‘Permanent visa-free travel could further strengthen ties’

PETALING JAYA: China’s decision to give Malaysians visa-free entry for 30 days will strengthen connections between the people of both countries and unlock new opportunities for mutual benefit, say trade groups.

Some even believe the countries should go one step further and abolish the need for visa to travel between the two nations.

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China’s latest move, say business chamber groups, will help foster business and promote cultural and tourism exchanges.

The increased duration will also give businesses and tourists ample time to conduct business networking and explore the country.

Associated Chinese Chambers of Commerce and Industry of Malaysia (ACCCIM) president Tan Sri Low Kian Chuan believes the extension will serve to promote exchanges between people and further facilitate business and cultural relationships.

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“The Malaysia-China relationship has flourished over the years, in economic and trade ties and in cultural exchanges. China has also been Malaysia’s largest trading partner for 15 consecutive years since 2009,” he said.

ACCCIM believes the governments should now talk about the establishment of a permanent visa-free policy.

Malaysia Inbound Chinese Association president Datuk Dr Angie Ng said that since the mutual visa-exemption agreement took effect last November – allowing Malaysians to stay in China for 15 days and Chinese tourists to stay in Malaysia for 30 days – there has been a noticeable increase in tourism development.

“With the extended duration, tourism operators can plan itineraries ranging from 16 to 21 days,” she said.

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Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi announced the agreement to extend visa-free travel for Malaysians in China.

“Both sides have agreed, and the implementation will follow after the agreement is signed,” he said.