Kota Kinabalu: Kota Kinabalu Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KKCCCI) President Datuk Michael Lui expressed support for the Federal Government’s decision to grant Sabah full control over the Sabah-Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) Programme, to be managed through the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (Motac).
Lui views this as a mutually beneficial arrangement for both the Federal and Sabah governments, enhancing applicant confidence and reducing confusion.
“Following Motac Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing’s announcement, Sabah can now establish its own MM2H Programme application and approval criteria, with the authority to evaluate all applications and issue MM2H passes to successful candidates,” Lui said.
He said the state committee, established by Sabah Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Christina Liew, must implement and enhance strict oversight.
When necessary, they should adjust relevant regulations to align with Sabah’s local requirements.
“KKCCCI hopes the State Tourism, Culture and Environment Ministry will issue agent licenses to genuine Sabahans to protect the interests of Sabah’s people,” he added.
“This positive step by the Federal Government in delegating power to the Sabah Government underscores the urgency of further decentralisation, including crucial infrastructure like electricity, water, and roads.
“We also encourage relevant Federal departments to engage in frequent discussions with Sabah to clarify terms, aiming to reach consensus through harmonious dialogue,” Lui said.
Meanwhile, Elopura Assemblyman Calvin Chong urged the State Government to provide detailed information about the application procedure for the MM2H programme.
He said there is the need to confirm whether the MM2H application process is officially operational and accessible to applicants.
Calvin pointed out that this matter has not been clearly communicated by the Government until today.
