Lowyat.NET: Latest topics by Kakistok

Why I no see indian property agent

Kakistok — Mon, 31 Mar 2025 16:45:08 +0800

I'm alway on the look out for rental properties- moved 3 times last 6 years for job - never came across indian property agents. not that it matters but just curious, why eh?

I’m tired of overthinking, ready to take the leap

Kakistok — Wed, 26 Feb 2025 07:07:34 +0800

I’m an engineer with 14 years of experience, but I’m clueless about business. I want to start a service-based company in a field I care about (let’s just say it’s something I’ve personally needed and noticed is WAY too expensive). My goal is to make it affordable without cutting corners. I have somewhat created a business plan that includes salaries (jobstreet, LinkedIn), shop rental (propertyguru), utilities, 3 year plan with adding 2 more shops at end of year 3, number of client progression and occupancy rate, possible revenue streams based on my experience as a customer. My observation, the demand is quite high, I almost had to wait 5 months to get a slot, and as a returning customer need to wait for a month, the fact that they are packed despite only operating on weekdays from 9am-6pm is impressive.
Ive been to other shop that open weekends, always busy with customer coming in.

My situation:

Skills I have: Process improvement, automation, quality control, problem-solving.
Skills I don’t: Marketing, sales, hiring, or anything business-related.
Budget: RM 50k (my hard-earned savings).
Plan: Hire a technical expert to handle the “core service” while I focus on systems, efficiency and goals.

I need your help with:

Finding mentors: Where do I even look? No one in my circle runs a business.
First steps: Do I rent a shoplot first? Hire someone first? Panic first?
Hiring: How do I find/pay someone to lead the “technical” side, would they want to join me when I don’t know the industry (though I'm ready to learn)?

Why I’m posting:
I’m tired of overthinking and ready to take the leap. If you’ve started a business with no experience, please share:
What you wish you’d known.
Where to find mentorship.
How to avoid wasting money early on.

Thanks in advance

BB/Wifi in a shoplot for NGO

Kakistok — Thu, 20 Jun 2024 10:44:50 +0800

Currently, we are using a mobile hotspot to run the Zoom meeting, usually attended by 20+ people every session. It's actually a hybrid meeting, some will attend physically at the shop lot, and some attend online. The connection tends to be very poorat times and not clear for the online audience.

1 option we are considering now is to check with our neighbour if we can rent their wifi, because we only use it for 3 nights (3 hours each)

Is there any other option that are available from telco that may suit our needs?

Something cheap and portable. are those thumbdrive broadband still available?

New S70 FlagshipX or Used 2021Subaru XVGT-30k km?

Kakistok — Sun, 10 Mar 2024 21:19:08 +0800

Subaru from Sime Darby Auto selection. Still got factory warranty from Subaru till end of 2026.

I test driven brand new XV GT Eyesight and the used one - really enjoyed the ride and handling. Car looks rugged and athletic, interior though looks dated - but material seems high quality.
Not much different between the new and used, I would rather save rm50k and get the used one.

S70, cool interior, good ride as well but steering was too light for me. Exterior....meh. . Can't argue with the price but something was just missing from S70 for me to pull the trigger.

Your experience getting your dream car.

Kakistok — Sun, 25 Feb 2024 11:41:10 +0800

I'm eager to hear about your experiences getting your dream car! Was it worth the investment? I'm currently contemplating buying a Ford Raptor (a used one), but I'm torn between indulging in my dream car and opting for a more practical family friendly choice.

» Click to show Spoiler - click again to hide... «

Please share your thoughts and experiences - I'd love to hear your perspectives!

UPDATE 16/3/2024

After a few weeks of constant thinking about the next car and numerous test drives, I have finally booked one. Nope, it's not a Raptor. I've decided against it for now, due to practical and financial reasons.

