You're right. The restriction on working under MM2H visa does seem silly especially when many successful applicants are highly-qualified individual. But you may work part-time now or volunteer. If your wife wishes to work, the best thing to do is to apply to the Human Resources Ministry seeking special approval for her to work in Malaysia because of her special expertise. If successful, she will be issued a work permit or Employment Pass. She may re-join Malaysia: My Second Home Programme at the end of her work permit.

You should call up the MM2H centre of Motour for consultation.