magazines and other similar publication. 1,000.00

Purchase of personal computer for individual (Once in 3 years) 3,000.00

Purchase of sports equipment 300.00

Special relief (Eligible if income less than RM96,000 per year and limited to taxable income)

2,000.00

Income Tax rebates:

Rebates given to taxpayer RM Individual

Chargeable income not exceeding RM 35,000.00 400.00

Additional rebate for wife/ husband

If she does not elect for esparate assessment or has no income orelects for combined assessment with husband

400.00


Income Tax deductions:

Rebates given to taxpayer RM

Cash donation paid to approved institutions or organization Not

exceeding 7% of

aggregate income

Gift of money or contribution in-kind to any sports activity or approved sports body

Cash donation to public libraries and libraries of school and institutions of higher education

20,000.00

Employee Provident Fund

The Employee Provident Fund (EPF) has been set up by the Malaysian Government to cater for retirement. It is compulsory for each employee and employer to contribute to the fund. However, it is an option for an expatriate to contribute. The current contribution rate is 11% for employee and 12% for employer. The contribution rate may be amended from time to time by the Malaysian Government. The money is refunded to the employee on cessation of employment and on leaving the country.

For more information, you can visit www.kwsp.gov.my


Automobile Locally made cars dominate on the roads as tax-breaks make them cheaper to buy, and they are easier to get fixed if things go wrong. Perodua is currently the biggest selling local brand. It has a very popular small SUV and modern small cars. Youll see a lot of locally assembled models of Korean cars too; Hyundai (Inokom) and Kia (Naza) both have regional partnerships. Over the past couple of years, the choice of new models on the market has improved, while waiting times for new cars have reduced. There are also plenty of imported brands on the streets, including Honda, Toyota, Mercedes Benz, BMW and Volvo. For car insurance, you may wish to ask your friends or HR Department which insurer they use and perhaps that could also be an option to picking cheaper car insurance in the market.

Company Address Tel No. Website

RG Car Hire

& Services

Main Office: Lot 5306, 1

st Floor, Jln Stutong Baru,

Stampin Resettlement Scheme, 93350 Kuching. Airport Counter: G19, Ground Floor, Arrival Hall Lobby, Kuching International Airport, 93722 Kuching.

+6 082 578 875 +6 013 818 6679 +6 013 827 7718 +6 082 570 075 +6 019 818 3112

http://www.rgcarhiretour.com.my

Car Rental

Kuching

N/A N/A www.carrentalkuching.com

Herts Car

Rental & Car Sales

Airport Counter: GL20, Ground Floor, Terminal Building Kuching International Airport, Kuching.

+6082450 740 www.hertz.com

Green Matrix

Car Rental

No. 15, Lrg Simpor 4, Taman Trinora, 93050, Petra Jaya, Kuching.

+6 019 866 4673 +6 019 848 2380

www.car-rental-kuching.com

Flexi Car Rental

Head Office: Lot 7050, 2

nd Floor, Jalan Sekama,

93300 Kuching. Airport Counter: GL18, Ground Floor, Terminal Building, Kuching International Airport, 93722 Kuching.

+6 082 335 282 +6 082 452 200

www.flexicarrental.com

Automobile & Healthcare


Kuching Rent

A Car

Main Office: Sarawak Tourism Complex, Block D1, Jln Tun Abg Haji Openg, 93000, Kuching, Sarawak. Airport Counter: Kuching International Airport, Counter No.6, International Arrival Hall Jln Lapangan Terbang, 93277 Kuching

+6 082 422 955 +6 082 463 318

www.kuchingrentacar.com

Mayflower

Car Rental

No. 254, 1st Floor, Jalan Padungan

93100 Kuching. +6 082 410 110 www.mayflow

ercarrental.com.my

Kuching Car

Rental

N/A +6 014 999 9688 http://kuching-carrental.blogspot.com/

Procedure for Conversion of Foreign Driving License to Malaysian Driving License

1. Automatic Conversion of Foreign Driving License to Malaysian

Application can be made at any Road Transport Department (RTD) state office. (For more information, please log on to RTDs website at www.jpj.gov.my)

