THE Expat Group has suggested that those registered under Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) be permitted to work here, subject to restrictions.

Its managing director Andy Davison, an MM2H agent, said feedback over the years from interaction with MM2H participants (MM2Hers) and prospective applicants has reinforced his belief that allowing them to work will increase the number of applicants and benefit local companies.

But to prevent abuse, he proposed that the regulations be based on the age of MM2Hers.

"We believe they should be permitted to take any job here without restriction if they are over 55, and with a limit on the number of hours they can work in a month. For those under 55, understandably there would be more restrictions that may extend to obtaining prior approval from the Immigration Department to ensure they possess skills not available in Malaysia or are in short supply.

"We have been advocating this for several years. However, we understand the Ministry of Home Affairs has some concerns about allowing MM2Hers to take any paid employment, although it has no problem with charitable, volunteer work," he said, hoping the matter will be given further consideration for "compelling reasons".

"First, we are certain it will make MM2H much more attractive. We know of many people who would want to retire to Malaysia but are not willing to do so because they wish to do more than just live a life of leisure. Finding employment makes them feel useful and many welcome the extra income, since retirement income often does not increase with inflation.

"Second, local companies especially those seeking to expand internationally can benefit from tapping into this pool of older foreigners who possess a lifetime of working experience often gained around the world.

"They offer valuable knowhow in areas such as technical, teaching, linguistics, market specific and introducing their own international contacts. A big advantage for local companies is that they would not have to offer large expat packages as most would be satisfied with local wages," he explained.

"We understand that the government does not issue visas for part- time work, so there is currently no easy way for an MM2Her to lend expertise to a local company for a few hours a week," Davison added.

"It is highly unlikely a company would be willing to apply for a work permit for a part-time employee, or that MM2Hers would want to give up their MM2H status."

Meanwhile, MM2Her and IT industry retiree Arthur Gothard, 55, observed that those who would want to work here are mostly retired school teachers seeking part-time assignments, saying "the option is an incentive to them, or those with a background in education, compared to retired medical professionals".

For aeronautical engineer Dane Carter, 38, who has been working in the country for three years, said if he were to become an MM2Her, being able to work is something he would consider.

"Since I have working experience here, to return later and given the chance to work is not something I would dismiss. I can certainly offer my expertise to the aviation sector."

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