Kuala Lumpur: In a bid to boost tourism and prepare for upcoming major events, Malaysia has extended its visa exemption program for Indian nationals until December 31, 2026. The announcement was made by Home Ministry Secretary-General Datuk Awang Alik Jeman, signaling a continued effort to promote Malaysia as a prime travel destination.
The visa exemption initiative, which was initially launched on December 1, 2023, as part of a broader visa liberalisation effort, also applies to Chinese nationals. Both India and China, being significant source markets for tourism, are now included in the program’s extended validity.
Strengthening Tourism and Economic Growth
This visa-free entry extension is part of Malaysia’s larger strategy to attract more tourists and bolster its economy. The initiative is particularly focused on the lead-up to Malaysia’s 2025 ASEAN Chairmanship and the highly anticipated Visit Malaysia Year 2026. By easing entry requirements for visitors, Malaysia aims to boost its international tourism numbers while ensuring that border security remains a top priority.
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A Secure and Welcoming Destination
Datuk Awang Alik Jeman emphasized that the 30-day visa exemption for Indian and Chinese nationals is designed not only to position Malaysia as a top tourist destination but also to uphold national security standards. The government is committed to balancing tourism growth with stringent security measures to safeguard the country’s borders.
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