In a statement, the group called for the two ministries to collaborate and resolve the licensing issues swiftly.

This follows a report last month quoting Sarawak tourism, creative industry and performing arts minister Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah as saying that MM2H programme agents were unable to renew their business licences.

The group also expressed concern about the impact of the programme’s suspension, as its delayed launch had affected agents.

“Before Covid-19, many licensed agents operated successfully. However, the suspension has led to numerous agents ceasing operations.

“Currently, only 17 licensed agents remain in Sabah, facing operational challenges and losses,” it said.

The group urged the government to share the programme’s approval statistics to help stakeholders understand its benefits and identify areas for improvement.

“Transparent data on application numbers, approval rates and demographic insights will enable stakeholders to fully appreciate the programme’s benefits and identify areas for improvement, thereby fostering greater trust and collaboration.”

Earlier today, tourism, arts and culture minister Tiong King Sing said the new regulations for the MM2H programme had received Cabinet approval and details would be announced soon.

Introduced in 2002, the MM2H programme allows foreigners to purchase property and reside in Malaysia for an extended period.

It was temporarily frozen in August 2020 for a comprehensive review by the home ministry and the tourism, arts and culture ministry.

Since October 2021, the immigration department has managed all new MM2H applications.