Kuala Lumpur: Starting on December 1, Malaysia has eliminated the need for Indian tourists and business travellers to have a visa. The tourism ministry has confirmed that the visa-free access will remain in effect until December 2024, according to credible sources.
As a result, Malaysia anticipates an increase in incoming tourist arrivals from India of between 30% and 45% per year.
Indian-origin travel operators in Malaysia are expecting tourist arrivals from India to even surpass the pre- pandemic figure of 7,35,309 Indian tourists in 2019. “One of the main surges will be seen in the MICE (Meeting & Incentive Conference, Exhibition) sector, as Malaysia is seen as both strategic and affordable venue for business forays into the Asean region,” A Aruldass, president of the Malaysian Indian Tour & Travel Association, said.
He continued, "In addition to family travel and series tours, this new system of no visa will enhance incentive and corporate travels, superseding the previous provisions of e-entry and visa-on-arrival if visitors entered from Singapore."
The 30-day stay per entrance is included in the visa exemption, and one is allowed to travel as often as they like. The only requirements for travel are a six-month passport validity, confirmed return tickets, evidence of funds, and hotel accommodations. Up till June of this year, Malaysia had 2,83,885 Indian tourists.