A Singaporean rider ditches high costs for a villa life in Johor Bahru—and it pays off.
A Singaporean Grab rider has turned heads online after revealing how he earns up to S$6,000 monthly while living in a luxurious RM1.4 million villa in Johor Bahru. For Afiq Zayany, the move across the Causeway wasn’t just about cheaper rent—it was a complete lifestyle upgrade driven by strategy, discipline, and an eye for value.
From Motorbike To Million-Ringgit Villa
Afiq’s life today is far from typical. He lives in a two-and-a-half-storey golf villa in JB—complete with a swimming pool, gym, and buggy service. Despite the grandeur, it costs him just S$550 monthly. In contrast, similar housing in Singapore could easily surpass S$3,000. “I was looking at a one-bedroom [in Singapore] without a toilet going for S$980,” he laughed.
This stark price difference pushed Afiq to trade in the Lion City’s dense cost of living for Malaysia’s more affordable comforts. His job? Grab rider. But as he puts it, it’s not just about riding—it’s about riding smart.
The 250-Kilometre Daily Grind
Afiq commutes roughly 250 km daily, often facing extreme weather and border congestion. Yet, he does it with a smile—because the math makes sense. Petrol in Singapore averages S$3.40 per litre, while in Malaysia, it’s just RM3.10 (S$0.93). That translates to daily savings of RM64, or RM1,280 monthly.
Afiq broke it down further: 8 litres of petrol a day in Singapore would cost him S$27.20. In JB? Just RM24.80. Multiply that by four weeks, and you’re looking at hundreds in fuel savings alone. “I just did the math and moved,” he shrugged.
High Income, Low Cost Of Living
Earning up to S$6,000 monthly from food and parcel deliveries, Afiq works just 6–7 hours a day. He averages S$200 daily, especially when weekly incentives kick in. He once earned S$1,283.20 in a single week—before bonuses.
His lifestyle reflects this smart hustle. From purchasing a used Toyota Alphard for RM30,000 (S$9,000) to enjoying affordable meals and essentials, he has cut major expenses without sacrificing quality. “Everything is cheaper here—utilities, cars, groceries. You don’t even need to worry about COE,” he said, referring to Singapore’s costly Certificate of Entitlement.
Discipline And Dreams Drive His Success
Despite the freedom, Afiq is realistic. He doesn’t sugarcoat the grind of Grab riding. “It’s tough. It wears your body down,” he admitted. Still, for someone saving to invest RM100,000, the job is a stepping stone—not the end game.
He emphasizes discipline and consistency as key. “You can be your own boss, yes. But you think being a boss is easy?” he challenged. His plan is to grow beyond Grab by venturing into content creation and business. With savings already in the six figures, he’s well on his way.
A Model For Regional Workers?
Afiq’s journey resonates strongly with Singaporeans and even Indonesians who commute for work or consider living cross-border for better savings. His story reveals how strategic thinking—not just hard work—can lead to unexpected success. For those willing to trade comfort zones for smarter decisions, Afiq proves that the road to wealth may literally start with a ride.
Afiq Zayany’s story is more than a viral headline—it’s a roadmap for those seeking financial freedom in a high-cost region. By leveraging lower living costs in Johor Bahru, maximizing earnings as a Grab rider, and maintaining strict financial discipline, Afiq turned a gig job into a platform for long-term success. His experience highlights how cross-border living, when done strategically, can offer a better quality of life and a path to real savings. For many Singaporeans and Indonesians facing rising expenses, Afiq’s journey serves as a powerful reminder: with focus and adaptability, it’s possible to live better—without earning millions.
Sources: The Independent Singapore (2025) , Mothership (2025)
Keywords: Grab Rider, Singaporean Worker, Johor Bahru Villa, Cost Saving, Petrol Price, Remote Work
