PR Applications for Foreign Spouses Eased, Dato’ G Kumaar Aamaan Supports Government’s Decision

In a historic decision aimed at strengthening family institutions and ensuring a brighter future for children, the government has announced that foreign spouses of Malaysian citizens are now eligible to apply for Permanent Residency (PR) after just three years of marriage, a significant reduction from the previous five-year requirement.

The points-based system for PR applications, which had been criticized for being burdensome and confusing, has also been abolished. The Ministry of Home Affairs confirmed that the new measures will take effect no later than 31 September 2025, with PR applications expected to be processed within six months.

Under the new rules, foreign spouses must have been married to a Malaysian citizen for at least three years and hold a Long-Term Social Visit Pass (LTSVP) for a minimum of one year before applying for PR. The approval process will now take into account factors such as the length of the marriage and the number of children the couple has, ensuring a more family-friendly and humane approach.

Dato’ G Kumaar Aamaan, Chief Editor of Ottrangknews and a prominent activist, expressed strong support for the government’s decision. “This is a progressive step that prioritizes the well-being of families and the future of children. Delays in PR processing have caused unnecessary hardships for families, and this move will provide much-needed relief,” he said.

The Foreign Spouses Support Group, which had received numerous complaints about the old points-based system, also welcomed the changes. Many applicants had struggled with the lack of transparency and the arbitrary nature of the system, which required at least 40 points for eligibility but left the final approval to the discretion of the ministry.

The Ministry of Home Affairs emphasized that these reforms reflect the government’s commitment to supporting the family institution and ensuring fair and efficient policies for all. “These initiatives are designed to speed up and simplify the PR application process, making it more accessible for foreign spouses who have built their lives and families in Malaysia,” the ministry stated.

With the implementation of these new measures, families across the country are expected to benefit from a more inclusive and compassionate approach to immigration policy.