OVER four million tourists from China and more than one million from India have visited Malaysia since the implementation of the 30-day visa-free policy, according to the Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry.
Between December 2023 and December last year, Malaysia recorded 4,145,535 arrivals from China and 1,464,499 from India under the visa-free programme.
“This measure has generated revenue for the country and ensured Malaysia remains as a key player in various sectors, including investment, trade and tourism on the international stage,” the ministry stated in a parliamentary written reply dated March 5.
“This shows that the visa-free policy for countries with potential has helped spur the arrival of tourists to Malaysia,” it said.
The ministry was responding to a question from Datuk Mas Ermieyati Samsudin (PN-Masjid Tanah) on the status of the 30-day visa-free policy for Chinese and Indian citizens and the number of tourist arrivals under the programme.
On Dec 20, 2024, Home Ministry secretary-general Datuk Awang Alik Jeman announced an extension of the visa exemption for Indian nationals until Dec 31, 2026.
He said this aligns with Malaysia’s Asean chairmanship and preparations for Visit Malaysia 2026.
The visa liberalisation plan, in effect since Dec 1, 2023, aims to boost the country’s economy and tourism sectors while maintaining national security, he was reported as saying.
“This initiative is part of broader efforts to enhance Malaysia’s appeal as a travel destination while ensuring the safety and security of the nation,” he said.
