In a bid to entice more foreigners to take up residence in Malaysia, the Malaysian government made changes to the Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) Programme. The changes, effective from February 2009, should attract more working expatriates and retired foreigners to live, work and play in Malaysia.

iProperty.com speaks to Jaslyn Sim, managing director of Richmond Consultant (MM2H) Sdn Bhd, an ‘official sponsor’ appointed by the Ministry of Tourism Malaysia for the MM2H Programme.

Q: How long has your company been in business as MM2H agents?

A: Five years, we have been acting with Immigration Department even before Ministry of Tourism started MM2H One Stop Center in April 2006.

Q: Do the new policies have any effect on agents?

A: Yes, especially the allowance of MM2H holders above 50 years old to work part time and all MM2H holders to be actively involved in business. This will certainly attract more applicants who are still active in business and those who would like to contribute their expertise and skill to our country, especially those with specialised knowledge in areas where Malaysians lack knowledge such as Biotech, Science, Health and others.      

Q: Essentially, what is the role of MM2H agents?

A: We provide professional, efficient and hassle free services to assist applicants in obtaining the program and most importantly, provide follow-up services and as “One Stop Center” in assisting them and their family to settle well and enjoy Malaysia as their second home.

Q: Do you travel overseas to source clients?

A: Yes, besides joining the Tourism Malaysia Promotion trip, we very often travel at our own initiative and own costs to promote this program in Europe, Scandinavian countries, Korea, China and Japan. 

Q: Which country is your biggest market for MM2H participants?

A: Our biggest market is the European market, especially United Kingdom. Nevertheless, we also have clients from Switzerland, Sweden, Ireland, Germany, USA, Canada, Australia, Japan, Korea, Taiwan, Singapore, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Pakistan, China, Vietnam and India who are participating in this wonderful programme.

Q: Will there be any changes to the time for processing MM2H applications?

A: The program can be approved between one to two months from the date of submission of complete documents.  

Q: How do you compare the Malaysian retirement market to other countries?

A: Malaysia is very good as a second home for many reasons. Malaysia is situated in the heart of Southeast Asia and reflects the very essence of Asia. It is a politically stable country and is blessed with natural beauty and supported by excellent infrastructure. Warm weather and friendly people who commonly speak English welcome foreign visitors who will be impressed by the diverse cultures.

High standard of living at low cost has made Malaysia a top choice for a relaxing and easy lifestyle. Medical centers and private clinics with 24-hour emergency services are available for your medical needs. There are international schools, private colleges and universities located at all major cities at reasonable costs. An added advantage is the great availability of good homes at much lower prices as compared with other countries in the region. 

We need to create strong awareness for Malaysia to be a top listing country for second homes with aggressive promotions focusing on MM2H programme with targeted segments and markets.

New MM2H incentives in a nutshell

According to the Immigration Circular No. 6 of 2009, highlights of the new improvements made to the MM2H programme include: