Bandar Seri Begawan was fourth highest ranked city in Asean after Singapore, Kuala Lumpur and Johor Bahru in the Mercer’s 2023 Quality of Living report published recently.
According to the report, Singapore was the highest ranked city in ASEAN at 29th out of 241 destinations. Kuala Lumpur and Johor Bahru in Malaysia ranked 89th and 107th place.
The Sultanate’s capital Bandar Seri Begawan is at 112th place, falling from its 106th ranking in 2019.
Meanwhile, Bangkok, Thailand ranked 124th, Manila, Philippines ranked 135th, Jakarta, Indoneisa 148th, Hanoi, Vietnam 167th, Vientiane, Laos 180th and Yangon, Myanmar in 226th.
Globally, Vienna ranked first in the report for providing a high quality of living for international employees in 2023.
The Mercer’s Quality of Living data assesses the practicalities of daily life for expatriate employees and their families in assignment locations worldwide.
According to the report, following years of unprecedented and unpredictable times, the factors that influence the world’s economy have a direct impact on the quality of living.
“The current global landscape is affected by geopolitical turmoil, natural disasters and other economic challenges, all of which have significant implications for cities and their ability to attract and retain talent,” said Mercer’s global head of mobility Yvonne Traber.
“Many employees are reconsidering their priorities and assessing the quality of life provided to them and their families in the places they live and work.” – Azlan Othman
