Malaysia has long been a favoured destination for expatriates, retirees, and investors due to its affordability, tropical climate, and high quality of life. The Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) program has been a key driver in attracting foreigners, particularly Chinese nationals, who are increasingly looking for a new home outside of China. In recent years, this trend has intensified, with more Chinese citizens choosing Malaysia not just for investment purposes but also as a way to escape the pressures of China’s fast-paced work culture and socio-economic challenges.
Recent reports, such as one from Malay Mail titled “No ‘Neijuan’ Here: Chinese Nationals Flock to Malaysia for Respite from the ‘996’ Life”, shed light on why Malaysia is becoming a prime destination for those seeking a better work-life balance and greater personal freedoms.
The Rise of ‘996’ and ‘Neijuan’ in China
Many Chinese professionals, particularly in the tech and finance industries, are subjected to the “996” work culture, which means working from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., six days a week. This grueling schedule has been linked to burnout, declining mental health, and an overall dissatisfaction with life.
Adding to the strain is the phenomenon of “neijuan” (内卷), or involution, which describes the intense competition within China’s workforce. Employees feel trapped in an endless cycle of working harder with little promise of upward mobility or improved quality of life.
Faced with these pressures, many affluent Chinese nationals are looking beyond their home country for a better way of life—one that Malaysia seems to offer.
A Surge in Chinese Participation
As of December 2024, mainland Chinese citizens account for approximately 45% of the 57,686 MM2H participants, translating to about 26,162 individuals. This marks a significant increase from previous years, with Chinese nationals consistently leading in MM2H applications since 2013.
Between September 2024 and January 2025, statistics reveal that:
- 53% of the 2,195 new MM2H applicants were from China.
- 8% were from Taiwan and 6% from Hong Kong.
- Over US$152.8 million was placed in fixed deposits by these applicants.
- Chinese participants collectively invested RM681 million in Malaysian properties.
(Source: Asia News Network)
Why Malaysia?
A Respite from Work Stress and Burnout
Malaysia provides a much-needed escape from China’s high-pressure work environment. Unlike in China, where intense competition and long working hours are the norm, Malaysia offers a more laid-back and balanced lifestyle. Many Chinese expatriates have found that they can work remotely, run businesses, or invest in Malaysia while enjoying a better quality of life with significantly less stress.
A recent Malay Mail report highlights the stories of Chinese nationals who have relocated to Malaysia to escape the toxic work culture of their homeland. Many expressed relief at being able to enjoy a slower pace of life, affordable services, and access to leisure activities that were previously out of reach due to work demands.
Lower Cost of Living and High Quality of Life
Compared to major Chinese cities like Shanghai, Beijing, or Shenzhen, Malaysia offers a much more affordable lifestyle. Property prices, daily expenses, and even education costs are significantly lower, making it attractive for those seeking financial freedom and a more comfortable life.
Many Chinese migrants note that in Malaysia, they can afford to dine out regularly, hire domestic help, and enjoy a standard of living that would be prohibitively expensive in China’s top-tier cities.
Cultural Familiarity and Ease of Integration
With a large ethnic Chinese population in Malaysia, language and cultural barriers are minimal. Chinese nationals can easily find Mandarin-speaking communities, Chinese cuisine, and familiar cultural practices, making their transition to life in Malaysia smoother compared to other Western countries.
Business and Investment Opportunities
Malaysia remains a business-friendly nation with many opportunities in real estate, hospitality, and trade. The country’s strategic location in Southeast Asia also makes it an ideal hub for Chinese investors looking to expand their businesses globally.
Chinese entrepreneurs who have moved to Malaysia under MM2H have found the country’s economic policies welcoming, with many setting up businesses in industries such as e-commerce, tourism, and property development.
Growing Chinese Communities and Support Networks
As more Chinese nationals migrate to Malaysia, expat communities have become stronger, offering support networks that ease the transition. Chinese-language schools, social groups, and even online platforms help newcomers integrate seamlessly into Malaysian society.
Reports indicate that popular areas for Chinese expatriates include Kuala Lumpur, Johor Bahru (especially due to its proximity to Singapore), and Penang, where Chinese culture is deeply rooted.
Expanding Educational Opportunities
One of the key factors driving the increasing migration trend is the availability of high-quality educational opportunities. Malaysia is home to numerous international schools and universities that offer a world-class education in a less competitive environment compared to China.
Additionally, Malaysian institutions provide more affordable tuition fees, making them an attractive option for Chinese families seeking quality education for their children. This growing preference for Malaysian education is evident in the rising number of Chinese student enrollments, which saw a 35% increase in 2023 compared to 2021.
How the MM2H Program Facilitates This Migration
The Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) program allows foreigners to live in Malaysia on a long-term visa, making it an appealing choice for those seeking residency without full migration. While the requirements for MM2H have been revised over the years, it remains one of the most accessible residency-by-investment programs in the region.
Key benefits of MM2H for Chinese nationals include:
- A renewable 5-year visa (previously 10 years, subject to updates)
- Freedom to invest in Malaysian property and businesses
- Opportunity for families to settle together, with children able to attend international schools
- A stable and peaceful environment compared to the uncertainties in China’s economic and political climate
For more information about MM2H, please visit : https://www.arkunitedrealty.com/mm2h/
Implications for Malaysia
The growing number of Chinese nationals settling in Malaysia brings both opportunities and challenges:
Opportunities:
✅ Economic Growth – Foreign investments in real estate, business, and education contribute to national development.
✅ Property Market Boost – The demand for premium housing drives higher property values and new developments.
✅ Stronger Business Ties – Strengthened trade relations between Malaysia and China promote mutual economic benefits.
Challenges:
❌ Housing Affordability Concerns – Rising foreign demand could lead to higher property prices, affecting local buyers.
❌ Cultural Integration – While there are shared traditions, effective social policies are needed to ensure harmony.
❌ Regulatory Adjustments – The government may need to fine-tune immigration and investment policies to balance benefits and local interests.
Conclusion
Malaysia’s affordability, cultural familiarity, business opportunities, and relaxed lifestyle continue to make it a top destination for Chinese nationals seeking an escape from the pressures of China’s work culture. As the demand for alternative residency options grows, Malaysia’s MM2H program remains a valuable avenue for those looking to relocate and invest in a country that offers both comfort and opportunity.
With more Chinese nationals viewing Malaysia as an ideal second home, the country is poised to see continued growth in its expatriate community, bringing long-term benefits to both new residents and the local economy.
Disclaimer
This article is based on publicly available information from sources including the International Organization for Migration and the Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) program. The views expressed do not necessarily reflect those of MyPropertyPlaces.com. Readers are advised to conduct independent research before making any investment decisions.
