What is MM2H? Malaysia My Second Home Programme (MM2H) is initiated and promoted by the Government of Malaysia, to allow foreigners to stay in Malaysia for as long as possible, on a multiple-entry Social Visit Pass.

The programme is open to all nationalities regardless of race, religion, gender or age; where applicants are allowed to bring their spouses and unmarried children below the age of 21; and parents (above 60 years old), as dependents. The Social Visit Pass is initially for a period of ten (10) years, and is renewable.

MM2H is placed the third (3rd) best and cheapest migration programme in the world, after Nigaracua and Panama, rated by InternationalLiving.com Approvals for application are processed within a short period of just 30 to 60 days!

Since the inception of MM2H, some 12,000 people have been approved under this programme, attracting foreign nationals; those who wish to retire or semi-retire, businessmen who wish to conduct business from an Asian base; as well as those who wish to educate their children in one of the best-developed* and quality educational systems; both public and private.

*Malaysia has been ranked the world’s 11th most preferred study destination by UNESCO

MALAYSIA MY SECOND HOME

MM2HMalaysia

welcoMes the world

Geography

Malaysia is made up of two distinct geographical parts - Peninsular Malaysia to the west and the states of Sarawak and Sabah on Borneo Island to the east, both of which sit just north of the equator and are separated by the South China Sea. Peninsular Malaysia has a border with Thailand to the north and the island of Singapore sits offshore in the south, while Malaysian Borneo shares borders with Brunei and Indonesia.

The total area of Malaysia is approximately 330,000 square km, with most of it located on the island of Borneo. Peninsular Malaysia only comprises approximately 40% of the total area.

Malaysia is not located within the Pacific Ring of Fire Zone, making it free from major natural disasters such as volcanoes, tsunami, typhoons and earthquakes.

Weather

The country enjoys a tropical climate, with weather that is pleasant, warm and balmy with moderate rain throughout the year. Temperatures in the lowlands range from 21ºC (70ºF) to 32ºC (90ºF). Weather by the beaches is warm and breezy.

There are also highland residential areas and resorts with permanent spring-like weather throughout the year, which temperatures are between 15°C (59°F) to 25°C (77°F).

Annual rainfall varies from 2,000mm to 2,500mm. However, the wettest parts of Malaysia could well be the hill slopes of Sarawak’s inland areas, which receive a mean annual rainfall exceeding 5,000mm.

Time

Eight hours ahead of GMT and 16 hours ahead of U.S. Pacific Standard Time.

GEOGRAPHYwhy choose Malaysia?

Malaysia, situated in the heart of South East Asia, reflects the very essence of Asia: a bubbling, bustling melting pot of races and religions, where various ethnic groups live together in peace and harmony. The country has much to offer, not least, of which is a low cost of living, made more attractive with relatively high standards of living.

The rapid economic growth of Malaysia has resulted in substantial investment towards infrastructure and the continuous upgrading of facilities to world-class standards. The World Economic Forum (WEF) has just this year ranked Malaysia as the 24th most competitive nation among 148 countries in its Global Competitiveness Report (GCR) 2013-2014. The country remained the second most competitive among ASEAN and ranked seventh position among 25 Asia-Pacific countries.

Yet, in spite of rapid growth, Malaysia has not lost its traditional cultural essence and is well-known for its extreme contrasts, which further add to its ‘diversity’; towering skyscrapers look down upon wooden houses built on stilts, while five-star hotels sit just metres away from ancient reefs.

All this and more has made Malaysia a perfect choice for a second home.

Kuala Lumpur

Penang

Johor Bahru

Kota Kinabalu

Kuching

Putrajaya

The People of Malaysia: Truly Asia

Malaysia is a multi-racial country consisting of Malays, Chinese, Indians and numerous indigenous people. Having lived together for generations, all these cultures have influenced each other creating a truly Malaysian culture. Malaysian people are also world-renowned for their sincere warmth and hospitality.

Culture: A Land of Charming Diversity

Malaysia is a mosaic of cultures, owing to its colourful historical past and being part of the international spice route many hundreds of years ago. The amalgamated culture is a colourful heritage that is still a large part of daily life practices, despite urbanisation of the cities.

Language: A Place Where Everyone Understands You

The English language is well established as an international language of choice with a large number of people conversing in fluent English. This makes Malaysia especially attractive to native English speakers or those who speak enough English to communicate.

The national language is the Malay language (Bahasa Malaysia). Other languages are spoken freely among the diverse ethnicities, which include the various dialects of the Chinese and Indian language; in East Malaysia, the native languages.

