KUALA LUMPUR - The IU Consulting Group, a tax accounting firm in Japan, released its latest analysis on February 3, based on overseas relocation consultations it received between July and December 2025.

The analysis shows that interest in overseas relocation driven by education and asset protection is rising, particularly among younger generations. 

Within Asia, Malaysia, especially Kuala Lumpur, has emerged as a realistic and increasingly attractive option, the firm found.

The number of relocation consultations increased approximately 3.3 times over a three-month period. 

While overseas relocation had traditionally been associated with retirement and second life planning, the firm noted a recent surge in demand from upper middle income individuals in their 30s and 40s seeking a more proactive, globally oriented lifestyle. 

These younger groups are increasingly prioritizing next-generation education environments and international exposure.

Consultations, once largely limited to high-net-worth individuals, have now expanded to include a broader and younger demographic.

Although around 80% of respondents have yet to decide on a destination country, interest in Malaysia has been steadily growing among those considering their options.

Singapore has long been regarded as the leading relocation destination in Asia. 

However, rising living costs and increasingly stringent visa requirements are becoming major challenges.

By contrast, Malaysia is being evaluated as a strategic relocation choice that balances education, asset management, and daily living costs. 

The country is increasingly seen as a cost-effective yet high-quality alternative, offering a more realistic option for families and individuals alike.

Consultation data also indicate a marked rise in interest in education environments spanning from early childhood through long-term academic pathways. 

Keywords such as international schools and education driven migration appeared frequently, reflecting a desire among parents to expose their children to English-language education and multicultural environments from an early age.

At the same time, consideration of asset protection strategies, including income, inheritance, and gift tax planning, has also increased.

Compared with Singapore, where the cost of living and visa hurdles are growing concerns, Malaysia is attracting attention as a more balanced option in terms of education quality, living costs, and tax systems, according to the analysis.