Complete JPJ L1 form (can be obtained at the RTD Office) attaching the following documents:

Original and copy of valid driving license. (For expired driving license, the expiry date should not exceed 3 years)

One colored photograph (25 mm x 32 mm)

English translation of the driving license by Embassy of the issuing country

Original and copy of the passport

Processing fee - RM 20.00

Categories of license which may apply for conversion:

Competence Driving License (CDL) RM 30.00 (Car) For 1 year

RM 20.00 (Motorcycle) For 1 year

Probationary driving License (P) RM 60.00 (Car) For 2 years

RM 40.00 (Motorcycle) For 2 years


Terms and Conditions:-

Motorcycle licenses will be issued according to their classes

i.e. B1, B2 and B: (Please attach supporting documents confirming the motorcycles c.c. together with the application)

Competence Driving License (CDL) will be issued to applicants who have possessed that license for more than 2 years

Probationary Driving License (PDL) will be issued if the applicant does not comply with CDL condition

2. Conversion of Singapore Driving License to Malaysian Driving License

Application can be done at RTD state office. Complete JPJ 1 form and attach following documents:

Original Singapore competent driving license (CDL) or probationary driving license (P)

Original and photocopy of the driving license

Original and photocopy copy of the passport

One colored photograph (25 mm x 32mm)

Processing fee - RM 20.00

License fee:-

Competence Driving License (CDL) RM 30.00 (Car) For 1 year

RM 20.00 (Motorcycle) For 1 year

Probationary driving License (P) RM 60.00 (Car) For 2 years

RM 40.00 (Motorcycle) For 2 years


Normah Medical Specialist Centre

General contact Toll free line: 1-300-88-4677 General telephone line: +60 82 440 055 General fax line: +60 82 442 600 Email : [email protected] Address: Normah Medical Specialist Centre Lot 937, Section 30 KTLD Jalan Tun Abdul Rahman , Petra Jaya, 93050 Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia.

Emergency contact Emergency call No: +60 82 311 999 (phone) Emergency fax no: +60 82 312291 (fax)

General contact Phone: +6082 507 333 Fax: +6082 507 733 E-mail: [email protected] Address: Lot 10992, Sec 64, KTLD, Jalan Tun Jugah, 93350, Kuching, Sarawak.

General Contact Lot 5164-5165, Block 16 KCLD, 2 1/2 Mile, Rock Road, Taman Timberland, 93250 Kuching, Sarawak. Tel: +6082 234 466 Fax: +6082 232 259 Email: [email protected]

Healthcare in Kuching


Kuching is the usual entry point for travelers wanting to explore the Malaysian state of Sarawak in Borneo. Boasted as one of the cleanest cities in Asia, Kuching has just the right amount of tourism. The food in Kuching is excellent, while prices are yet to be inflated by the tourist masses. Borneo's isolation and unique tribal history have produced many delicious foods that are difficult to find elsewhere. Clean waterways, rain forests full of life, and an average of 247 rainy days a year mean that fresh, healthy food is always on hand!

Food in Kuching Not to be Missed

Sarawak Laksa: The local Sarawak laksa is a creamy, spicy, local variation of Malaysia's ubiquitous soup-noodle bowl. Jumbo prawns, fresh lime, and coriander lend a unique flavor to the broth which is thicker than that found in most noodle bowls - heavy but delicious. The noodles are usually made from thin vermicelli.

Midin: If you try only one unique, local food in Kuching, make it midin. Pronounced "mee deen", midin is a green jungle fern that grows in Sarawak. Unlike other greens that get soft when cooked, midin remains crunchy giving it an enjoyable texture. The thin, curly shoots are a delicious and healthy alternative to noodles and rice. Midin is often stir-fried with garlic, ginger, or optionally shrimp paste and chili.

