PUTRAJAYA: Over 40,000 applications from 130 countries for Malaysia My Second Home programme had been approved since its inception in 2002.
Tourism and Culture Ministry secretary general Datuk Rashidi Hasbullah said of the total, applicants from China contributed the highest number with 11,820 applications, followed by Japan (4,618) and Bangladesh (4,018).
He said the applications had doubled compared to last year, with increase in applications from Korea Selatan, Australia and the United States was also recorded.
“The MM2H programme had spurred Malaysia in the global ranking and is now fifth Best Retirement Destination in the World for 2018 after Costa Rica, Mexico, Panama and Ecuador.
“Apart from that, Japan Longstay Foundation had been nominating Malaysia as its choice of destination and long-time residence since 2006,” he said in his speech at MM2H National Workshop yesterday.
He said the ministry targeted RM7.5 million annual revenue from the programme and until June, a total of RM6.4 million collection in visa fees had been recorded.
“This is an important programme for the ministry as it not only contribute to the country’s revenue, but also opens job opportunities to Malaysians.
“Most of the programme applicants were not here to work, but undergo medical treatment, while others planned to live with their families after retirement. This is due to the low cost of living apart from the various facilities available here,” he said.
Through MM2H, applicants would receive social visit pass that enable them to stay in Malaysia for 10 years.
However, they must go through screening process to fulfil the criteria which requires the applicants to be 50 years of age and above; have clean security and criminal records, as well as financially stable.