Penang tops global ranking for budget-friendly digital nomad living

GEORGE TOWN: Penang has been ranked the world's most budget-friendly city for digital nomads in a new international study covering 26 cities across 15 countries.

The study, conducted by digital marketing agency Click Intelligence and featured in Moneywise in October, placed Penang first with an overall score of 0.78.

Busan in South Korea came second, followed by Kuala Lumpur in third place. Fukuoka and Seoul, also in South Korea, took fourth and fifth positions respectively.

The remaining cities in the top 10 were Tartu in Estonia, Chiang Mai in Thailand, Valencia in Spain, Osaka in Japan and Brno in the Czech Republic.

A digital nomad is a location-independent professional who uses the internet and digital technology to work remotely while travelling.

The study estimated Penang's monthly living cost, including rent, at €850 (about RM3,860). It highlighted the city's affordability, internet connectivity, safety and access to Malaysia's DE Rantau Nomad Pass.

The DE Rantau Nomad Pass is a programme for eligible remote workers, allowing them to live in Malaysia for 12 months, with an option to renew.

Click Intelligence co-founder and director James Owen said language is rarely a barrier, as English is widely spoken across the island.

He also said Malaysia is generally considered a safe place to live.

Penang Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Wong Hon Wai said the international recognition reflected the state's growing appeal as a destination for digital nomads and international visitors.

"Penang offers more than affordable living.

"Our Unesco World Heritage status, rich multicultural heritage, world-famous food, vibrant arts and creative scene, as well as beautiful natural attractions, make the state an attractive place to live, work and explore," he said.

Wong said the recognition also reinforced the state's efforts to strengthen its tourism industry and creative economy.

"Penang has the lifestyle, culture and opportunities that international visitors and digital nomads are looking for," he added.