Sarawak vs Sabah MM2H 2025: Which Is More Expensive?
Malaysia’s My Second Home (MM2H) program continues to attract foreign retirees, investors, and families seeking a blend of tropical paradise and modern amenities. With Sarawak and Sabah updating their MM2H programs in 2024, the enhancements set to take effect Jan 1, 2025, have created a buzz among applicants. But which is more expensive, and which offers the better lifestyle for your investment? Let’s dive into the specifics of Sarawak MM2H and Sabah’s MM2H program to help you decide.
Sarawak vs Sabah MM2H 2025:
Sarawak MM2H: Flexible and Affordable
Eligibility and Requirements for S-MM2H
The Sarawak MM2H program, or S-MM2H, is open to individuals from countries with diplomatic relations with Malaysia, excluding Israel and North Korea. Applicants must declare their country of origin and any additional citizenships. This ensures transparency and compliance with the guidelines laid out by the Sarawak immigration authorities.
Applicants must be at least 30 years old to qualify. This program, also known as the Sarawak-Malaysia My Second Home, has undergone significant updates to enhance its functionality.
Financial Commitments
The investment requirements for the Sarawak MM2H program make it one of the more accessible options under the Malaysia My Second Home umbrella.
- Fixed Deposit:
Participants must deposit RM500,000 into a local bank in Sarawak. This requirement aligns with the state’s economic objectives while ensuring financial security for applicants. After one year, participants can withdraw up to 50% of the fixed deposit for approved purposes, such as:- Property purchase in Sarawak.
- Buying a car.
- Covering medical expenses or undergoing long-term medical treatment.
- Funding children’s education in Sarawak.
- Income Requirements:
Applicants must meet specific income requirements, including:- Pension or offshore income: RM10,000 per month for individuals or RM15,000 for families.
- Non-pension income: RM100,000 annually for individuals or RM200,000 annually for families.
These requirements ensure applicants can maintain a comfortable lifestyle while contributing to Sarawak’s economy.
Lifestyle Benefits
Participants must stay in Sarawak for at least 30 days a year. This minimum stay requirement offers significant flexibility, allowing applicants to balance life in Sarawak with other commitments.
Additionally, property investments are encouraged, with minimum values set at RM600,000 in Kuching and RM500,000 in other areas of Sarawak. Properties can be sold after five years, providing flexibility for participants.
Work and Business Opportunities
The S-MM2H program allows participants to engage in limited professional activities, including:
- Part-time work for up to 20 hours per week in approved fields.
- Investments in joint ventures, with a minimum stake of RM250,000. Participants can hold up to 49% ownership in sectors like arts and culture, education, and medical services.
Additional Benefits of S-MM2H
- Tax Exemptions: Funds brought into Malaysia are tax-free, a significant benefit for participants.
- Maid Assistance: Participants can bring a maid to enhance convenience.
- Medical Insurance: Comprehensive medical coverage is mandatory, ensuring peace of mind during your stay.
The S-MM2H program represents a significant achievement for the industry and performing arts ministry, aligning with Sarawak’s broader economic goals.
Sabah MM2H: Tiered for Premium Options
Eligibility and New Requirements
The revamped Sabah MM2H program, which will take effect Jan 1, 2025, introduces a tiered structure catering to diverse needs. Managed by the Ministry of Tourism, this program is open to applicants aged 30 and above from countries with diplomatic relations with Malaysia.
Financial Commitments for Sabah MM2H
Sabah’s MM2H program features three tiers, designed to attract applicants with varying financial capacities:
- Silver Tier:
- RM500,000 fixed deposit in a trust fund.
- Proof of income: RM10,000 per month for individuals or RM15,000 for families.
- Gold Tier:
- USD 500,000 fixed deposit.
- No income proof required.
- Platinum Tier:
- USD 1 million fixed deposit.
- No income proof required.
Participants can withdraw up to 40% of the fixed deposit after two years for specific purposes, including property purchase, education, and medical expenses.
Property Investments
Applicants must invest in high-rise properties valued at a minimum of RM600,000. Resale is restricted for 10 years, ensuring stability in Sabah’s real estate market.
Visa Durations for Sabah MM2H
The program offers tiered visa durations:
- Silver Tier: 5-year Multiple Entry Visa (MEV), renewable.
- Gold Tier: 15-year MEV.
- Platinum Tier: 20-year MEV.
These long-term visa options make Sabah’s program highly attractive to applicants seeking stability.
Family-Friendly Features
The Sabah MM2H program accommodates dependents, including spouses, parents, parents-in-law, and children under 21. This inclusivity positions Sabah as a family-friendly destination.
Employment Opportunities
While participants in the Silver and Gold tiers cannot work, Platinum Tier applicants can engage in professional activities, contributing to Sabah’s economy.
Key Comparisons: Sarawak MM2H vs. Sabah MM2H
| Feature | Sarawak MM2H | Sabah MM2H |
|---|---|---|
| Fixed Deposit | RM500,000 (50% withdrawal) | RM500,000 to USD 1M (40% withdrawal) |
| Income Proof | RM10,000–RM15,000/month | Required for Silver Tier only |
| Property Investment | RM500,000–RM600,000 | RM600,000 minimum |
| Visa Duration | 10 years (renewable in 5-year terms) | 5–20 years, based on tier |
| Employment Opportunities | Part-time and joint ventures | Platinum Tier only |
| Dependents Allowed | Spouses, children, maid | Spouses, children, parents |
Cost Perspective:
- Sarawak’s MM2H program is more affordable, catering to retirees and moderate-income families.
- Sabah’s MM2H program targets high-net-worth individuals with premium tiers offering exclusive benefits.
Conclusion: Choosing Your Second Home in Malaysia
Whether you choose Sarawak or Sabah, the MM2H programs provide incredible opportunities for a new lifestyle in Malaysia. Sarawak MM2H offers affordability, flexibility, and a focus on moderate-income families, while Sabah MM2H caters to high-net-worth individuals seeking long-term luxury.
As the new changes take effect Jan 1, 2025, the choice depends on your financial capacity, lifestyle preferences, and goals for your second home.
