By Shikin Louis
KUCHING, June 5: Sarawak is seeing a growing number of tourists from Japan, and the State welcomes the possibility of them applying to settle here under the Sarawak-Malaysia My Second Home (S-MM2H) programme.
Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said the trend is encouraging and signals the State’s appeal as a safe and comfortable destination for long-term stays.
“I have observed that the number of tourists from Japan is indeed on the rise.
“They may also explore the opportunity to apply under the Sarawak-Malaysia My Second Home (S-MM2H) programme, which is currently very popular especially among applicants from China,” he said when met by reporters after officiating the District 308-A2 Leo Forum 2025 at Raia Hotel here today.
He added that while Sarawak has yet to set up a dedicated trade and tourism office in Japan, such a move could be considered if demand grows.
Currently, Sarawak operates overseas tourism and trade offices in Singapore and Brunei, with a third one planned in Pontianak, West Kalimantan. Another office is being considered for Abu Dhabi.
Elaborating further on the S-MM2H programme, Abdul Karim said number of applications has been increasing, particularly from Europe and China.
“They look at Sarawak as a peaceful and safe place to stay with access to quality healthcare because most of them are elderly applicants.
“If our medical facilities and security are good, we will have many more applicants,” he stressed.
He noted that last year alone, Sarawak approved nearly 600 applications under the S-MM2H programme. He expects a similar figure this year.
Abdul Karim also highlighted that some families, including those from Korea, have relocated to Sarawak to give their children access to English education at a young age—with the parents applying for the S-MM2H programme in tandem.
Earlier, during the Leo Forum opening ceremony, Abdul Karim praised the Lions and Leo Clubs for providing a strong platform for youth leadership and community service, noting the participation of 351 delegates from 36 Leo Clubs, including 29 from Sarawak and 7 from Sabah.
The Leo Forum, hosted by Leo Club of Swinburne Sarawak and presided over by District Governor Annie Ho, saw spirited participation from students representing secondary schools and universities. The opening ceremony featured cultural performances, club presentations, and a roll call of participating delegates. – DayakDaily
