Name: Fernanda Horta Ribeiro Bhutani
Home Country: Brazil
Industry/Job: Freelance Photographer
Marital Status: Married, no kids
What brought you to Malaysia and how long have you been here?
Malaysia and I have an on-off relationship. I was first here in 2002 as part of the Rotary exchange program, then again in 2007 when I got married to my Malaysian husband. I returned in 2010 for 2 years and have been back since December 2013. This time we see Malaysia as a more long-term option, as I work as a freelance photographer here while my husband is in business.
What do you like and dislike about living here?
As any expat would say, food food and food! To be able to step out of your house at midnight and have not just one place open, but variety of cuisines available, is amazing. The friendly and relaxed attitude of the people here is also a major factor. I don’t however, like the hot and humid temperatures all year round. Even though I am from Brazil, we do get four seasons to enjoy. My other pet peeve is the crazy drivers here!
Name three typical weekend activities that you enjoy
When I am not working on photo shoots (mostly over the weekends), I take the opportunity to hang out with my husband and our friends, be it going for dinners (we are big foodies) or going to Lake Gardens or even just entertaining people at home.
What is your favourite holiday destination in Malaysia or in the region. Why?
I love Southeast Asia, from Bali to Singapore, but two places I love are Sabah and Sarawak. From its raw, unadulterated natural beauty, to the feeling of being in a smaller town (I myself come from a small town in Brazil). I loved meeting the lovely people there.
Describe a memorable eating experience you have had here.
In 2002, as an exchange student, I braved many eating experiences from exotic seafood to sampling wild boar meat. But the craziest things I ate were bee larvae and fried grasshoppers.
What do you miss about your home country?
I miss the bakery close to home with its variety of cheeses and breads. Of course I miss my mother’s and grandmother’s cooking.
What advice would you give to a newly arrived expat?
I would say to really mingle with as manypeople as you can and also make friends with expats who have been here longer than you have. They often guide you with the simplest of tasks, like going to the hair salon or finding a good supermarket nearby.
How long do you plan to stay in Malaysia? Where would you like to go next, and why?
We are looking forward to being here for at least 5 to 10 years hopefully. From here, I would like to head back to Brazil or perhaps even Australia.
Is Malaysia a good place in which to work and do business? Why?
I would say it comes with its challenges, like all places do. While people in general appreciate good photography, sometimes due to the weather conditions and heat, it is difficult to get good outdoor photos. Aside from that, I would say it is fun and exciting working in Malaysia.
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Love it !!