Regular travellers to South-east Asia have a lot of cause for cheer this festive season, as Malaysia has extended its visa exemption for Indian nationals until December 31, 2026. Under this policy, Indian nationals can stay in Malaysia visa-free for up to 30 days by presenting a return flight ticket and proof of sufficient funds, such as a bank statement or credit card, upon arrival.
This decision aligns with Malaysia’s upcoming 2025 ASEAN chairmanship and preparations for Visit Malaysia Year 2026. Datuk Awang Alik Jeman, Secretary-General of the Malaysian Home Ministry, stated that this visa liberalisation initiative is expected to enhance Malaysia’s global appeal as a tourist destination. The move is also seen as a strategic effort to boost travel and economic ties with India and China, two of the world’s most populous countries.
The travel trade industry has welcomed the announcement, predicting a significant boost in travel to Malaysia. Currently, many airlines operate flights between India and Kuala Lumpur, enhancing connectivity and making travel more accessible for Indian tourists. This increased connectivity is expected to further facilitate travel between the two countries, promoting cultural exchange and tourism.
Indian travellers have been vital to Malaysia’s tourism recovery post-pandemic. In 2019, over 735,000 Indian tourists visited Malaysia. Following the introduction of the visa exemption, arrivals surged past one million in 2024. From January to November 2024, Indian tourist arrivals reached 1,009,114, marking a 47% increase over pre-pandemic levels in 2019 and a remarkable 71.7% rise compared to 2023, when 587,703 arrivals were recorded.
The visa exemption has significantly boosted the travel trade industry, with Indian tourists increasingly opting for longer stays of 6 to 15 days and spending 10–15% more than the previous year. Industry data shows that flight bookings to international destinations like Thailand have risen by 70–80%, while domestic travel within India has grown by 60%, leading to fully booked hotels in several regions.
Malaysia is banking on increased tourist spending to support its economic growth. The visa-free policy highlights the country’s commitment to attracting more visitors from key markets, enhancing its reputation as a premier travel destination in Asia. This initiative is expected to further boost Malaysia’s tourism industry and position it as a leading choice for Indian travelers in the coming years.
