KUCHING, Sarawak has urged the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC) to reconsider its decision to halt the operations of agents for the Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) programme as it will affect the tourism sector, particularly in Sabah and Sarawak.
Sarawak’s Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said discussions with the federal government on this issue will be held, considering that both states have autonomy rights to manage tourism matters.
“These two states have slightly different conditions for MM2H. For example, in Sarawak, applicants need RM150,000 in a fixed deposit compared to RM1 million in the Peninsula, hence the demand for the programme in this state has surged.
“The autonomy power is with us and we have the immigration right on this. We will not rock the boat but we would expect the federal government through MOTAC to be considerate also with the policy we have been doing,’ he said.
He said this when met by reporters after v
isiting the Rainforest World Music Festival (RWMF) site at the Sarawak Cultural Village today.
It is learnt that MOTAC has issued a circular dated May 27, 2024 to all licensed agents handling MM2H applications, including in Sabah and Sarawak, to cease their operations.
Abdul Karim said MOTAC should have discussed with the state governments of Sabah and Sarawak before issuing the circular.
‘If MOTAC does not want to continue the programme because they are considering creating their own policy, then implement that policy in the Peninsula only; do not interfere with Sabah and Sarawak,’ he said.
Meanwhile, regarding the preparations for RWMF 2024, he said leaders from outside Sarawak and royalty are expected to be among the distinguished guests at the event, which is in its 27th edition this year.
‘This shows that the selection of artistes and performances this year is very good, thus attracting their interest to attend,’ he said.
Themed ‘Evolution’, RWMF 2024 will take place from June 28 to 30, featuring 2
0 performances by 68 international musicians from 14 countries along with 63 Malaysian artistes who will perform at the event.
Source: BERNAMA News Agency