Malaysia Introduces 30-Day Visa-Free Entry for Indian and Chinese Citizens to Boost Tourism
In a bid to promote tourism, Malaysia has announced a 30-day visa-free entry for Indian and Chinese citizens starting from December 1, as declared by Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim. This move follows similar initiatives by Thailand and Sri Lanka in recent weeks, aiming to attract more international visitors.
Prime Minister Ibrahim, who also serves as the Finance Minister, emphasized that the visa exemption is an additional facility to the existing exemptions enjoyed by Gulf nations and other West Asian countries, including Turkiye and Jordan. However, he noted that the waiver is subject to top security screening to ensure the safety and security of the country.
“All tourists and visitors to Malaysia will undergo initial screenings. Security is a different matter. Prime Minister Ibrahim stated that individuals with criminal records or the risk of terrorism will not be allowed to enter. The security clearance falls under the jurisdiction of the security forces and immigration.
Eight ASEAN countries have already been granted 30-day visa-free entry for Indian social visits, tourism, and business purposes. Malaysia aims to attract 16.1 million international tourists with tourism receipts reaching RM 49.3 billion.
India remains one of the top contributors to tourist arrivals in Malaysia. In 2022, Malaysia welcomed 3,24,548 Indian tourists, and in the first quarter of 2023, the number rose to 1,64,566 compared to 13,370 in the same period last year, according to data from the Malaysia Tourism Promotion Board.
For travelers looking to explore Malaysia hassle-free, the newly introduced visa-free entry aligns with offerings from Trip Cabinet Malaysia tour packages, providing an excellent opportunity to experience the diverse cultural and natural attractions the country has to offer. Whether it’s the vibrant city life, pristine beaches, or rich historical sites, the visa exemption opens doors for a seamless and enjoyable travel experience.