Despite crazy amounts of test drives and visits to used car dealers, as well as checking out a few new ones, I've managed to narrow down my choices to one final option, which I've already booked. It's a 2019 Subaru XV Premium, priced at RM75k for 50k km, OTR of RM80k inc insurance and fees. The interior showed no signs of wear and tear, appearing to have been rarely used. The overall condition of the car was good, and it was one of the few that came with a Carlist inspection report (although I'm not entirely sure how reliable that is).

The stock tyres seemed to be around 60-70% used, suggesting that the mileage can't be too far off from what was stated. I believe this car meets my criteria, especially in terms of being fun to drive and practical. Initially, I had planned for it to be a weekend car, but my wife recently landed herself a job, so it's going to serve as my daily driver now. This is one of the reasons I had to forgo the Raptor.

Initially, I was torn between buying new or used, with the price difference being quite substantial at RM140k versus RM75k. It's almost half the price. Additionally, I discovered a Subaru specialist workshop very close to my house, so I'm planning to send the car there to uncover any hidden secrets it may have, I have set aside some cash for full service/repairs, accessories, new set of tyres - and alpine green wrap to make it look like the new Subaru Crosstek Wilderness XD

Thanks for all the feedback!

Apartments in Setia Tropika, JB

Kakistok — Sun, 10 Dec 2023 15:07:37 +0800

My question is, what happens to the property prices and rental rates of these existing 6-7-year-old apartments when these new apartments are complete? Also considering other factors such as Landed Property expansions, Covid Recovery, RTS etc
I'm not familiar with real estate market so I'm genuinely asking what would the future trend of prices. I would like to use this info to decide to buy the subsale unit for own stay and possibly renting it out in the future if I ever decide to move back to KL. I'm not desperate to buy a house as I've already owned one and fully paid in KL. But if the monthly installment+maintenance is going to be at least equal to or less than the rental then I see why not to buy one. More so, the units look well-renovated and fully furnished.

CONTEXT

I've relocated from KL to Setia Tropika about 1.5 years ago and been renting here since in one of the apartments called Sky Garden Residence ( another neighbouring apartment Sky Peak Residence)
I love this place, a lot of shops within walking distance, right at PLUS exit, and within a 15-20mins drive to all major towns in Johor Metro (Kulai, Senai, Skudai, Dato Onn, Austin, Tebrau, Southkey, JB)
Also relaxing 15-30mins drive to/from work in Senai.

2022 - I rented a 3+1, 1200 sqft unit, fully furnished, 2 car park unit for rm1300. for rental renewal, my landlord increased the rental to rm1700, He told me he had to because his instalment is very high (not my problem, lol). So I moved out to another unit in the same apartment.
2023 - 2+1, 1000 sqft, FF, 1 car park - rm1500.
2024 - looking at the rental rate for the similar unit I have now, it seems like nothing less than rm1800, so I kind of have these feeling my current landlord will up the rental rate.

I've been looking at the sub-sale prices and it seems to be going down since 2022. My first rented unit was going for RM480K, even when I moved out my landlord offered me a similar rate and then went down to RM450K when I ignored the 1st offer. And this was in April 2023.
Currently, I've been seeing these units going for RM420K. 2+1 units (similar to the one I'm renting now) are going for RM380K. Neighbouring apartment Sky Peak seeing a similar trend, though it's slightly more expensive than Sky Garden.

Rental rates are going up but subsale prices are going down? Why?[I]

Now, I just saw that SP Setia going to build another apartment right between Sky Garden and Sky Peak. I checked with them, the max price will be RM550K for 3-bedroom units 850sqft.
There is another apartment across the PLUS highway called D'Secret Garden 2 by KSL that is under construction, right next to 6-year-old D'Secret Garden 1.

Do I need music notes for my guitar progression?

