The first question Singaporeans ask wasn't the first question Malaysians asked
A real experience from a seminar in Malaysia that reveals why people in different countries think differently, and why understanding local laws matters.
LOWMAX BUSINESS
Back in 2009, I conducted one of my first seminars in Malaysia.
As I spoke to the audience and answered their questions, I noticed something interesting.
Nobody asked the question that almost every Singaporean would ask first.
"Is it freehold or leasehold?"
That surprised me.
After the seminar, I asked one of my close friends, who is a lawyer in Malaysia.
"Why aren't Malaysians as concerned about leasehold properties as Singaporeans are?"
His answer was simple.
"In Malaysia, leasehold land can often be renewed, subject to the relevant state authority and payment of a premium. That's why many Malaysians don't see leasehold the same way Singaporeans do."
That conversation stayed with me.
It reminded me that people judge things based on what they have grown up with.
In Singapore, many buyers pay close attention to whether a property is freehold or leasehold because of how our property market works.
In Malaysia, people may look at the same issue differently because the legal framework is different.
Fast forward to today, and you'll often see Malaysian property agents promoting "freehold" projects when marketing to Singaporeans.
They're not doing it by accident.
They understand what matters to their audience.
Before someone even considers the location, price or facilities, many Singaporeans want to know one thing first.
Is it freehold?
Over the years, I've realised this lesson goes beyond property.
Every country has its own laws.
The United States has both federal and state laws.
Malaysia also has federal laws and state laws, with some matters governed differently depending on the state.
If you're planning to work, invest or do business in another country, don't assume the rules are the same as those back home.
Take the time to understand how things work locally and, more importantly, where to find the right information.
Sometimes, the biggest misunderstanding isn't the law itself.
It's assuming every country thinks the same way we do.