Kolo Mee: Consisting of boiled egg noodles, kolo mee is the favorite noodle dish of many locals. The broth is usually made of vinegar, pork or peanut oil, and is flavored with garlic or shallots. Minced pork or beef is often added, although you can request the dish without it. Char siew is thinly-sliced BBQ pork added in strips on top of the noodles.

Coffee and Tea in Kuching

Locally known as kopi and teh, people in Sarawak love their coffee and tea. A slightly-confusing system of getting what you want in cafes has developed. If you do not specify how you take your coffee or tea, the default is to load the drink with milk and sugar!

Kopi: If you just ask for coffee, expect sugar and sweet, condensed milk Kopi-C: Pronounced "see", this coffee comes with unsweetened, evaporated milk

Kopi-O: Pronounced "oh", this removes the milk from the coffee but possibly not the sugar

Kopi-O Kosong: Simply black coffee, served hot and strong

The Malay word for sugar is "gula"; the word for milk is "susu".

Kuching Restaurants

Kuching is filled with interesting places to eat that fit all budgets. From luxurious, open-air bistros on the waterfront to steamy food courts serving delicious cheap noodles, you will want to try them all.

Food around Kuching


You can always refer to the latest/updated food directories in Kuching at:

Kuching Food Critics (http://www.kuchingfoodcritics.com/p/food-directory.html) Tripadvisor (http://www.tripadvisor.com.my/Restaurants-g298309-Kuching_Sarawak.html)

Visitors to Kuching will find there's not enough time to fit in all there is to see and do on a day out or multi-day excursion. Kuching is a wonderful place to base yourself, being so close to a huge list of attractions, national parks and jungle trails. Options encompass just about every interest and pastime, from nature-watching and exploring, to experiencing traditional lifestyles through lazy days on the beach, or challenging adventure attractions.

Sarawak Cultural Village and Heritage Centre

Known as the 'Living Museum', the Cultural Village was set up to preserve and showcase Sarawak's cultural heritage. Located at Pantai Damai, Santubong, just 32km from the state capital, Kuching, it is the perfect place to get introduced to local culture and lifestyle. Sprawled across 17 acres, there are about 150 people living in the village, demonstrating traditional daily activities from Sarawak's diverse tribes like the processing of sago and the making of handicrafts. They wear traditional costumes and also put on dances for visitors. The village residents provide information on their various traditional cultures and lifestyles. You can see replicas of buildings that represent every major ethnic group in Sarawak; longhouses of the Iban, Bidayuh and Orang Ulu, a Melanau tall-house and a Chinese farm house among others.

Damai Beach Resort, 93762 Kuching Tel: +6082 846 411 Website: http://www.scv.com.my/

Places of Interest in Kuching


Permai Rainforest Resort

Permai Rainforest Resort is an eco-resort set in pristine Borneo rainforest located on the shores of the South China Sea, and at the foot of mystical Mount Santubong. Carefully designed to minimize impact on the natural environment, it offers a unique rainforest experience. The resort is only 25 km or 30 minutes drive north of Kuching, the capital of Sarawak.

Pantai Damai Santubong, Jalan Sultan Tengah 93050 Kuching Tel: +6082 846 487 / +6082 846 490 Email: [email protected] Website: http://permairainforest.com/

Borneo Highland Resort

One of the most exciting and unique environmentally friendly resort, cocooned in a lush jungle and snuggled within the hills 1000 meters above sea level, it is a retreat one of its kind, offering an exclusive membership club and truly unique residential development by creating a wellness sanctuary for you to retreat to in this region. Located amid untouched natural beauty of the lush tropical rainforest, this little haven is the perfect getaway where one can escape from the hectic city life.

