Understanding the New Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) Policy
The speaker discusses their feelings and experiences related to the recently announced changes to the Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) program. They express confusion over the new policies and offer insights based on their own application process and subsequent experiences living in Malaysia.
Initial Reactions to the New Policy
Confusion and Lack of Official Announcement
The speaker found the announcement of the new MM2H policy, which was released via a government official's Facebook page, to be unusual and somewhat unserious. Typically, they believe such policies should be announced more formally with official government statements.
Hesitation to Reapply
Given the tighter restrictions and higher requirements of the new policy, the speaker stated they would not consider reapplying for MM2H under the new regulations. The changes are deemed too significant and unacceptable for their needs and preferences.
The Speaker's Experience with the Previous MM2H Policy
Lengthy and Uncertain Application Process
The speaker described their application process as taking eight months and being subject to governmental departmental changes and policy adjustments. They felt that the process was often suspended and subject to frequent changes. They had heard about these issues from others, so there wasn't much suprise when finally getting approved.
Lack of Perceived Benefits
After receiving their MM2H visa, the speaker realized that the benefits were not as significant as expected, especially after Malaysia implemented the 30-day visa-free entry for Chinese citizens.
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They felt the MM2H visa did not offer any substantial advantages over the 30-day visa-free option.
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While the MM2H visa was thought to provide preferential access to some international schools, museums, and attractions, they didn't actually experience these benefits.
Disappointment with Immigration Procedures
The speaker was particularly disappointed that they were never able to use the automated immigration lanes (e-gates) as promised to MM2H holders, and were always required to go through manual processing. Despite confirming this option through government websites, customs officials said no.
Financial Considerations and Hidden Costs
Unexpected Expenses
The speaker highlighted the significant financial costs associated with applying for MM2H, including:
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Required deposits to the Malaysian government.
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Agent fees.
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Lost interest on deposits held in Malaysia.
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Currency exchange losses.
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International transfer fees.
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They stated that the loss of interest was particularly painful.
Increased Cost of Living
The speaker also noted that the cost of living in Malaysia has increased since they first arrived, including expenses like housing, utilities, and potentially petrol, which makes them feel that they are not getting their money's worth.
The Enduring Benefits of Living in Malaysia
Unchanged Advantages Despite Policy Changes
The speaker acknowledged that despite the changes to the MM2H policy, certain inherent advantages of living in Malaysia remain. These include:
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Relatively affordable international education.
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Multicultural environment.
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Welcoming and inclusive society.
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Beautiful natural environment.
Focus on Personal Goals
The speaker emphasizes that one should still consider visiting Malaysia, but the goal in doing so needs to be reevaluated. One must go back to their original reason for moving. The speaker also states that simply moving to Malaysia for education might not be the right decision.
Perspectives on Education and Lifestyle in Malaysia
International Education Considerations
The speaker shared anecdotes about families who moved to Malaysia for education. One family moved to escape the competitive education system in China, but then decided to move back. The parent, who was a professor, was worried his kid would become lazy with the non-competitive environment. Another family packed up and left because they thought Malaysia was too hot and missed the convenience of their parents helping with chores.
Reduced Stress and Improved Well-being
The speaker pointed out that living in Malaysia offers a less stressful and more relaxed lifestyle, contributing to better mental and physical health. Seeing blue skies every day has helped with this, and they feel they haven't been angry in a long time.
Analyzing the New MM2H Policy
Focusing on Problem-Solving
The speaker mentions the new changes to the MM2H policy, and various problems that have come with it. They state that the focus should now be on solving these problems and moving forward.
Comparing Goals to the New Policy
The speaker advises potential applicants to re-evaluate their original goals for applying to MM2H and compare them to the requirements of the new policy to see if it remains a suitable option.
Assessing the Economic and Financial Special Zone
The policy change that requires applicants to purchase property in a financial and economic special zone is one that may be favorable, but the housing available for the price may not be suitable for their needs. Property under RM500,000 is hard to come by and often small in size.
The New King's Impact
The speaker speculates that the new policy may be related to the new king of Malaysia, who is from Johor. The new rules about the special economic zone in particular may be an attempt to push more development in Johor, especially by selling off existing housing inventory.
Silver, Gold, and Platinum Categories
The speaker reviewed the new categories of MM2H visas. The silver category is for those who want to invest in the country. Those who want to apply for the Gold and Platinum categories will likely apply for the PVIP visa instead.
Policy Tightening
The speaker ends by pointing out that immigration policies around the world are tightening. While the new MM2H has been announced, the process is still not yet in place. All agents will be re-certified before the new process can move forward, so it is best to wait for more details.
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