Investigate Mas Ermieyati for sedition over MM2H comments, says Tiong

PETALING JAYA: Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing (pic, left) wants Opposition MP Datuk Mas Ermieyati Samsudin (pic, right) to be investigated for sedition following her alleged remarks related to the Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) programme.

This was after the Masjid Tanah MP alleged that the newly revamped Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) programme would immediately allow Chinese nationals to be eligible to become a permanent resident (PR) in Malaysia.

"Mas Ermieyati’s seemingly slanderous statement should be probed under the Sedition Act," Tiong posted on Facebook on Saturday (Dec 16).

"Aside from confusing the facts, her comments against the MM2H programme also created a racial issue, when in fact the programme is contributing towards the country's economic growth," said Tiong.

He added that the programme is aimed at boosting the nation’s economic recovery, and added that any applicants would undergo a thorough inspection before being approved.

Tiong then said that every applicant must pass a strict review process including financial screening and background checks before they are eligible to receive a pass according to conditions imposed by the Immigration Department.

"Why must Mas Ermieyati confuse the public and claim that the programme only sides with applicants from China? What is she trying to convey through provocation by picking on a specific country?

"Every applicant, irrespective of nationality, must fulfil terms in the Platinum category before they are allowed to apply for permanent residence (PR)," said the minister.

"Mas Ermieyati’s comments show her ignorance on numerous matters, and this is a way for her to gain political attention," added Tiong.

The revised system makes several changes to eligibility criteria.

For the Platinum tier, applicants must have a fixed deposit of RM5mil (USD1.05mil). They can withdraw half of the amount after a year to purchase properties priced at RM1.5mil minimum.

The minimum age requirement has been lowered to 30 years, opening the door to more people who seek to make Malaysia their second home.

Applications can only be submitted through licensed MM2H agents accredited by the ministry under the Tourism Industry Act 1992 as a way to make the process more streamlined and secure.

Another significant change is an expanded list of eligible dependents.

In addition to spouses, children below 21 and children with disabilities, the programme now covers all children between 21 and 34 years old who are not working in Malaysia or married.