March 14, 2026 | 01:56 pm
TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Malaysia has been ranked as the third safest retirement destination in the world by International Living, according to its latest report on global retirement safety. Portugal and Ireland secured the first and second positions, respectively, while Vietnam ranked ninth.
The list of safest retirement destinations considers factors such as crime, political stability, and security across 24 countries worldwide. Rankings were compiled using the Global Peace Index and qualitative insights from expatriates and local communities.
Despite being third, Malaysia is considered one of the safest havens for retirees in Asia.
Safest Retirement Destination in Asia
According to the 2025 Global Peace Index, Malaysia ranks 13th globally, following Japan, the Czech Republic, and Finland.
The Asia-Pacific region is noted as the second most peaceful region in the world after Western and Central Europe.
Keith Hockton, a contributor to International Living, shared his experience of living in Malaysia, highlighting the security integrated into everyday life and the friendliness of its inhabitants. He noted that people often leave their wallets or phones on café tables without concern—a trust rarely seen today.
“It’s not about alarms or locked gates—it’s about how neighbors smile as you pass, how laughter floats from late-night food stalls, and how people look out for one another,” Hockton said.
Hockton emphasized that security contributes to overall well-being, evident in bustling night parks, well-marked pedestrian crossings, and emerging bicycle lanes.
“There’s also a shift toward safety as well-being. Parks are full in the evenings. Cycling lanes have appeared. Crosswalks are better marked. People feel safe not just physically, but emotionally,” he added in Travel+Leisure.
However, crime still exists. The Malaysian Department of Statistics recorded a crime index of 11.1 percent in 2024, up from the previous year. Most cases involved property crimes and drug-related offenses, while the murder rate has decreased.
Security Amidst Vietnam’s Bustling Environment
Vietnam, ranked 38th in the Global Peace Index, is also considered a safe destination. Wendy Justice, another International Living contributor who has lived in Vietnam for 20 years, said she rarely felt unsafe, even when walking alone in Hanoi at different times of the day.
“People are generally honest, violent crimes are nearly non-existent, and even petty theft is rare,” Justice said.
Pickpocketing is uncommon in Hanoi but occurs occasionally in Ho Chi Minh City. Justice advised tourists to remain aware of their surroundings and take basic precautions.
She also noted potential risks from taxi drivers or street vendors, recommending agreeing on prices beforehand. For city travel, she suggests using online transportation applications.
Vietnam has recently strengthened regulations on drunk driving across cars, motorbikes, and bicycles. Many drinking establishments now offer ride-home services, reducing incidents of intoxicated driving and making streets safer for residents and tourists alike.
Read: Countries with the Highest Cost of Living Index 2026
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