MM2H should be discussed together, not just MoTAC having full authority to say this, say that. Sabah and Sarawak just have to follow? No. I’m very, very disappointed.
– Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah
SARAWAK has always had a unique position within Malaysia. The state’s autonomy has been a point of contention and pride, a delicate balance between asserting local control and integrating with national policies.
The Sarawak-Malaysia My Second Home (S-MM2H) programme is an excellent example of this dynamic. It offers an attractive alternative for foreigners, highlighting the state’s distinct appeal and more favourable conditions compared to the federal MM2H programme.
However, recent emotional outbursts by Sarawak Tourism, Creative Industry, and Performing Arts Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Hamzah regarding the S-MM2H programme is understandable.
For someone who is very vocal and protective about state rights, anyone in his position would have been very upset with the move by Putrajaya or rather the federal Tourism, Arts, and Culture Ministry’s (MoTAC) decision to terminate licensed agents handling the MM2H applications nationwide, including those in Sabah and Sarawak.
This sudden high-handed move by Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing will definitely affect Sarawak’s MM2H programme, which Abdul Karim has worked so hard to make successful. So much so that he didn’t mince his words when he said Sarawak would have no qualms about going it alone for the programme. I will be the first to support him if he decides to do so, and I believe if we were to go solo, there would be little repercussions.
I fully understand Abdul Karim’s frustration. The termination of licensed agents handling MM2H applications nationwide undermines the success and efforts put into the S-MM2H programme. It sends a message that local initiatives, no matter how successful, are subject to federal whims. This move could potentially dissuade foreigners who see Sarawak as a stable and welcoming second home destination.
Sarawak’s success with the S-MM2H programme is evident. The 90 per cent increase in applications speaks volumes about its appeal. This growth contrasts sharply with the 90 per cent decline in applications for the federal MM2H programme.
These numbers are not just statistics; they represent the confidence and trust that foreigners place in the Abang Johari Administration.
The federal decision has also impacted Sabah, which had plans to launch its own programme, following in Sarawak’s footsteps. The abrupt suspension of licensed MM2H agents disrupted these plans, highlighting the broader implications of federal overreach.
Despite this setback, Sabah remains determined to proceed with its programme, indicating a shared sentiment with Sarawak on the need for greater autonomy in managing such initiatives.
Tiong’s actions, though perhaps well-intentioned, could have been better handled. A more collaborative approach, involving consultations with state leaders like Abdul Karim and Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg, would have been more respectful and effective. Such top-down decisions risk alienating local governments and undermining their efforts.
However, Tiong’s concerns about transparency and the need for re-registration of agents are perhaps valid. Addressing issues of subleasing permits and disappearing agents (apparently in Malaya) is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the MM2H programmes. His assurance that the renewal of MM2H visas is unrelated to agent permits is a critical clarification.
Nonetheless, the manner in which these changes were implemented left much to be desired. Personally, I feel Tiong acted high-handedly.
The statistics from the MM2H and S-MM2H programmes is proof of Malaysia’s appeal as a destination. The high approval rates for applications indicate a robust interest in the country. Sarawak’s contribution, with over 500 approvals last year, highlights its significant role in this success.
The differences between the federal and Sarawak programmes are stark. The lower mandatory fixed deposit for S-MM2H makes it more accessible, reinforcing Sarawak’s commitment to attract and retain foreign residents. This flexibility is crucial for competing in a global market where other countries are also vying for long-term residents.
For example, the mandatory fixed deposit that applicants have to pay for S-MM2H is RM150,000 while the federal MM2H requires RM1 million.
The controversy surrounding Tiong’s actions should serve as a wake-up call for Putrajaya. It is important to recognise and respect the successes of local programmes like S-MM2H. Putrajaya should facilitate, not hinder, these initiatives.
Collaboration and consultation should be the cornerstone of any policy changes affecting state-run programmes.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and other top leaders must address this issue promptly. Allowing Sarawak and Sabah to manage their own MM2H programmes could set a positive precedent for other areas of local autonomy. It would demonstrate a commitment to state rights and the unique contributions of each state to the nation’s overall success.
Putrajaya must recognise the achievements of the S-MM2H programme and support its continued success. Abdul Karim and Abang Johari’s vocal advocacy for state rights is not just about regional pride; it is about ensuring that successful local initiatives are allowed to thrive.
Sometimes we need to shake the tree, so to speak, to have our voices heard. Thank God we are fortunate to have two able state leaders, Abang Johari and Abdul Karim, who are vociferous in fighting to regain our lost rights.
The federal government should listen, collaborate, and support these efforts to create a more harmonious and prosperous Malaysia for all.
The views expressed here are those of the columnist and do not necessarily represent the views of New Sarawak Tribune.
