SEPANG: The Expatriate Satellite Centre (ESC) at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) has issued 10,703 passes this year, a significant increase from the 5,000 passes issued last year.

Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail said 6,625 passes had been issued as of July 21.

He said this rise demonstrates Malaysia's growing appeal as a prime destination for multinational companies and investors looking to expand their operations.

"Overall, 22,462 immigration passes have been issued through the ESC at KLIA Terminals 1 and 2, with an average of 714 passes confirmed monthly.

"The increase in expatriate numbers show Malaysia has become a preferred destination for multinational companies and investors.

"This not only positively impacts the national economy but also generates job opportunities," he told the press after launching the Expatriate Satellite Centre (ESC) at KLIA Terminal 2 here today.

Since its entire operation began on June 4, the ESC at KLIA Terminal 2 has been running 24 hours a day with a team of four officers on rotating shifts.

He added that the ESC reflects the Immigration Department's commitment, in collaboration with TalentCorp and its subsidiary MYXpats, to streamlining immigration processes and contributing to national development.

"For the record, the most significant number of expatriates comes from India, European countries, and China, working in education, engineering, manufacturing, and oil and gas sectors.

"I had the chance to speak with two expatriates from Scotland and India, and they confirmed that the process for obtaining expatriate passes is very smooth," he said.

The ESC issues immigration passes for expatriates, professionals, and their dependents, allowing them to live and work in Malaysia immediately, thus bypassing the previous 30-day waiting period.

The types of passes issued include Employment Pass (EP), Dependent Pass (DP), Specialist Visit Pass (PLIK), Long-Term Social Visit Pass (PLS), Talent Resident Pass (RP), and Dependent Talent Resident Pass.

Also present at the launch were the Immigration Department director-general, Datuk Ruslin Jusoh, and representatives from international business chambers in Malaysia.

https://www.nst.com.my/news/nation/2024/07/1080622/expatriate-passes-surge-klias-esc-reflecting-malaysias-rising-appeal