Kota Kinabalu: Sabah aims to attract at least 500 applicants for its Sabah-Malaysia My Second Home (Sabah-MM2H) programme this year, said State Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Seri Christina Liew.
“The more applicants we receive, the better it will be for the programme and the State,” she said when opening the Sabah-MM2H Open Day programme at Magellan Sutera Harbour, here, Friday.
AdvertisementLiew said the programme’s criteria would be reviewed in June 2025 to ensure it remains competitive, relevant and aligned with Sabah’s long-term development goals.
Launched on Dec 12, 2024, Sabah-MM2H is still in its early stages, and the State has appointed 100 agents to facilitate its implementation.
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Beyond being a visa programme, Liew highlighted Sabah-MM2H as a gateway to showcase Sabah’s unique appeal.
Advertisement“It highlights our vibrant cultural heritage, breath-taking landscapes and welcoming communities. “More importantly, it plays a crucial role in boosting Sabah’s economy by attracting residents who not only invest here but also contribute meaningfully to our society.”
The half-day programme provides a valuable opportunity for the Ministry, committee and stakeholders to exchange ideas, address current challenges and explore innovative ways to elevate Sabah-MM2H further.
Advertisement“Together, we must ensure that Sabah remains a compelling destination for long-term residents while safeguarding our cultural identity and natural environment.
Achieving sustainable growth and preserving what makes Sabah unique must remain at the heart of our efforts,” said Liew.
Speaking to reporters after the dialogue session of the programme, the Minister said stakeholders, including the agents, raised important issues, which will be brought to the Sabah-MM2H Committee.
“The committee, which I chair monthly, reviews and discusses necessary amendments before submitting them to the State Cabinet for approval,” said Liew.
She assured that the committee will regularly review the programme’s terms and conditions to keep it relevant and effective.
Additionally, she said plans are in place for overseas roadshows in major cities like Hong Kong, Shanghai and Beijing to promote Sabah-MM2H.
“We are expediting this process because other regions, like Sarawak and Peninsular Malaysia, started long ago. We need to catch up,” she added.
Looking ahead to 2025, Liew emphasised professionalism in managing the programme and encouraged agents to maintain close communication with KePKAS to support foreign applicants.
When asked about Sabah’s perceived delay in implementing Sabah-MM2H, Liew clarified that the programme was only introduced in 2024 and has undergone three revisions, each requiring Cabinet approval.
“That’s why it officially launched in December 2024. In the meantime, we worked to appoint 100 agents, a process that involved thorough vetting, including business background checks and site visits,” she said.
She stressed the crucial role of agents in assisting applicants, including handling security bond requirements with the Immigration Department.
“Appointing agents is not an easy process, but we have conducted rigorous screening. Our Ministry even visits their offices to ensure everything is in order before granting approval.
“Now, with the new year, we are moving forward with engagement sessions to strengthen the programme,” she added.
KePKAS Permanent Secretary Datuk Josie Lai, KePKAS Senior Assistant Secretary for the Sabah MM2H Unit Norita Tani, Chief Minister Department’s Sabah Home Affairs and Research Office Principal Assistant Secretary Mohammad Zaid Yusof and Garry Belayong, Deputy Director, State Immigration Department (Control), were also present.
