JOHOR BARU: The rapid development in the state capital has made it one of the more popular cities for foreigners taking part in the Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) programme.
State Tourism, Trade and Consumerism Committee chairman Datuk Tee Siew Kiong said tourism databases had shown this, adding that it was in line with the findings of the Mercer Quality of Living Survey.
The survey, last year, had named Johor Baru the third most liveable city in Southeast Asia, after Singapore and Kuala Lumpur.
“There is a positive response from foreigners who choose to live in Johor Baru. The (MM2H) database shows that 40 per cent of the total of 34,531 participants in the programme since 2002 are living in Johor Baru.
“That means that about 14,000 participants have made Johor Baru their second home and I am so proud of this achievement,” Tee told reporters after launching an event to celebrate participants of the MM2H programme in Johor.
He said, the appeal of Johor Baru included not just the city’s rapid development, but the wide choice of international educational institutions and the country’s overall stable economy.
“The many lifestyle attractions in Johor Baru lure foreigners to take part in the MM2H programme, too,” he said.
Most of the MM2H participants at the event were retired expatriates who have been living in Johor Baru for the past 15 years.
Brian Gale, 70, said he moved to Kangkar Pulai, Skudai, from the United Kingdom three years ago with his wife Laura.
He said he made a good decision as he was able to afford a good house which was close to natural attractions.
“I could never afford to buy such a home back in London. Here, it is different. All my children have grown up and they supported our decision to live here,” said the retired civil aviation officer.
Another expatriate, Aida Masao, 59, said he has been living in Taman Panderosa for the past four years with his family and liked the experience so far.
“The local community here is helpful and kind to us. It feels like back home in Japan. Also, the Senai International Airport has many flights to other Asian countries, which makes it easier for me to travel around the region,” he said.