Terengganu becomes MDEC’s latest digital nomad destination

The Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) has introduced Terengganu as the latest destination under its DE Rantau programme, further solidifying Malaysia’s status as Southeast Asia’s preferred hub for digital nomads.

MDEC’s initiative aims to attract global talent to the country’s scenic and culturally rich locations, with Terengganu offering an ideal blend of serene beaches, rich cultural heritage, and natural beauty.

Launched at Kampung Budaya Terengganu, the event was officiated by Datuk Razali Idris, Terengganu State Executive Council for Tourism, Culture, and Environment, representing Terengganu Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Samsuri Mokhtar.

Also present were the Secretary General of the Ministry of Digital, Fabian Bigar, and Syed Ibrahim Syed Noh, Chairman of MDEC.

Expanding the DE Rantau ecosystem

The DE Rantau programme, launched by MDEC in 2022, has rapidly expanded across Malaysia, with Terengganu joining other popular locations such as Penang, Langkawi, Melaka, Kuala Lumpur, and Perak.

The programme is designed to drive digital adoption and boost tourism by creating an appealing environment for digital nomads.

A key feature of the programme is the DE Rantau Nomad Pass, an immigration facility tailored for foreign digital nomads.

Since its inception, the pass has received over 3,500 applications, with 1,741 approved, underscoring Malaysia’s growing appeal among global remote workers.

Recent enhancements to the DE Rantau Nomad Pass have broadened its accessibility, extending it to non-tech professionals and easing requirements, such as replacing the Bank Guarantee for citizens of China and Bangladesh with a security bond or personal bond.

MDEC has also established a robust ecosystem to support digital nomads, featuring 2,183 DE Rantau Hubs across the country.

These hubs offer strategic, safe locations with high-speed broadband connectivity and work-friendly amenities, ensuring that digital nomads can work effectively while enjoying Malaysia’s diverse landscapes.

Additionally, MDEC has partnered with 16 DE Rantau Ecosystem Partners across various sectors, including transport, tourism, cashless services, healthcare, insurance, and co-working spaces, further enhancing the programme’s appeal.

Terengganu: A unique digital nomad destination

To mark the launch of DE Rantau@Terengganu, MDEC, in collaboration with the Terengganu State Tourism Department, organised a three-day Familiarisation Trip (Fam Trip) for 40 local and foreign digital nomads and their families.

Participants explored major tourist spots in Kuala Terengganu, including the iconic Terengganu Drawbridge, Terengganu River Cruise, Kapas Island, Crystal Mosque, and Payang Market.

The Fam Trip highlighted the region’s potential as a tranquil yet inspiring environment for remote workers.

“MDEC remains committed to creating destinations where digital nomads can thrive, recharge, and find new inspirations while living in Malaysia,” said Syed Ibrahim.

The growing digital nomad community in Malaysia, actively engaged in events and programmes organised by MDEC and its partners, is a testament to the success of DE Rantau and Malaysia’s attractiveness as a digital nomad destination.

For those interested in experiencing Malaysia’s unique digital nomad offerings, applications for the DE Rantau Nomad Pass are open. More information can be found on the MDEC website at www.mdec.my/derantau.

With the inclusion of Terengganu in the DE Rantau programme, MDEC continues to expand the horizons for digital nomads in Malaysia, offering a blend of work-friendly environments and enriching cultural experiences.

As Malaysia solidifies its position as a premier destination for remote work, digital nomads can look forward to more diverse and inspiring locations across the country.