PUTRAJAYA: Malaysia's second-place ranking in the world for passport strength is an achievement that reflects global confidence in the stability, security and integrity of the country's systems, said Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail.
He said the achievement also brought tangible benefits to the people through wider access to international travel, while opening up more opportunities in education, careers, business and investment.
"Under the Madani Economy framework, among the country's key focuses is to raise the country's growth ceiling by expanding its international reach, strengthening its diplomatic standing and enhancing Malaysia's competitiveness on the world stage,” he said in a Facebook post today.
Saifuddin Nasution said the country needed to have strong, credible and trusted systems to ensure that the doors to global opportunities remained wide open to Malaysians.
The Malaysian passport climbed to second spot in The Passport Index Global Ranking 2026, up from third place the previous year.
Saifuddin Nasution also said Malaysian passport holders now have access to 175 destinations worldwide, providing them with greater mobility.
He said the achievement was the result of continuous efforts by the Home Ministry (KDN) and the Immigration Department (JIM) to ensure that the country's immigration system and travel documents continued to maintain high standards of integrity and security.
"KDN and JIM will safeguard the integrity of Malaysian passports and travel documents so that they continue to be respected and trusted internationally,” he said.
"In terms of business growth and investment, it makes it easier for Malaysian entrepreneurs to explore new markets, build international business networks and create more economic opportunities, ultimately benefiting families and the country,” he said.
The Home Minister said this achievement should serve as an impetus for KDN and JIM to continue strengthening integrity, improving efficiency and enhancing the quality of services provided to the people. - Bernama
