Malaysia’s Revamped MM2H Programme Records Strong Recovery with Over USD 200 Million in Inflows

Malaysia’s revamped Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) programme has made an impressive comeback, recording more than 1,300 new approvals and attracting nearly USD 200 million (RM 840 million) in fixed deposits and property investments within the first year of the 2024 reform. The latest official data shows a significant jump in global interest, reaffirming Malaysia’s position as one of Asia’s top long-stay residency and retirement destinations.

Between October 2024 and June 2025, the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC) received 3,019 applications and approved 1,294 new participants, representing an 84% increase in inflows compared to the previous quarter of 2024. The programme’s financial contributions include RM 597.5 million in fixed deposits, RM 237 million in property purchases, and RM 5.2 million in participation fees—a strong indicator that confidence in Malaysia’s long-stay ecosystem has been fully restored.

The renewed growth is primarily driven by the restructured tier system—Silver, Gold and Platinum—which offers clearer pathways based on financial strength, lifestyle needs and long-term residency goals. The revised framework introduces more flexible financial requirements, improved transparency, and a streamlined application process that reduces entry barriers for foreigners. This positions Malaysia as a highly competitive alternative among global residency-by-investment programmes, especially compared to Thailand, Indonesia, Japan, South Korea and Singapore.

Malaysia’s strengthened global reputation as a retirement-friendly, affordable and culturally diverse destination has also contributed to the surge. The country offers a unique combination of tropical climate, modern healthcare, international education, vibrant city living, and cost-effective property ownership—all of which appeal strongly to retirees, remote professionals, digital nomads, and foreign families seeking long-term stability.

Industry analysts note that the increasing inflow of MM2H participants is also linked to rising foreign demand for Malaysian real estate, particularly in high-growth corridors such as Johor Bahru (RTS Link zone), Greater Kuala Lumpur, Penang technology hub, and Kota Kinabalu’s tourism belt. MM2H participants in higher tiers (especially Gold and Platinum) enjoy better investment flexibility, making Malaysian property an attractive component of their long-stay strategy. Developers and property agencies have already reported heightened interest from China, Singapore, Korea, Japan, the Middle East and Europe.

As global confidence grows and Malaysia continues fine-tuning its long-stay residency framework, experts believe the upward trend may continue throughout 2025–2026. The government has signalled that further enhancements may be introduced, especially in SEZ/SFZ regions, digital economy sectors and international talent programmes.

For prospective applicants, the latest data suggests that now may be the most favourable window to apply before any new policy adjustments are implemented. The MM2H programme currently provides:

• Long-term residency stability

• Renewable multi-entry social visit passes

• Property investment opportunities

• Attractive banking and financial incentives

• Family-friendly relocation benefits (spouse, children, parents)

Applicants should note that the new MM2H structure no longer allows walk-in or self-applications. All submissions must be handled through licensed MM2H agents approved by MOTAC, ensuring compliance with updated documentation and financial requirements.

As Malaysia strengthens its long-stay residency ecosystem, early applicants are likely to benefit from the current flexible framework, rising property values, and increasing international demand. With momentum accelerating and confidence returning to the market, MM2H is once again becoming one of the most appealing long-term residency programmes in Asia.