Malaysia and China extend visa waiver for five years to boost tourism

25-04-25

In a significant step towards strengthening bilateral relations and boosting tourism, Malaysia and China have agreed to extend their mutual visa waiver policy for an additional five years. The agreement, reached during Chinese President Xi Jinping's recent state visit to Malaysia, allows citizens of both countries to travel visa-free for a maximum stay of 90 days.

The decision was formalised by the signing of one of 31 memoranda of understanding (MoU) during Xi Jinping's visit to Malaysia, marking the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two nations. Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim and President Xi witnessed the signing of these agreements, which cover various strategic areas.

Malaysian Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail stressed that the extension of the visa waiver is based on the positive results observed during the trial period started in December 2023. Initially, Malaysia offered a 30-day visa-free stay to Chinese nationals, while China granted 15 days to Malaysians. Subsequently, Malaysia extended its offer to 90 days and requested reciprocity from China. Although China initially maintained the 15-day limit, negotiations culminated in a mutual agreement on 90 days visa-free.

The economic impact of this policy has been remarkable. According to Saifuddin, nearly one million Chinese tourists have visited Malaysia so far this year, with each tourist estimated to spend around 7,000 ringgit (approximately 1,500 euros) during their stay. This has generated a significant boost in sectors such as hospitality, catering and retail.

The extension of the visa waiver also aligns with Malaysia's efforts to revitalise its tourism industry in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. The initiative is part of a broader strategy to attract more international visitors and strengthen cultural and economic ties with China.

In addition to tourism, the visa waiver policy facilitates exchanges in education, business and culture, promoting greater understanding and cooperation between the peoples of the two countries. The measure also reflects China's commitment to expand its openness to the world, having implemented similar policies with other countries to stimulate tourism and the economy.

The extension of the visa waiver between Malaysia and China for an additional five years represents a significant step forward in strengthening their bilateral relations and promoting tourism and economic cooperation. It is hoped that this policy will continue to benefit both countries, strengthening their ties and contributing to mutual economic and cultural growth.

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