S'wak sees rising interest from Japanese nationals under S-MM2H programme, says Abd Karim
Abdul Karim speaks to reporters after launching the Leo Forum 2025. – Photo by Roystein Emmor
KUCHING (June 5): Sarawak is seeing growing interest from Japanese nationals looking to relocate to the state under the Sarawak-Malaysia My Second Home (S-MM2H) programme, said State Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah.
He noted that tourist arrivals from Japan have increased, with several individuals expressing a desire to settle in Sarawak for the long term.
'At present, there are no formal proposals to offer residency similar to what Singapore or Brunei provide.
'However, the S-MM2H programme is open to them, and it continues to attract strong interest, particularly from China,' he told reporters after launching the Leo Forum 2025 at the Raia Hotel and Convention Centre here today.
When asked if the state plans to introduce new initiatives to attract more Japanese nationals, Abdul Karim said no such discussions have taken place yet.
'We've already opened a Trade and Tourism Office in Singapore, one in Brunei Darussalam, and another one is being planned in the city of Pontianak, West Kalimantan.
'The state government also has a proposal, if I'm not mistaken, to open one in Abu Dhabi.
'But if there is a need to open in other cities or countries, we can consider it,' he said.
He said many applicants under the programme are senior citizens drawn by Sarawak's reputation as a safe and peaceful destination with quality medical care.
'Sarawak is seen as a safe place with good medical facilities, which is important for elderly applicants.
'Our strong healthcare system and overall safety are major pull factors,' he added.
Abdul Karim also highlighted that some Korean families have begun enrolling their children in English-language schools such as Tunku Putra, with parents applying under the same programme.
Nearly 600 S-MM2H applications were approved in 2024, and a similar figure is expected for this year, he added. Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah Japanese lead s-mm2h
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