JOHOR BARU: A state leader has welcomed the government’s move to re-examine the new criteria imposed on the Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) programme.

Adviser to Johor Mentri Besar Datuk Tee Siew Kiong said the MM2H programme implemented previously was pro-investor and brought many advantages which contributed to the state’s economy.

The former state executive councillor for tourism added the positive effects of the programme were particularly significant to Johor’s tourism and real estate sectors.

“Most foreigners who chose to settle in Johor were from China, South Korea, Japan and Britain.

“Due to the favourable currency exchange, they were able to purchase property and contribute to the economy here.

“I believe the positive spillover also benefited small and medium enterprises,” he said.

For a long time, Johor contributed significantly to the country’s gross domestic product (GDP), he said, adding that this, however, had been greatly affected by the border closure.

“The Federal Government should take Johor’s economic situation as a crucial factor when reconsidering the MM2H programme or any future policies for that matter, so that forward-looking, strategic and pro-investor programmes could be drawn.

“This will give us a continuous competitive edge to attract overseas investors and for foreigners to continue making Malaysia their first choice for a second home,” he said.Tee, who is also Pontian MCA chief, added that this would help to revive and boost the state and country’s economy.

It was reported that Johor ruler Sultan Ibrahim Ibni Almarhum Sultan Iskandar expressed disappointment over the new conditions set for MM2H, saying the ruling was “going to drive investors and tourists away from Malaysia”.

He urged the government to review the new conditions or consider reverting to the programme’s previous ones since they have a proven track record of promoting the country as a retirement destination.

On Wednesday, Home Minister Datuk Seri Hamzah Zainudin said the government would look into the issue seriously and was prepared to re-examine the new criteria imposed on the programme.

Separately, besides MM2H, Tee suggested the government set up a special unit to study and implement programmes that integrate the strengths of various races and ethnic groups in the country.

“To restore the country’s prosperity in a post-pandemic world, we have to keep in mind that we cannot be divided in our agendas.

“This new unit will be in line with the Malaysian Family concept touted by Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob in his maiden speech as Prime Minister and should be led by him to ensure that future policies have positive effects on society.

“This will move the country in the right direction,” he said, adding that the Malaysian Family concept could also be seen as an extension of the state’s Bangsa Johor concept, which was created to unite all races in the southern state.

https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2021/09/03/maintain-mm2h-pro-investor-policy-says-tee