Kakistok — Fri, 22 Sep 2023 10:52:12 +0800

Ive played guitar several years (19 to be exact) on and off, as a hobby. Anytime I come across a nice song, google for the chords, start practicing with basic chords and strumming I have. If it feels too good, I'll record it.
However there is always a frustration that I cant progress further with just my basic playing style - it sounds very one dimensional, I jump straight into strumming, maybe try a little plucking during the intro, I'll have no idea what to do in between verse. I know there are many resources available, but that is also a problem, there is just too many that its hard to stick to one. One resource just seems better then the other.

Hence, I've decided to take a guitar class instead. Took my first trial lesson in a music center. I told the tutor, a 50+yo classically trained musician (great guy) - I want to play my fav songs where I would be able to decode it myself into tabs and chords, play the song with more variations and techniques. What do I have to do?

He said I need to learn music notes by completting 3 beginner musics books which consist of music notes. Then I can be attend an exam (and pass) before progressing further to more advanced grades. Im really confused. I asked him, why do I need music notes, isnt tabs, chords and techniques are enough for me? I learned guitar music theory, I kinda know how the algo works, how chords are formed, major minor, scales and stuff - I dont remember going through musical notes when learning them. But he was adamant that I have to learn music notes, tabs are for kids he said.

And he even told me to hold the guitar in 45deg as how classical guitarist would do when he was giving me the lesson on how to read music notes and play that on the guitar. Yes, I have a classical guitar (i have acoustic too), I want to play chord+melody+rhythm sytle but I don't know if going through this guitar classical route is the most optimum for me to achieve how I want to play.
I was expecting the lesson to be structured around getting to know more chords, fingerstyles and aural lessons. I want to enjoy learning, not hate it.

I would like to get some feedback, is this the best way to progress? to learn music notes? I don't mind putting the work if it does help me progress but I just can't see how.

Cons of being debt-free?

Kakistok — Thu, 08 Jun 2023 22:37:53 +0800

There are many pros to debt-free (after paying off a house).

But what about cons?

lose motivation to learn, or grow in a career?

afraid of new financial commitments even if you can afford them?

[UPDATE]Opportunity to work in UK

Kakistok — Sat, 27 May 2023 00:37:22 +0800

UPDATE 10/6/2023

I have received the offer from the company. After discussions with them prior to the offer, they have pushed it from 55k to 58k per annum, they said I can ask the HR for further increment but they doubt can go any higher
They offering 3k for relocation (reimbursement) which I don't think is enough as a startup cost. visa and flight cost alone for me and my family is more than 3k.
Not considering things I need to terminate in MY, deposits for new home/car/furniture.

But it is what it is. Dilemma.

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Recall from previous post
https://forum.lowyat.net/topic/5377658

» Click to show Spoiler - click again to hide... «

I'll be attending an interview next week conducted by a UK-based company, the hiring manager is a good friend of mine (a European) we used to work and hang out in the US many years ago.
Recently he contacted me and asked if I'm willing to join his team in the UK, he seems to be very keen on bringing me there. We had an unofficial chat about the role before the actual interview.

Currently, I also work in a UK company based in Malaysia. Salary around rm11k. I have no significant commitments, house (in KL) and car paid off. Married with a child.
Though I own a house, I'm renting so I could stay nearby work. After minus all my critical expenses (rent,grocery,family,utilities) I can save about 3-4k a month ( I invest half of it).

Now about the UK work, I didn't really ask my friend about the salary just yet but from what I got to know from Glassdoor, for the same exact position the salary is about 5200 pounds a month.
After-tax, that's around 3.7k. Unit rental, to have the convenience I have now, i.e large house, close to work... I may need to fork out around 1.2-1.5k.
Now that leaves me about 2.5k for the rest. I may need a car. And for the rest of the expenses I might be down to 1-1.5k in savings --> which equates to rm6-7k.

