Malaysia scraps visa requirements for travellers from China, India
- From December 1, Chinese and Indian nationals may stay in Malaysia for up to 30 days visa-free, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim announced late on Sunday
- It follows Beijing saying on Friday it would allow citizens of six countries including Malaysia to stay in China for up to 15 days visa-free
Chinese and Indian nationals may stay for up to 30 days visa-free, Anwar said in a speech at his People’s Justice Party’s annual congress in Putrajaya late on Sunday.
Malaysia is counting on extra tourist arrivals – and their spending – to support economic growth. Anwar last month announced plans to improve visa facilities next year to encourage the entry of tourists and investors, “especially from India and China”.
“Next year, Malaysia will be celebrating 50 years of diplomatic ties with China,” he said during the congress on Sunday, adding that the visa exemption would be subject to security screening.
“Those [from these countries] with criminal records and risk of violence will not be given the visa,” Anwar said.
Countries whose nationals already enjoy visa exemptions in Malaysia include Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Kuwait, United Arab Emirates, Iran, Turkey and Jordan.