As 2022 continues to see an optimistic trend for the local property market, home-buyers are taking steps to resume their property hunt. The first thing they would do is look into locations that suit their needs and preferences. Each state in Malaysia offers different perks and qualities to consider for your lifestyle, work, retirement or investment. If you are looking to invest in property in one of the more popular states in Malaysia, read on to find out what they are, as voted by our local users.


1) 41.99% Voted for Selangor

Selangor is one of the more prosperous states in Malaysia that boasts great infrastructure, a high standard of living, and ample business opportunities. The massive demand for property in Selangor shows through its higher number of property transactions compared to other states. Selangor recorded 11,944 of total property transactions while Kuala Lumpur comes in second place with 11,129 (based on the 2021 Property Market Report).

It is a highly accessible state with most areas being covered by a network of major highways and efficient public transportations. Moreover, it offers a highly-desired urban lifestyle with a variety of famous malls, eateries, education and attractions. Some users said that they live here because of the many job opportunities. Petaling Jaya is one of its major cities where individuals and families can be well-connected to everything they need.

From bungalows and terraced houses to luxury condominiums and low-cost flats, you will definitely find something within your budget here.

See properties for sale in Selangor.


2) 35.03% Voted for Kuala Lumpur

Kuala Lumpur (KL) is the capital city of Malaysia that serves as a global transit hub where many people stop by. It is one of the top cities in the world for expatriates to work abroad in 2021, according to 12,000 survey respondents (InterNations, 2021). Here you can find a high quality life with ample business opportunities and indulgent leisure hotspots. Most users who voted for KL said that their workplaces are in this state, which explains why they’d prefer to live here.

Greater Kuala Lumpur is a coveted address by home-buyers from all over the world. It is a regional hub where many international investors base their businesses. The steady demand from expat tenants and home-buyers is why many people seek to benefit from investing in this area.

The bustling metropolis gives the ultimate city experience that is desired by many. It is surrounded by many shopping malls, famous eateries, attractions, and an exhilarating nightlife.

As properties in this exclusive address are highly sought after by both investors and home-buyers, most developments here are high-end and luxurious.

See properties for sale in Kuala Lumpur.


3) 9.23% Voted for Johor

Johor is a state that offers a combination of modern and relaxed lifestyle near the coast. Here you can find vibrant streets, dazzling malls, and friendly people everywhere. Moreover, it shares borders with Singapore, giving this state many advantages, especially in its property market.

Singaporean home-buyers often seek out property investments in Johor because the exchange rate is favourable to them and their own country’s property prices are much higher in comparison. This means that Malaysian home-buyers can benefit from reselling properties here due to the high demand of foreign buyers from the neighbouring country.

Iskandar Malaysia is a major development zone that is designed to accelerate Johor’s growth and boost the local economy. It is formed by major cities such as Johor Bahru, Iskandar Puteri, Pasir Gudang. The mega project is receiving many foreign investments that would provide more job opportunities for the people here (Bernama, 2022).

Residential developments that are popular here include luxurious condominiums, serviced apartments, semi-detached houses, bungalows, and terraces.

See properties for sale in Johor.


4) 5.65% Voted for Penang

Penang is filled with interactive street art depicting life on the island and colonial architecture embodying its history. It is known as a beautiful state that is rich with heritage and culture. Hailed as a food paradise by locals and also ‘The World's Top 10 Cities For Street Food’ (Forbes, 2012). The state was also ranked as one of the ‘15 Best Islands in the World to Retire In’ by International Living (2021). Penang offers a peaceful and cosy lifestyle near tranquil beaches and local delicacies. Some users from our survey that ran last month claimed that this state has ‘the best lifestyle and food’. Here you can find the best steaming Char Koay Teow (stir-fried rice noodles) and juicy Oh Chien (fried oyster-filled omelette).

The state has had a constant growth in property transactions even throughout the MCO period from 2020 to 2021 (Rajasurian, 2022). This is thanks to the promising property market in this well-developed and highly-urbanised state. Many home-buyers desire this location for property investment. However, property prices here are among the highest in Malaysia due to land scarcity.

Penang is also known for its hotels, healthcare institutions, international schools and flourishing expat scene. George Town, its capital city, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is a thriving tourist site with many gorgeous colonial buildings.

See properties for sale in Penang.


5) 5.65% Voted for Negeri Sembilan

Sharing the same number of votes as Penang is Negeri Sembilan. This state is a prime choice for property investment because of its strategic location. It is surrounded by major highways and has a tourist spot that is famous for its beaches in Port Dickson. Here you can find the closest beach resorts to Kuala Lumpur.

The cost of living in Seremban and Nilai is generally lower than Klang Valley or KL city. Which explains why many home-buyers are interested in property here. Seremban 2 is becoming a popular choice among home-buyers because of its lower property prices. It also provides the same amenities as a big city, perfect for those who desire to live in the outskirts.

Negeri Sembilan is peaceful and surrounded by gorgeous greenery. Many residents here get to enjoy many amenities that are within their vicinity including shopping malls, healthcare, supermarkets, schools and recreational parks. It is a great place for people who want to have good access to KL while enjoying a quiet life away from the bustling city.

Residential properties in demand here include terraced houses, bungalows, semi-detached houses, condominiums and apartments.

See properties for sale in Negeri Sembilan.


Has this list helped you in your search for the best state to invest in? Let us know in the comments below.

Our new Neighbourhoods feature has everything you need to complete your property research before making that big decision. Visit https://www.propsocial.my/neighbourhoods now and find a home you will love.



(Written by Michelle Yoon, 22nd September 2022)