The Malaysian government’s decision to implement a 30-day visa-free travel program for citizens of China and India has been seen as a positive move for the hotel industry by the Malaysian Association of Hotels (MAH).
MAH believes that this initiative offers a great opportunity for Malaysia to promote itself and attract tourists from these two countries, especially in anticipation of Visit Malaysia Year 2026 (VMY2026).
The hoteliers have been preparing for the expected increase in Chinese and Indian tourists, and see this decision as a significant opportunity to enhance the recovery of Malaysia’s hotel industry.
“The decision strategically positions Malaysia to capture a substantial market share from two of the most lucrative global markets, China and India,” said MAH in a statement on Friday (Dec 1).
Both China and India have historically been important contributors to Malaysia’s tourism receipts and arrivals, according to MAH.
On Nov 27, Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail announced that the government would reinforce the visa liberalisation plan with integrated security and enforcement measures for tourists from China and India.
This move is in line with Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s announcement on Nov 26, allowing 30-day visa-free travel for visitors from China and India to Malaysia from Dec 1, marking the 50th year of the strategic partnership between Malaysia and China.
MAH expressed hope that this exemption would provide the momentum needed for hoteliers to establish Malaysia as the preferred destination for these discerning markets.
The decision also positions Malaysia to capture a significant market share from two of the most lucrative markets globally, China and India,” it added.
As the nation embarked on this new phase of visa-free travel, MAH said it remained committed to supporting initiatives contributing to the growth and recovery of Malaysia’s tourism and hospitality sectors.
