Japanese people living in condominiums in Malaysia always run into obstacles: ants and insects. ``Japanese common sense does not apply in Malaysia'' - this is the common understanding of all residents.

In this article, we have summarized the real voices of residents, focusing on the wisdom of living in a condo, as well as things such as Grab fees and ``Malaysia's reality''.

---

🐜 Ant control — don't let your guard down even on the 30th floor!

Shocking fact: There are ants even on high floors

In Malaysian condos, there are ants whether it's on the 30th or 40th floor. This is the first culture shock for Japanese people.

“If I leave sweets in the kitchen without sealing them up, they will be attacked by ants a few hours later.” (Review from a resident on the 30th floor)

“I have given up on the fact that it may be impossible to feel completely refreshed.” (Review from a resident)

"It's easier to pretend that there's nothing we can do about ants. As long as we don't leave the food outside, we'll be fine." (Review from a resident)

Complete list of ant control measures

Measures against piping gaps — also effective against cockroaches

The entry route for not only ants but also cockroaches is piping gaps. The most effective method is to physically fill it with paper clay.

---

🪲 Other insect control measures

Shibanmushi (food pest)

パスタ、小麦粉、パン粉など粉類に発生する小さな茶色の甲虫。

Igabug (clothing pest)

• ●Sometimes it sticks to your clothes from outside.
• ●small insects that eat clothes
• ●Prevent by regular closet cleaning

---

🚗 How Grab fares work

Grab is the basic way to get around in Malaysia. However, prices vary widely depending on supply and demand.

Rate fluctuation pattern

“There is quite a difference in prices depending on supply and demand.” (Reviews from residents)

“Flight tickets to Malaysia are extremely expensive during this period (CNY), so I do not recommend traveling during this period lol” (Review from a resident)

Grab's saving techniques

• ●✅ Avoid rush hours (7:30-9:30, 17:00-19:30)
• ●✅ On rainy days, the price will be lower if you wait a little longer.
• ●✅ Cheaper than a taxi if multiple people ride together
• ●✅ Avoid credit card fees by pre-charging your GrabPay balance

---

🏙️ Life in Malaysia is “as it is”

Residents talk about the gap with Japan

"When you come to Malaysia, your default values will change! It's a tropical country, so there are many things that are different from Japan." (Review from a resident)

"Japan is so beautiful and orderly. I think it's unique in the world." (Review from a resident)

---

🎊 Multicultural Events in Malaysia

You can enjoy 3 New Years in Malaysia.

Chinese New Year (around January to February)

• ●The whole city is gorgeous with red decorations
• ●Eating Yusan (raw fish) with family
• ●Passing ang pao (red bao = new year's gift) to each other
• ●Some people set off fireworks in front of their houses

“In Malaysia, people usually set off fireworks in front of their houses without getting permission, haha.” (Review from a resident)

Ramadan & Hari Raya (changes every year)

• ●Ramadan Bazaar to break the fast is very popular
• ●Iftar food and sweets stalls will be on the streets.
• ●Service at Malay restaurants decreases during Ramadan
• ●Hari Raya Aidilfitri is a long holiday

“From today until Hari Raya, for about a month, iftar food and sweets stalls will be set up on the streets all over the place, so it’s fun.” (Review from a resident)

Deepavali (around October-November)

• ●Hindu Festival of Lights
• ●Little India is especially gorgeous

---

🏢 LaLaport BBCC — A place where you can enjoy the Japanese atmosphere

If you miss Japan, go to LaLaport BBCC (Bukit Bintang City Center).

“There are restaurants and shops run by Japanese companies, so you can really enjoy shopping and cafes!” (Review from a resident)

---

Summary

Golden rules of condo living

• ●✅ Sealed storage of food from the first day
• ●✅ Fill the gaps in the piping with paper clay
• ●✅ Store all flours in the refrigerator
• ●✅ Reduce ant invasion with Serai Wangi
• ●✅ Grab prices vary depending on the time of day. with plenty of time to spare

Mindset

• ●✅ Give up that ants will come
• ●✅ Be the first to accept that Japanese common sense does not apply
• ●✅ Have the luxury of enjoying multiculturalism
• ●✅ Rely on local wisdom (Serai Wangi etc.)

*This article contains word-of-mouth information from the LINE community. Please read this as personal impressions and experiences.

Last updated: February 2026