Tiong wants action against MM2H participants abusing programme

Tourism minister Tiong King Sing has urged authorities to take action against Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) participants who misuse the program, including those running businesses without proper authorization. He emphasized the need for the immigration department and other agencies to intensify the monitoring of MM2H holders and their activities.

In a Facebook post, Tiong called for appropriate measures to ensure compliance with MM2H regulations and curb any abuse of the program. He specifically pointed out the issue of MM2H participants who are barred from working due to their category but continue to engage in commercial activities.

The current MM2H rules permit only platinum category holders to work, invest, or conduct business in Malaysia. Participants in gold, silver, and special economic or financial zone categories must obtain the necessary permits if they wish to work or engage in business operations. Tiong chaired a meeting on MM2H today, during which discussions focused on strengthening security checks on applications and addressing delays in processing times.

All MM2H applications undergo a police security screening, and applicants aged 18 and above must submit a certificate of good conduct or its equivalent.

In addition to these measures, last year, the tourism ministry announced that police could conduct random interviews with prospective MM2H applicants as part of an enhanced security protocol. The MM2H program was launched in 2002 to allow foreigners to reside in Malaysia on a long-term basis, but it was suspended in 2020 for a review before being reinstated with revised conditions.

The program has since been updated and now offers four main categories: platinum (valid for 20 years), gold (15 years), silver (5 years), and special economic and financial zone (10 years). Prospective participants are also required to deposit funds and purchase property, with the required amounts varying based on the category they choose.

The Malaysian government has highlighted that the MM2H program aims to attract foreigners who will contribute to the country through spending and investment while residing in Malaysia.