Jalan Borneo Height, 94200 Padawan Kuching Tel: +6019828 0790 / +6019 829 0790 Email: [email protected] Website: http://www.borneohighlands.com.my/


Museum

Sarawak Museum (Old Building) Sarawak Museum (Dewan Tun Abdul Razak) Islamic Heritage Museum Textile Museum Sarawak Women Museum Natural History Museum Chinese Museum Cat Museum

Website: http://www.museum.sarawak.gov.my


National Park

There is a nominal entry fee for all national parks in Sarawak. Check with the National Parks Booking Office in Kuching for the latest fee structure. A permit is required for professional photography or filming, which should be arranged in advance with the National Parks Booking Office. Check with the National Parks Booking Office in Kuching or the Sarawak Forestry website (www.sarawakforestry.com) for the latest fee structure.

National Parks Booking Office Visitors Information Centre, Jalan Tun Abang Haji Openg, 93000 Kuching Sarawak Malaysia Tel: +6082 248 088 Fax: +6082 248 087

Below are just a few of national parks around Kuching. For more in depth information, go to the Sarawak Forestry website stated above.

Kubah National Park Bako National Park Gunung Gading National Park Matang Wildlife Centre Semenggoh Wildlife

Rehabilitation Centre Talang-Satang National Park Tanjung Datu National Park Fairy Cave Wind Cave

Santubong NationaL Park


Borneo Convention Centre Kuching

Meetings, conferences, events and exhibitions in all their forms are ultimately to serve only one common function. To bring people together, encourage conversation and create connections. Connections that will allow people to create ideas, share thoughts and collaborate. The centre is equipped with the latest in communication technologies with wireless internet enveloping the whole area, cutting ledge LAN infrastructure and the latest in Audio/Visual technology to ensure any and all collaboration that happens inside, are widely visible outside.

Borneo Convention Centre Kuching, The Isthmus Sejingkat, 93050 Kuching Kuching Tel: +6082 392 888 Website: http://www.bcck.com.my

Others:

The Sunday Open Market MJC Night Market Old Court House Kuching Waterfront / Esplanade

Kuching Orchid Garden Great Cat Statue Sematan Lundu Disiniland


Contact for more current and update events happening around Kuching city, you may refer to:

Sarawak Tourism Board 5th 7th Floor, Bangunan Wawasan Sarawak Jalan Masjid, 93400 Kuching Sarawak, Malaysia Website: http://www.sarawaktourism.com/

Visitors Information Centre, Kuching Sarawak Tourism Complex (Old Courthouse) Jalan Tun Abang Haji Openg 93000 Kuching, Sarawak Tel: +6082 410 944 Fax: +6082 256 301 Email: vic-kuching@sarawaktourism Opening Hours: Mon Fri, 8.00am 5.00pm Close on Public Holidays and Weekends

Others Link:

Bombastic Borneo http://bombasticborneo.com/current-events/sarawak-events-2015/


Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) Program is promoted by the Government of Malaysia to allow foreigners who fulfill certain criteria, to stay in Malaysia for as long as possible on a multiple-entry social visit pass. The Social Visit Pass is initially for a period of ten (10) years, and is renewable.

Eligibility

It is open to citizens of all countries recognized by Malaysia regardless of race, religion, gender or age. Applicants are allowed to bring their spouses and unmarried children below the age of 21 as dependents.

Incentives available in MM2H:

Special social visit for parents above 60 years old Tax exemption for purchase or import of a car Opportunity to purchase unlimited numbers of residential properties in Malaysia (above

RM1,000,000) Investment in Malaysia Student Pass for enrolment in private educational institutions Tax exemption on pension remitted into Malaysia Bringing in a domestic helper

Malaysia My Second Home Program


Financial Requirements Upon Application:

Requirements Below 50 Years Old 50 Years Old and above

Proof of liquid assets

Minimum RM 500,000 and offshore income of RM10,000 per month.

Options:

Liquid assets OR Current Monthly Offshore Income*

RM 350,000 RM 10,000

New applicants who have purchased properties worth at least RM1 million qualify to place a lower fixed deposit amount upon approval.

