Updates from MDEC (Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation)

MDEC has announced new process improvements and updates on 19 Oct 2017 which is due to take effect on 15 Nov 2017. There are four updates in total. Two of which are pretty self-explanatory and the other two requiring clarification.

 

The MDEC updates are appended below and we thought we’d share our insights at the same time (highlighted in blue for easy identification).

Please note our insights / comments are just that i.e. our views. It does not in any way reflect or imply those of the Authorities.

1.   NEW PROCESSING TIMES

A)   MDEC will include the endorsement process as part of their service

• this is currently done by the Immigration Unit in MDEC. We believe the Immigration Unit will still process this at the MDEC premises itself but it may likely be controlled by MDEC as the “contact” point.

B)   The new processes will include the approval from both MDEC and the Immigration Department of Malaysia (IDM) with SLA of seven (7) working days and the endorsement of passes by IDM with SLA of two (2) working days. The SLA for company assessment will remain unchanged at one (1) month

Illustration below as provided by MDEC

• it may appear that MDEC is combining both Stage 1 and Stage 2 approvals to the SLA of 7 working days. Although from their illustration above, it does contradict somewhat as they seem to only be making a comparison of the Stage 1 process which is 5 working days and will now be “improved” to 7 working days (appearing to be longer time than the original actually). It is also still open to questions as to whether this change will affect ICT companies more or MSC status companies. We are seeking clarification.

C)   Company Assessment process remains at 1 month – we believe the “assessment” here could mean “Registration of the Company with the Authorities”. Similarly, we have sought clarification.

2.   ONLINE PAYMENT

All payments to MDEC and Immigration must be made online. Banker’s cheque/bank draft will no longer be accepted.

3.   IMPROVED WEBSITE

MDEC has enhanced its website designed for better user experience www.expats.com.my

4. REVISED MDEC CHARGES

In view of the process and service enhancements in the eXpats system, MDEC is revising the charges as follows (table information direct from MDEC)

For further enquires, feel free to reach out to your friendly neighborhood partner, The Corporate Lab at [email protected] or call +6012-215 7424.