Name: Philip Du Plessis
Home city/country: South Africa
Industry/Job: Academic Director/ Education/Cambridge English For Life
Other countries you have lived in: Taiwan, South Korea
What brought you to Malaysia and how long have you been here?
I have been here 3.5 years working in the education industry teaching English as a second language to international students who want to study at Malaysian universities. I have also worked as an Academic Coordinator and have recently been appointed as Academic Director at Cambridge English For Life.
What do you like and dislike about living here?
Although it takes some getting used to, I like the laid-back attitude to life and the cosmopolitan mix of people and cultures. The diversity of the food is also a real plus factor. The dislikes are the monotony of the warm weather, especially during the dry season and the minority of taxi drivers who take immense pleasure in ripping people off.
What is your favourite holiday destination in Malaysia or in the region. Why?
Besides the splendid beaches and island getaways here, walking around Singapore’s never-ending shopping malls is a mindblowing experience.
Describe a memorable eating experience you have had here.
There is nothing I like more than eating a naan bread and tandoori chicken followed by a teh tarik at any local restaurant – simple, but delicious.
What advice would you give to a newly-arrived expat?
Forget about being Christopher Columbus and think that you are one of the first expats here. Enjoy and savour the ambience, culture, and everything new about the surroundings. I’m sure you came here to experience something new, so don’t get into the habit of always comparing it to what you left behind.
How long do you plan to stay in Malaysia? Where would you like to go next, and why?
My intention is to stay indefinitely as I feel that Malaysia provides my family and has all the comforts we need. Its centralised location makes it a perfect base from which to explore the rest of Asia.
Read more:
- An Expat from the UK Shares His Experience Living in Malaysia
- An English Expat in Malaysia Shares His Experience
- An American Shares Her Experience Living in Malaysia
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Source: The Expat Magazine November 2014
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