MM2H Programme: A Vital Economic Catalyst for Sabah’s Future
The Sabah Housing and Real Estate Developers Association (SHAREDA) has recently voiced their concerns regarding the Federal Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture’s (MOTAC) unexpected suspension of licenses for all Malaysia My Second Home (Sabah-MM2H) agents, a move that has notably impacted the launch of the Sabah-MM2H programme. According to SHAREDA’s president, Datuk Chua Soon Ping, the absence of MM2H agents severely hampers the effective marketing and implementation of the programme.
SHAREDA had previously proposed the Sabah-MM2H programme to the state government, highlighting its potential to significantly stimulate the market and generate considerable economic benefits for the region. This proposal came after detailed studies of similar successful schemes abroad and received approval from the Tourism Ministry, following a thorough evaluation process.
The sudden decision to suspend the programme’s launch, planned for June 1, came as an unexpected blow to the efforts invested by licensed agents in Sabah, who have been gearing up to welcome potential applicants under the new scheme. Chua highlighted the lack of explanation from MOTAC for this abrupt suspension, underscoring the crucial opportunity the Sabah-MM2H programme presents for addressing revenue imbalances and enhancing the state’s infrastructure.
“The new Sabah-MM2H policy is envisioned to be a powerful economic booster, accentuating Sabah’s appeal as a prime tourism destination and, in turn, reinforcing our economy,” Chua remarked. He emphasized the programme’s capacity to attract foreign investment and boost tourism, which are essential for Sabah’s competitive edge in the region.
Chua has made a fervent appeal to the federal government to reconsider their stance and facilitate the smooth rollout of the Sabah-MM2H programme. He stresses the importance of adhering to the Malaysia Agreement 1963 (MA63) and the Immigration Act 151, which confer special authority to the Chief Minister regarding foreign residency policies in the state.
In light of the suspension, SHAREDA has proposed innovative solutions to ensure the programme’s continuity, including the adoption of alternative application processes and leveraging local agents through its own network. This approach aims to sustain the momentum until a permanent solution is found, ensuring that Sabah remains a welcoming destination for potential investors and residents under the MM2H initiative.
The association has also offered its support to assume the role of agents, facilitating applicants and connecting with its network of agents overseas to bridge any gaps that may arise due to the current situation. Moreover, SHAREDA suggests the potential for an online application process to streamline and simplify application procedures.
In concluding remarks, Chua urges the federal government to acknowledge the significant role of the Sabah-MM2H programme in bolstering the state’s economic prospects and to work towards enabling its successful implementation.
Adding to the efforts to keep the MM2H programme alive in Sabah, Sabah Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Christina Liew announced that the ministry will continue with the MM2H programme in Sabah. Highlighting the appointment of qualified agents to assist with applications, Liew reassured that proceeding with the MM2H programme aligns with the law, underpinned by consultations with the Immigration Department, the police, and other relevant authorities.