With all the negative economic news surrounding the UK, I'm no expert but everything just not pointing in the right direction. Inflation, rental hikes, recession.
I don't know if this is something I should be pursuing. I love the work, it's something I'm good at and no doubt - the company is an 'elite' brand in its industry - like Rolex for watches. It would be great for the CV. But I don't know if it's worth the trouble of moving there, leaving the life I have here. Do I leave for that extra rm2-3k, leaving behind my friends and family - starting all over again? I worked in the US for 7 years before and came back to Malaysia 3 years ago thinking I may not get another oversea opportunity. But here we are... if this was just another company, I might have just said no thank you - but its like a dream company to work with because of its brand.

Something for me to think about but I would like to know your thoughts about the move or experience working in the UK, any piece of advice.
Thanks.

I had 2nd stage interview and later was told Im the 1st choice for the job. I was given an unofficial offer (later HR will call and provide the official offer) by the hiring manager, the offer was quite disappointing, to say the least.
If this was 10 years ago, I would have accepted it in a heartbeat. A dream company to work for, but now I'm not so sure anymore.
Glassdoor stated 5200pcm, but they offered only 4500pcm. Below I attached a calculation I did to compare if it even makes sense to take the offer, and what would be the ideal salary to go for (20-30% increase in purchasing power)

Thanks to those who have given feedback and advice, especially the ones living in the UK.

How much salary to demand?

Kakistok — Sat, 20 May 2023 18:29:19 +0800

Position: Head of Department in an engineering consultancy company
Total Reports: 22, 3 Team Leaders and 19 Engineers

Engineers' salary range from rm3k to 7k. Team Lead Probably 7k-10k

Core Role: Report directly to CEO, Maintain communication with clients, contact rep for engineering projects, make sure all projects are delivered as scheduled, manage technical resources i.e software, hardware, engineers

European company, European Ceo. Most projects are overseas projects, too expensive for local companies. They have in total of 140+ employees, 130 of them engineers.
Currently have a temporary HOD who's on ex-pat contract from HQ office (Europe), may extend if they cant find a candidate for replacement.

How much do you think is a fair salary demand for this role?

Nasi Lemak Jeep Merah

Kakistok — Tue, 16 May 2023 20:38:58 +0800

The best nasi lemak I've had. I've tried so many, nothing comes close.
Sekali beli mesti angkut 5-6 bungkus.
Basic nasi lemak bungkus. No extra side dishes. Sambal panas2 is served in front of you. Quick serving by the seller. Abang jeep merah legend di Seksyen 2 Wangsa Maju.

Sadly I heard he stopped doing business as his kids are all grown up and there is no one to help in the stall.

Orang wangsa maju forever support nasi lemak jeep merah!

Ford Ranger XLT Plus to Raptor Aesthetics

Kakistok — Tue, 16 May 2023 19:56:23 +0800

How much will it cost to upgrade XLT Plus aesthetics to look like Raptor.

Opportunity to work in UK

Kakistok — Sun, 07 May 2023 23:49:24 +0800

I'll be attending an interview next week conducted by a UK-based company, the hiring manager is a good friend of mine (a European) we used to work and hang out in the US many years ago.
Recently he contacted me and asked if I'm willing to join his team in the UK, he seems to be very keen on bringing me there. We had an unofficial chat about the role before the actual interview.

Currently, I also work in a UK company based in Malaysia. Salary around rm11k. I have no significant commitments, house (in KL) and car paid off. Married with a child.
Though I own a house, I'm renting so I could stay nearby work. After minus all my critical expenses (rent,grocery,family,utilities) I can save about 3-4k a month ( I invest half of it).

Now about the UK work, I didn't really ask my friend about the salary just yet but from what I got to know from Glassdoor, for the same exact position the salary is about 5200 pounds a month.
After-tax, that's around 3.7k. Unit rental, to have similar convenience that I have now, i.e large house, close to work... I may need to fork out around 1.2-1.5k.
Now that leaves me about 2.5k for the rest. I may need a car. And for the rest of the expenses I might be down to 1-1.5k in savings --> which equates to rm6-7k.

With all the negative economic news surrounding the UK, I'm no expert but everything just not pointing in the right direction. Inflation, rental hikes, recession.
I don't know if this is something I should be pursuing. I love the work, it's something I'm good at and no doubt - the company is an 'elite' brand in its industry - like Rolex for watches. It would be great for the CV. But I don't know if it's worth the trouble of moving there, leaving the life I have here. Do I leave for that extra rm2-3k, leaving behind my friends and family - starting all over again? I worked in the US for 7 years before and came back to Malaysia 3 years ago thinking I may not get another oversea opportunity. But here we are... if this was just another company, I might have just said no thank you - but its like a dream company to work with because of its brand.

Something for me to think about but I would like to know your thoughts about the move or experience working in the UK, any piece of advice.
Thanks.

UPDATE:
Just attended the interview, my friend was one of the interviewer but his colleague was whom I'd be reporting to if I'm selected. The interview went well, personally,I felt good, I think I scored well without my friends help.
I still haven't decided yet, just waiting for the offer before I make my decision. Thanks to all who have given feedback.

Paid rental booking but old tenant hasn't left

Kakistok — Sun, 30 Apr 2023 19:23:03 +0800

I need some advice,

I've already paid one month's deposit to rent a new unit starting May 1st. Now the agent is telling me the old tenant hasn't left yet, said will clear on 1st May (tomorrow) - but she doesn't sound very confident to me. Management won't allow any moving on 1st May (Labour Day). So I don't see how he is going to move out. And the agent also mentioned the landlord not going to do any cleaning or repair.
Man Im fuming. I find this quite irresponsible from both the agent and the landlord. Can I get my deposit back!?

English Skill or Confidence

Kakistok — Sat, 22 Apr 2023 16:25:50 +0800

I wrote about a thread on serious k/ about my dilemma on english
https://forum.lowyat.net/topic/5374078

Spoilers are some details about me shared in that thread above

Intro

» Click to show Spoiler - click again to hide... «

What Language I think in

» Click to show Spoiler - click again to hide... «

My english level

» Click to show Spoiler - click again to hide... «

So the dilemma here is if I should take english course to improve my english or to go for public speaking to improve my confidence.

The English Language Dilemma

Kakistok — Fri, 21 Apr 2023 15:34:14 +0800

Hello everyone, I would like to share my current predicament and seek advice on how to overcome it. My lack of fluency and low confidence in speaking have become major roadblocks in my career advancement. Technically, I'm one of the best at work, I've been awarded promotions due to my technical knowledge and contribution. However Im certain, if I had the communication skills to complement my technical skills, I would have climbed that career ladder much faster. I am currently one position away from getting into management, but my poor articulation and tendency to avoid giving presentations or participating in meetings that involve presenting have hindered my progress. This has also led to less visibility at work, and I understand that people with more visibility tend to move up the career ladder. I am aware that visibility at work is often tied to communication skills, and I would greatly appreciate any advice or tips on how to improve my English fluency and build my confidence in speaking up in the workplace. Thank you in advance for any help you can provide.

*I needed chatgpt to generate the paragraph above as I had a hard time putting my thoughts together.

Quality of Life or Home

Kakistok — Sat, 08 Apr 2023 19:35:03 +0800

I have recently received an invitation to explore an opportunity in the UK with an automotive company. While it is not yet confirmed, I feel the probability is high, as I was personally contacted by the hiring manager, who also happens to be one of my best friends from my time in the US.

I spent eight years in the US early in my career, following only three years in Malaysia after graduation. I returned for family reasons and never intended to stay in the US forever. While I miss my time in the US, I do not regret my decision to come back. I missed many important events and moments with my family and friends while I was in the US, and being back in Malaysia feels like home.

