Kuala Lumpur: Malaysia said it has introduced a new point system when considering applications by foreigners seeking entry permit to the country.
Home Minister Hishammuddin Hussein said the system would enable foreigners, who have Malaysians spouses, or who are specialists, highly-skilled professionals or investors who have invested more than USD 3 million to get special entry consideration.
Under the new system, applications were considered based on points given to various factors including age, academic qualifications and relationship with Malaysian citizens, he said, adding it is similar to the one practised in Australia, Canada and the UK.
Applicants, who obtained 65 points and above, would be considered. However, all applications are subjected to security vetting by the police, Hishammuddin said.
The immigration director had been given responsibility to consider applications for all forms of entry permits, he said, adding these changes had been put into practice since July 15.
Previously, the director considered only applications for wives and children of citizens aged below six years.
PTI
First Published: Friday, July 30, 2010, 16:26