“Malaysia ranks 4th among Chinese ultra-wealthy homebuyers seeking luxury properties in 2024, driven by affordable prices, MM2H visa perks, and rising tourism and education links.“
Kuala Lumpur, 15th Apr 2025, 11.55am – Malaysia has soared into the global luxury real estate spotlight, ranking 4th among the most-enquired destinations by Chinese high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs) seeking luxury homes priced at US$5 million and above, according to new data released by Juwai IQI.
The country made a stunning leap from outside the top 10 in 2023 to trail only Thailand, Australia, and Canada in 2024 — signalling growing interest from China’s ultra-wealthy investors in Malaysia’s property market.
Value, Education, and Lifestyle Drive Malaysia’s Rise
Juwai IQI co-founder and group CEO Kashif Ansari attributed Malaysia’s newfound popularity to a combination of strategic and lifestyle advantages, including:
- Exceptional value for money in prime real estate
- A rapidly expanding international education ecosystem
- Improved visa frameworks such as the revamped Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) programme
- An upscale yet affordable luxury lifestyle
“Malaysia is quietly emerging as Asia’s luxury market sweet spot,” said Kashif.
“It delivers the quality and comfort that high-net-worth Chinese buyers want — without the excessive price tags, capital controls, or visa complications seen in other markets.”
Chinese Tourism and Education Fuel Real Estate Demand
Malaysia’s luxury property appeal is also riding on the back of a sharp recovery in Chinese tourism. Nearly 1.2 million Chinese travellers visited Malaysia in the first five months of 2024, a surge that has boosted market confidence and strengthened real estate demand, especially in key cities like Kuala Lumpur, Johor Bahru, and Penang.
Meanwhile, Chinese student enrolment in Malaysian universities jumped 35% between 2021 and 2023 — a factor that has driven more families and investors to explore real estate options near top-tier institutions.
Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) Adds Long-Term Appeal
The 2023 revamp of the MM2H programme has also played a critical role. The scheme now allows participants to use part of their fixed deposits to invest in property, creating a clear pathway to long-term residency while incentivising real estate investment.
According to Savills, prime residential property in Kuala Lumpur averages just US$240 per square foot — a fraction of the cost in:
- Singapore (US$1,810)
- Bangkok (US$1,090)
This price gap positions Malaysia as one of the most competitively priced luxury property markets in Asia, further widening its appeal to international investors.
Strategic Location, Familiarity Strengthen Malaysia’s Edge
A market analyst noted that Malaysia’s proximity to China, coupled with established tourism, education, and business ties, makes it a natural destination for Chinese investors seeking second homes or overseas bases.
“Malaysia offers the lifestyle, connectivity, and real estate value today’s wealthy buyers are seeking,” he said.
“And unlike in other regional hotspots, the buying process here remains relatively straightforward.”
Outlook: Malaysia on Track to Become a Luxury Property Hotspot
With global wealth shifting and investors increasingly prioritising value, lifestyle, and accessibility, Malaysia is on track to cement its position as a key player in the global luxury property landscape — not just for Chinese HNWIs but for affluent investors worldwide.
