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MALAYSIA’s story is one of growth through collaboration. In the 1970s and 1980s, foreign professionals helped build our national institutions, infrastructure and industries.

The 1990s industrial boom relied heavily on skilled knowledge workers from abroad. 

Over four decades, thousands of foreigners have not only worked here but planted deep roots — raising families, paying taxes and actively building Malaysia’s economy.

Yet today, many long-term contributors still face no clear route to permanent residency (PR). 

I hold a PR card, but I obtained it 15 years ago under more straightforward rules.

For others, even after 20 or 30 years of contribution, the “red IC” remains elusive. 

This uncertainty discourages people from committing their futures here.

Malaysia has alternatives, but they fall short of true security.

The Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) programme is largely a retirement and investment visa. 

It grants 10- to 20-year stays to wealthy foreigners who deposit funds or invest in property.

It does not reward professionals who drive our digital economy or support our industries.

TalentCorp’s Residence Pass-Talent 

(RP-T) allows highly skilled expatriates to live and work in Malaysia for 10 years, provided they earn above RM15,000 per month, have at least three years of local employment and pay income taxes for two years. 

However, RP-T is not PR. At the end of 10 years, holders must reapply and there is no pathway to permanent status. 

This stands in contrast to other countries.

Singapore, for instance, operates a structured PR system based on points, covering professionals, investors and spouses of citizens.

Australia and Canada allow skilled migrants to convert work permits into PR after defined periods of contribution, with transparent criteria.

These models make a simple promise: if you build the country, you can stay. The solution lies in designing a clear, merit-based pathway. 

A conversion system could allow RP-T holders, who complete eight to 10 years with consistent tax contributions and good records, to apply for PR.

Additional points could be awarded for entrepreneurship, local hiring, family ties and community service.

Married foreigners or those raising children in Malaysia should be given priority consideration.

Malaysia should recognise that permanent residency is an investment. It rewards people who have already proven their loyalty and contributions.

Creating such a pathway would help us retain knowledge workers, entrepreneurs and families who already call Malaysia home.

MB

The views expressed here are the views of the writer and do not necessarily reflect those of the Daily Express. If you have something to share, write to us at: Forum@dailyexpress.com.my