Requirements Upon Approval:

Requirements Below 50 Years Old 50 Years Old and above

Fixed Deposit Account RM 300,000 Options: Fixed Deposit OR Current Monthly Offshore Income* RM 150,000 RM 10,000 Show proof of government approved pension funds of RM 10,000

Fixed Deposit Withdrawal (After 1 year)

Applicable only for approved expenses, such as house purchase, education for children in Malaysia and medical purposes.

Withdrawal up to RM 150,000

Withdrawal up to RM 50,000

Min Fixed Deposit Balance

(Throughout stay in Malaysia)

RM 150,000 RM 100,000

Approved participants who have purchased and owned property which were bought at RM1 million and above in Malaysia may comply with the basid fixed deposit requirement of RM100,000 on condition that the property has been fully paid and ownership documents such as grant and land title have alreay been issued. This amount may notbe withdrawn until the participant decides to terminates his participation in MM2H programme.


Programme Terms and Conditions

Medical Report All applicants and their dependents are required to submit a medical report from any private hospital or registered clinic in Malaysia.

Medical Insurance Approved participants and their dependents must possess valid medical insurance coverage that is applicable in Malaysia from any insurance company. However, exemptions may be given for participants who face difficulty in obtaining a medical insurance due to their age or medical condition.

Security Bond (Direct Application Only) Applicants applying directly with MM2H Programme are required to fulfill the security bond condition. Please refer to Personal Bond (You may find the form in the MM2H website) for rate per person by nationality, ranging from RM200.00 to RM2,000.00

Personal Bond (Application Though Agent) Licensed companies are required to provide the personal bond for their clients who have been approved under the MM2H Program.

For more information on this programme, you may contact:

Malaysia My Second Home Ministry of Tourism and Culture Level 1, No.2, Tower 1, Jalan P5/6, Precinct 5, 62200 W.P. Putrajaya, Malaysia

+603 8891 7424/27/34/39

+603 8891 7415

[email protected]

www.mm2h.gov.my

Registered Agent: Ambang Wawasan (MM2H) Sdn Bhd P-11-1-1(B), Plot 11, Chonglin Park, Jalan Tabuan, 93200 Kuching, Sarawak

Li Tze Min

+6082 422 550

+6082 422 559


Travel Agency

Inter-Continental Travel Centre Sdn Bhd Lot 572-573, Section 10, Jalan Nanas,

93400 Kuching, Sarawak.

Tel : +6082 256 155 Website : www.intercont.com.my


Emergency Healthcare / Hospital Police 999

+6082 245 522 Sarawak General Hospital +6082 257 555

Ambulance +6082 230689 Normah Specialist Hospital +6082 440 055 Civil Defense 991 Timberland Medical Centre +6082 234 466 Fire & Rescue 994 Kuching Specialist Hospital +6082 365 777 From Mobile Phone 112 Borneo Medical Centre +6082 507 333

Telecommunication

Directory Service 103 0

Maxis +603 7492 2123

Celcom +603 3630 8888 Other Useful Number

Digi 1-800-68-8000 Kuching Taxi +6082 341 818 Telekom 1050 / +6082

200 100

Custom Department +6082 333 133

Trienekens (Rubbish Collection) +6082 273 000 Sarawak Energy +6082 333 111 Water Board +6082 240 371 Post Office +6082 244 141 Post Laju +6082 339 937

Airport / Airlines Tourism Board +6082 423 600

KLIA +603 8776 4383

KUCHING INT AIRPORT +6082 454 242

MAS Call Centre 1-300-88-3000 Airasia Call Centre +6082 283 222

Expat Directories

expatriate_handbook_july_2015.pdf

Documents

b e x p

xfab family

expat handbook x f

introduction x f

xfab manufactures wafers

n d b o o

cat city xfab sarawak

month expat handbook