Indian Remote Dev ($3.5k/month) Considering Penang vs Bali as a Base - LongTerm Feasibility?

Hey everyone,

I’m a 6+ years experienced remote software developer from India working remotely for an Australian company. Income is around $3.5k/month, stable and fully remote. I’d be relocating with my partner (no kids).

I’m not chasing citizenship right now, this is more about lifestyle and getting out of my comfort zone while I still have flexibility. I love coastal/beach environments and want to experience living outside India for a while instead of staying in one place long-term.

Right now I’m considering:

• Penang (Malaysia)

• Bali (Indonesia)

But I’m also open to other Southeast Asia cities if there’s something that fits better.

What I’m looking for:

Coastal or near-beach lifestyle

Reliable internet (full-time dev work)

Safe and clean environment

Sustainable for 6–12 months minimum

Reasonable visa process (not constant stress)

Ability to live on ~$1.5k–2k/month as a couple and still save.

Penang seems more structured and stable.

Bali seems more vibrant and nomad-heavy.

Would love insights on:

Which city in Southeast Asia actually works well beyond the honeymoon phase?

Is Penang realistic on ~MYR 6–7k/month for a couple?

How manageable are visas in Malaysia vs Indonesia?

Any underrated cities I should be looking at instead? (Thailand? Vietnam? etc.)

Hidden downsides that short-term visitors don’t see?