MM2H, Malaysia My Second Home
The MM2H programme, Malaysia My Second Home visa, colloquially known as Malaysia's Golden Visa, is a remarkable initiative that has been attracting tens of thousands of citizens from around the globe who want to retire in Malaysia or start a new life in the sun, a life as expatriates.
MM2H is a scheme that has been lauded for its inclusivity, being open to citizens of all countries. In fact, since its inception in 2002, it has approved more than 50,000 applicants, making it one of the most popular investor visas in the world.
Unique Charm
The MM2H visa offers an enticing opportunity for expats and retirees to reside in Malaysia, either part-time or full-time. It's a unique blend of the familiar and the exotic, with its rich history as a former British colony and its diverse population of Malay, Indian and Chinese communities. This cultural mix adds a unique charm to the country, offering a rich array of architecture and cuisine.
Malaysia is a country that is easy to fall in love with. Its capital, Kuala Lumpur, is a modern, efficient city that offers a world-class location for business. The cost of living is significantly lower than in many Western and even many Eastern countries, with an estimated monthly cost of around $1,500 in Kuala Lumpur.
This affordability extends to other aspects of life in Malaysia, such as healthcare, which, whilst of excellent quality, has a very affordably price point.
Travel Hub
The country's geographical location is another major draw. Situated in the heart of Southeast Asia, Malaysia is a hub for travel within the region. With the main hub for airline carrier Air Asia located here, major Asian cities are just one or two hours away.
This makes it easy for expats to explore the region, whether for business or pleasure. As a matter of fact, the Lion City, Singapore, is a mere drive across the Causeway. With MM2H, you get two exciting countries for the price of one.
The lifestyle in Malaysia is one that many expats find appealing. The country's climate is tropical, with beautiful beaches and huge swatches of as yet unexplored rainforests. For those who enjoy outdoor activities, there are plenty of opportunities for jungle trekking and exploring the natural beauty of the region. The country's sun-kissed holiday islands are regularly listed in the top 10 best lists in various world surveys. (Pro Tip:
Tioman Island).
Delicious Cuisine
The food in Malaysia is another highlight. Street food here is considered some of the best in Southeast Asia. The diverse cultural influences in the country have resulted in a cuisine that is varied and delicious.
In terms of taxation, Malaysia offers attractive incentives for expats. The country has a territorial tax system, which means foreign-sourced income is not subject to tax. It's safe to say that this can result in significant savings for those who choose to make Malaysia their second or first home.
Currency Exchange Arbitrage
The currency exchange rate is another factor that makes Malaysia an attractive destination for expats. The Malaysian Ringgit (MYR) typically offers favourable exchange rates against major currencies, making it more affordable for expats to live and invest in the country. More affordable by as much as a factor of 3, 4 or even 5, as in the case of the Euro.
So yes, the
MM2H visa offers a fantastic opportunity for those looking to experience life in Malaysia. With its affordable cost of living, excellent healthcare, favourable tax system and rich cultural diversity, it's no wonder that so many expats have chosen to make Malaysia their second home.