Religion: Tolerance and Respect for All

Islam is the official religion of the country, but other religions such as Buddhism, Hinduism and Christianity are widely and freely practised.

CULTURE

Recreation and entertainment facilities are abundant in Malaysia, owing to the year-round pleasant weather and natural wonders of its tropical environment. The country has everything for the family, or for individual pursuit of fun and recreation – theme parks, jungle trails, world-class cinemas, performing arts theatres and art galleries, sports facilities, water sports and one of the highest number of golf courses.

Malaysia,a world

of luxury

REcREAtiOn & EntERtAinMEnt

Foods and Fruits in Malaysia: A Food Haven!

Malaysian food is a varied culinary spectrum, originating from Malaysia’s multi-ethnic population. Malaysians relish and celebrate their diverse food, which includes an eclectic mix of International food as well; to suit all tastes and budgets. Indulge in gourmet cuisine created by amazing chefs in designer restaurants, or sample an endless amount of treats found at malls, store-fronts, street-side hawker stalls or the 24-hour local ‘mamak’ restaurants; which are run by Muslim-Indians; and open seven days a week! The best part is that eating out is thoroughly affordable in Malaysia.

Similarly, the tropical fruits of Malaysia are unique, exotic and available in abundance practically throughout the year. There are several different tropical fruits that are unique to the country; the King and Queen of Fruits; the Durian and Mangosteen; respectively, are both Southeast Asian native fruits that are highly prized and bear fruit at the same time.

FOOD

SHOPPinGExperience the Indoor and Outdoor Shopping: A Shoppers’ Paradise

Malaysians love shopping, which is why there is a huge number of luxury malls, as well as the local street-side stalls and stores. Local regulations ensure items are price-tagged and prominently displayed, particularly at department stores in shopping malls where prices are fixed. Upmarket shopping malls where everything is designed for shopper convenience; contain banks, foreign currency exchange counters, supermarkets, restaurants, entertainment centres such as cineplexes and bowling alleys, and hundreds of shops offering a tremendous range of goods.

For interesting curios and local fare, shoppers can visit one of the many weekly flea markets and night markets – ‘Pasar Malam’; where haggling is a much required skill and presents an interesting insight into the lives of the locals.

The Malaysia Mega Sale Carnival, held between August and September is the perfect time to shop; it is when the entire country offers large discounts.

shoppers paradise

City Excitement: A balance of modern sophistication and old-world charm

Where the fun never stops – Genting Highlands, PahangDubbed the City of Entertainment, Genting Highlands sits at a 2,000m altitude and beckons visitors with its cool climate, theme parks, casino, and spectacular entertainment at the Genting International Showroom or Pavilion, be it a thrilling magic show or an ice-skating extravaganza.

Malaysia’s 1st International Theme Park – LEGOLAND and Hello Kitty Town, JohorThe first of its kind in Asia, LEGOLAND offers over 40 thrilling rides, shows and attractions spread across 76 acres of land. One of the main attractions here is the Miniland. More than 30 million Lego bricks are used in the building of these monuments including the Petronas Twin Towers, The Merlion Statue, Taj Mahal and others.

Nature and Adventure: Discover lush landscape, amidst exotic flora and fauna

Afternoon tea and scones – Cameron Highlands, PahangThe British came and left, but not before passing on their penchant for a cuppa tea. Sip on hot Cameronian tea while nibbling freshly baked scones at this cool hill station.

Malaysia is featured as one of the Top 10 Countries in Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2014 list; positioning itself as an unmissable destination for travellers. The Huffington Post has also named Malaysia the “2nd best stress-free-solo travel destination in the world”, stating that Malaysia is “Safe, affordable and full of opportunities for outdoor exploration.”

Whether you choose to travel as a backpacker, explore a homestay programme or indulge in luxury travel; Malaysia is raising the game for travellers and you’ll want to be part of this epic year!

Islands and Beaches: Enjoy the sun, sea and sand as you relax and rejuvenate

Mystery, myth, legend – Langkawi, KedahThe 99-island archipelago of Langkawi is paradise for beach-going, sun-chasing nature lovers; offering some of Malaysia’s finest resorts, most stunning beaches and UNESCO-listed natural beauty; not to mention ultra-cheap duty free shopping and a legendary history lending an air of mystery.

Wreck diving – Redang Island, TerengganuA lush, tranquil island retreat offering crystal clear waters, beneath of which lies a mesmerising bed of live corals and amazing marine life; 31 spectacular dive sites, including two World War II historic shipwreck sites and a black coral garden.

