Malaysia Money Matters

Was just surfing around, actually doing some research for work on some socio-economic matters when I stumbled across this interesting definition of what it means to be middle class - apart from white collar occupations and education levels, one quantitative way of defining one's inclusion of the middle class is this: After deducting your essential expenses such as food and shelter - if you have more than a third (33%) left over for discretionary purchases; then you can call yourself middle class. Hmm... of course, one can argue what is essential, like should transport be part of that (I vote yes, because you need to get to work otherwise no job, no money) and what part of that transport is essential and what is luxury (i.e. your choice of vehicle).. Very subjective, huh? Even if it does say 33% clearly... Do I have 33% discretionary income left over? Ermm.. didn't really count it up.. but I THINK I'm a little bit under probably because loan commitments are a bit hig

I had some friends over for lunch and one of them said he was interested to check out the Seasons Garden showroom later. So we toddled off to have a look around 4pm today. [Unfortunately, I didn't take a brochure because I was a bit dazed from cooking all morning and having a rather strong cocktail for lunch! hee hee] Anyway, the showroom has 3 layouts on show - as usual, loads of floor to ceiling mirrors to trick the eye into thinking it's a lot bigger. Not to mention, good looking finishes that would probably set you back 20% of the purchase price! i.e. yours ain't gonna look that good. Salient observations: Pro:  - high ceilings  - 3+1 rooms for the 850 sf and 900 sf units, the plus-one is a little study nook, which is ok  - pretty decent, functional layout  - has an interesting central garden feature: some greenery is always nice  - KLCC view for those who want it and unlikely to be blocked Con:  - small rooms (could be a pro, you don't need much furn