Tourism, arts and culture minister Tiong King Sing has defended Malaysia’s 90-day visa-free entry for Chinese nationals, stressing the need for stronger enforcement instead of abandoning a policy that boosts the economy.
In a Facebook post, Tiong acknowledged that a few individuals may exploit the visa-free system to conduct unauthorised business activities but said such cases should not be used to undermine policies designed to stimulate economic growth in Malaysia.
Stating that the increased travel convenience for Chinese nationals has translated into more business opportunities and broader customer bases for local entrepreneurs, he said the visa exemption has significantly contributed to growth in the food and beverage, hospitality, logistics and service industries.
Tiong also cautioned NGOs and associations against politicising or misrepresenting government policies, especially those drafted after rigorous research and cross-agency collaboration.
“Blanket criticisms that dismiss such initiatives are irresponsible. They undermine the hard work and intentions behind our policymaking process,” he said.
“The issue of foreigners earning income illegally is not unique to Malaysia; it is a global challenge.
“Instead of casting doubt on the visa exemption, we must concentrate our efforts on enhancing enforcement and monitoring to curb misuse.
“Enforcement agencies must step up efforts and take firm action against lawbreakers. The public also plays a role by reporting any wrongdoing to the authorities,” he said.
Malaysians also enjoy visa-free stay in China for 90 days
Malaysian citizens will also soon be able to enjoy visa-free entry to China for a cumulative stay of up to 90 days.
Both countries are completing the necessary domestic procedures under a mutual visa exemption agreement to enable this.
Bernama reported the Chinese embassy in Malaysia as saying the agreement will be in force for five years and will be automatically extended for another five years once the first period ends.
The embassy said the agreement stipulates a maximum cumulative visa-free stay of no more than 90 days within any 180-day period.
The embassy said the 90-day period does not include the days spent in China under visa, residence permit and other visa documents, or the Apec Business Travel Card.
Visa-free entry will not be granted to any foreigner who has already stayed 90 days within a 180-day period.
“Chinese citizens going to Malaysia will follow the same rules.
“We are confident this agreement will further promote people-to-people exchanges, enhance mutual understanding and deepen multi-sector cooperation between both countries and people,” it said.
The agreement to extend visa exemptions between China and Malaysia was exchanged during Chinese president Xi Jinping’s state visit here last month.
The extension expands upon Malaysia’s visa liberalisation initiative for travellers from China and India, implemented on Dec 1, 2023.