TRAVEL

Scale new heights – Kinabalu Park, SabahA UNESCO World Heritage Site, Kinabalu Park is home to Mount Kinabalu, Malaysia’s highest peak. Adventure seekers may also take on the world’s highest via ferrata, located at 3,800 metres above sea level.

Cultural Attractions: A unique heritage presents an ultra-enriching cultural experience

A snapshot of history – Melaka City, MelakaFirmly rooted as Malaysia’s historical city, Malacca takes you on a journey back in time during Malacca’s golden age. This charming city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is well balanced with other modern attractions, such as water theme parks and cultural parks.

Modernity amidst old-world charm – George Town, PenangA fascinating fusion of the East and West, Penang embraces modernity, while retaining its traditions and quaint appeal, as acknowledged in its UNESCO World Heritage Site title. Penang is also regarded as the food capital of Malaysia, where local fare, ranging from fabulous Chinese, Malay, Indian and Nyonya cuisines, to foodstall favourites like nasi kandar, char kway teow and penang laksa are cooked in a uniquely ‘Penang’ way.

adventure with

Malaysia

EDUCATION

ECONOMYStandard of Living

Cost of living is one of the lowest in Asia, in spite of the modern infrastructure and facilities in place. This is achieved through the Government’s efficient management of the economy, in ensuring that inflation is kept low at all times and thereby the prices of goods and services as well. The low cost of living will allow your money to stretch far.

CurrencyThe unit of currency is Malaysian Ringgit indicated, as RM. USD1 is roughly equivalent to RM3.25. (Date: 13 January 2014, Source: http://www.xe.com/currencyconverter/convert/?From=USD&To=MYR#converter)

Foreign currency can be easily converted at banks and money changers (subject to the prevailing rate).

Study in Malaysia

Malaysia has been ranked the world’s 11th most preferred study destination by UNESCO. The country has one of the best-developed, internationally acclaimed education systems – both public and private. Internationally-recognised education is available right from nursery to tertiary education. There are international schools of repute in all major towns, with English as a medium of instruction. There are also private colleges and universities offering twinning programmes with other well-known universities and major colleges around the world. Several renowned and established world-class foreign universities have also set up branch campuses in the country; Monash, Raffles and Newcastle; just to name a few. Because this international-class education is available at a very reasonable cost, Malaysia is fast becoming a viable and preferred education centre of excellence for the region.

GDP Growth Rate

Malaysia, a middle-income country, has one of the fastest growing economies Asia. It has transformed itself from a producer of raw materials, into an emerging multi-sector economy. Malaysia’s government is continuing efforts to boost domestic demand to wean the economy off of its dependence on exports.

The Gross Domestic Product (GDP) in Malaysia expanded 1.40 percent in the second quarter of 2013 over the previous quarter. From 2000 until 2013, Malaysia GDP Growth Rate averaged 1.3 percent reaching an high of 5.9 percent in September of 2009.

Infrastructure

The entire country is very well connected with a world-class airport, up-to-date modern road, rail, air and sea transportation systems. Public transport is comfortable and relatively low in cost. Additionally, the country’s telecommunication systems, whether fixed lines or mobile communication, is equivalent to that of developed countries.

a hiGh standard of livinG

Participants of Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) Programme are provided with various benefits and incentives to make their stay more comfortable and enjoyable in Malaysia.

Free to Stay and Travel

Participants are free to stay in Malaysia and travel as often as they like.

House Purchase

Each participant may purchase any number of residential property in Malaysia, subject to the minimum price established for foreigners by the different states. They start from RM1,000,000 per unit for most states. Profits made on the sale of property is subjected to current Real Property Gains Tax rate set by the Government.

Car Purchase

Each participant is allowed to import his/her personal car owned before joining MM2H programme OR purchase a locally-assembled car without the need to pay import duty, excise duty and sales tax.

Tax-Free Income From Abroad

Participants are bound by the policies, systems and regulations of taxes of this country. However, tax exemption is given to foreign income remitted into Malaysia.

Education

Participants are allowed to bring their children who are aged below 18 years old and not married as their dependants under this programme. Children are free to pursue their education in the various education institutions including kindergarten, international schools, colleges and universities.

Business Investment

Participants can be an investor and passively participate in their businesses in Malaysia, but subject to existing Government policies, regulations and guidelines which are in force for the relevant sectors and and permit is needed.

Domestic Helper

Each participant is allowed to apply for one domestic helper/maid, subject to the prevailing guidelines of the Immigration Department of Malaysia.

BENEFITS & INCENTIVES

thinKinG of stayinG in Malaysia?