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Malaysia trip, consumerism, and geared ETFs

May 18, 2025

482Years of Freedom Created

The latest Strong Money Adventure took us to Malaysia.

Following our Thailand trip in December (which you can read about here), we were keen to explore another nearby country with great food, warm weather, and good value.

We spent roughly two weeks in Malaysia – about 5 days in Kuala Lumpur, 4 days in Penang, and 4 days in Langkawi.

In this article, I’ll share what the trip was like, how much things cost, what we loved (and didn’t), and how Malaysia stacks up against Thailand from a travel and lifestyle point of view.

Read: Our Malaysia Trip – The Adventure Continues


STRONG MONEY PODCAST

In the latest episode, we explore the evolution of consumerism, and how it’s changed and adapted over time.

I explain why it keeps people stuck, constantly searching for satisfaction and happiness in the wrong places, and I share how to break free from this cycle so you can fast-track your path to wealth and freedom.

Listen here on Spotify, Apple, or on the website.

podcast cover (1)



AUSSIE FIRE PODCAST

I almost never see new investments I’m actually interested in.

The new breed of Geared ETFs from Betashares are a rare example.

In the latest Aussie FIRE pod, we chat about these new ETFs, and how they work. We also discuss other ways to use leverage with shares like NAB Equity Builder and margin loans.

Listen now on 
Spotify or Apple.

We previously did an episode about using home equity to invest in shares which you can catch here if you missed it: Spotify, Apple.​

aussie fire


​​THOUGHTS OF THE WEEK​

People try to sell you a dream of fancy shit and status. Real wealth is waking up when you want and choosing exactly how you spend your time. Status might impress people. Freedom changes your life.


It’s impossible to create wealth and freedom if you aren’t willing to stray from the herd. And it’s impossible to stay tucked safely in the herd without remaining a sheep.


You rent your life to a company 40 hours a week for 40 years. Then you get to live a little on weekends. Much of that is spent catchup up on tasks and preparing for the following week (washing, groceries, cleaning, meal prep, admin). Is that really the life you want?


MEETUP REMINDER

Quick reminder about the upcoming Perth meetup:

Date – 24th May
Time – 9am
Place – Koorak Cafe Kings Park

If the weather’s good, we’ll meet outside the cafe on the big open grass area. If it’s raining, we’ll grab a section of tables inside.

Come say hello and chat with like-minded people on the same path as you. Look forward to seeing you there!


READER STORIES

I’m looking for a few 2-3 sentence summaries on the tangible impact that FI has had on your life for my upcoming book.

I want to hear specifically from those of you who have now pivoted away from full-time work and are feeling the benefits.

The goal is to inspire readers through brief glimpses into other people’s stories to make it feel more real.

If you fit that bill, simply reply to this email with your 2-3 sentence summary (I’ll keep it anonymous of course). Thanks in advance!

My book Strong Money Australia has now sold over 35,000 copies! 🔥

Available in paper, audio and ebook. Find out more here.

Audiobook on

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Paperback & Kindle

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