KUCHING: Sarawak has proven its capability to manage the Sarawak–Malaysia My Second Home (S-MM2H) Programme independently, having recorded an increase in applications of more than 90 per cent since taking over full management from the federal government.
Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts, Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, said this achievement reflects the effectiveness of the state government’s approach and initiatives in attracting foreigners to reside and work in Sarawak.
“All matters related to S-MM2H, including the issuance of permits and licensing of travel agents, are now fully managed by the state government under powers granted by the federal government.
“These statistics prove the effectiveness of the measures we have taken,” he said at the signing ceremony of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between PSB and Riyaz International Sdn Bhd here yesterday.
The S-MM2H Programme, managed by the state government, aims to attract foreigners to reside long-term in Sarawak, thereby contributing to economic development through the tourism, real estate, education, and healthcare sectors.
According to him, this positive achievement aligns with the strong growth of Sarawak’s tourism sector, which has recorded nearly 2.5 million visitor arrivals — half of the target of five million visitors for 2025.
Therefore, he is optimistic that the target can be achieved, and even surpassed last year’s figure of 4.8 million visitors, as the second half of the year marks the peak tourist season.
“The state’s tourism revenue has also shown encouraging growth, with income exceeding RM1 billion each month since January.
“As at the end of June, the total tourism revenue reached RM6.15 billion. This is a proud achievement, and we have already applied for approval to build more new hotels to meet future demand,” he explained.
He added that the economic spillover from the tourism sector is evident, as it flows into various sectors such as hotels, restaurants, transportation, and handicrafts, thus strengthening the ecosystem and the socioeconomy of the people.
For the record, starting January 1, 2025, the programme will enter a new era with the introduction of various enhancements, including opening eligibility to all foreign nationals from countries with diplomatic relations with Malaysia and aged 30 and above.
Participants must open a fixed deposit account with any local bank in Sarawak with a deposit amount of RM500,000 for each application, including their spouse and dependents.
Meanwhile, approved S-MM2H participants are allowed to purchase houses here valued at a minimum of RM600,000 in the Kuching division and RM500,000 in other divisions.