However, I acknowledge that the quality of life is not as high as it was in the US. I was earning USD $11,000 per month, whereas now I earn RM 11,000 per month, which is considered a top-of-the-line salary for my experience and field in Malaysia. The traffic in Senai Johor, where I work, is not too bad, and it only takes me 15 minutes to travel to and from work.

To put things into perspective, earning USD $11,000 per month in the city where I lived in the US (Novi, MI) is equivalent to earning RM 30,000-40,000 per month in KL. I never had to worry about money or commitments while I was in the US, and there was always at least $3,000 left over from my monthly income, regardless of how much I spent.

If I were to return overseas, I know that the quality of life would be better, as I experienced this during my time in the US. My wife and child would follow me there, but I would miss my family and friends, as I have a small, tight-knit circle. Additionally, I would be leaving a job that pays top dollar in Malaysia. As my network in Malaysia is limited, it may be difficult for me to find a job, especially as management positions tend to go to those with connections. Although there may be job openings, it is rare for an outside candidate to secure a management role. Therefore, there is a risk that I may not be able to find a job if I return to Malaysia.
Can't depend on my former companies in Malaysia, the top management guys just never leave.

Ultimately, the decision is mine, but I would appreciate hearing from others who have been in a similar situation. If anyone has any experience or advice to share, I am open to it.

Want to buy house but no credit history

Kakistok — Thu, 06 Apr 2023 20:08:59 +0800

I'm considering buying a house in the rm350k-450k range. A little background (financial) about myself

I have a house in KL (inherited) worth rm220-250k.
I have stock investments overseas of around rm150k (I used to work overseas for 8 years, invested when working there)
I have cash savings of around 40-50k

Currently, earn around rm11k but have no (never had) bank commitments - no credit card either. I still have my overseas credit card with the highest tier of credit score ( not sure if it's relevant here)

I used to hear banks prefer to give loans to those who can pay, the stronger the financials, the lower the risk lower the interest.

My objective is to reduce my monthly payments as much as possible. Currently renting in Kempas, JB (for work). I found the service apartments here at a reasonable price (in Kempas, not those danga bay - forest city projects)
My landlord wants to increase my rent by rm400 (from 1300 -> 1700). His excuse, he is on negative cash flow and MY-Singapore's border is now open.
So I thought why not just buy one, the units in these apartments are around the price I mentioned above. Even if I have to go back to KL one day, I can rent it out. Not looking to make a profit but at least those interest/maintenance if can be covered and a small% of the principle, just thinking long term.

So few questions.

1. though I have a house, am I still considered a first-time home buyer? or does it even matter or make any difference?
2. Having no credit history in Malaysia (other than PTPTN, but paid off), will this be a bottleneck for obtaining a lower interest rate or even a loan as a fact?
3. Considering the value of my assets is close to the possible loan amount, can it be used to obtain lower interest rates than what you normally would get?
4. In my current situation, would you have any other strategy to buy home/apply loan i.e get a credit card first?

Would like to know your thought and suggestions. Thank you.

UPDATE: Housewife friend got divorced

Kakistok — Tue, 21 Jun 2022 20:23:49 +0800

old post : https://forum.lowyat.net/topic/5279453

» Click to show Spoiler - click again to hide... «

Thanks to all that commented, i shared the post with her - she already found herself a job (hotel), and a place to stay - close to her kid's boarding school which is great

Housewife friend got divorced. Need job n accom

Kakistok — Wed, 08 Jun 2022 20:35:09 +0800

A friend of mine contacted me saying she got divorced 2 weeks ago. She is still living with the ex husband (rental house) but need to move out soon. Kid studying in asrama (doesnt know yet)
Asking for help what to do, no where to go, no parents (deceased) and siblings (only child) - for job and accommodations

She lost her job due to covid, then became a housewife - no idea why divorced, yet to tell me
im not sure what to say - my only thought is a woman hostel - googled but I cant find any

Hope she doesn't do anything stupid, i know she and her husband really struggled during the covid, lost job and own business not good.

any suggestions guys?