Expert Info
on 17 May 2011
Just wondering about the standard of safety in Kuala Lumpur. I'm coming from Johannesburg, South Africa so I can't imagine I'd need to prepare for a higher level of crime than what I'm exposed to at the moment, but still, an indication of what precautions I should take would be much appreciated!
I'm a US expat living in Kuala Lumpur, and even coming from a small southern town in the States, I can say that KL is one of the safest places I've ever lived. There does always seem to be stories floating about recounting the odd motorbike thief who's snatched a purse, but sometimes these feel more like urban legends than reality. That said, most expats here tend to live in apartment buildings with 24-hour security, and most of the apartment buildings are set in wealthy neighourhoods.
Needless to say, if the things I've heard about Johannesburg are true, I think you'll find safety in Kuala Lumpur one of the most minute concerns.