I think I have been to many parts of Malaysia actually, and most places are pretty affordable as long as you don't go there by plane. Here are 3 that I will visit over and over again, and you will definitely spend within your budget. Bookmark this post as ideas for your long weekends maybe?
Johor Bahru
Ah this is one bus ride away, you can even go there for a few hours only if your don't have much time.. But that is if you avoid the peak hours if not there will be a major jam! If you have time to spare, you can even stay for a couple of days over there! It'd be cheaper than a staycation in Singapore definitely, with the crazy 1 is to 3 exchange rate right now! City Square and KSL mall should be able to keep you people busy for a day or two in JB, and I know of people who likes to get groceries and furnitures from JB too. New home owners please take note! ;)
Kuala Lumpur
I like to go to KL for a 4D3N or 3D2N shopping and eating trip! Being in KL feels more like a holiday than in JB, but the exchange rate is as good. The food is similar to Singapore's, but much cheaper; shopping isn't fantastic but you can get some cheap clothings if you source well. I particularly like booking my hotel and coach ride with grassland express, because my coach ride is practically free as long as I book my room through them, and the room booking price is fairly reasonable from my past 3 experiences with them. However, that is if you don't mind the 6 hours coach ride.. If you get lost easily and just wanna shop, I suggest staying in the Bukit Bintang area because there are many malls in that area all withing walking distance. If not, you may explore places such as Sunway Lagoon and the Petronas Towers (twin tower) too~
Genting
If you like somewhere cooler and somewhere less similar to Singapore, try Genting! You'll have to take a coach (and maybe a cable car) to go up to the top of the hill / mountain. The main attractions there would be the casino, theme park as well as the farms, such as strawberry farm and mushroom farm. The things there might be slightly pricey as most of the people there are tourists. There is also a bit of shopping over there and a snow world which the kids will love. I have yet to check out the casino, I guess I should go there in my next trip right? Since I'm already long over the age limit!!
What are your favourite budget getaways? Share with me! :)