Malaysia tops global ranking for digital nomads and retirees
Relocation index rates it best in world for remote workers, citing low costs and tax treatment while flagging safety concerns
KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia (MNTV) — Malaysia has been named the world’s best destination for digital nomads and for retirees in a global relocation index, scoring highly on affordability and favorable treatment of foreign income, The Star reported.
The Rumavi Global Relocation Index 2026, which assessed 192 countries and territories on connectivity, affordability, lifestyle, safety, and visa access, gave Malaysia 79.1 out of 100 for digital nomads — ahead of Portugal, Thailand, and Georgia — and ranked it first for retirees at 75.8.
It placed third overall, behind Estonia and Singapore. Affordability was a decisive factor, the index said, with costlier countries pushed down as location-independent earners choose destinations on cost.
The index flagged concerns over rule of law and street safety, particularly for entrepreneurs weighing Malaysia for business.
Rumavi describes itself as an independent Southeast Asian advisory platform for people relocating abroad.
An earlier release of the same index, reported separately, had ranked Malaysia first for retirees globally.
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