KUALA LUMPUR: The visa exemption for Indian nationals has resulted in a 223% increase in visitors from India, says Immigration Department director-general Datuk Zakaria Shaaban.

Welcoming the government’s move to extend the visa exemption initiative until Dec 31, 2026, he said 916,821 Indian visitors had entered Malaysia between Dec 1, 2023, and Dec 1 this year.

This marked a significant rise from 283,885 visitors last year.

“Such an increase has spurred the local business industry. Tourism arrivals not only generate income but also create job opportunities for Malaysians,” Zakaria said in a statement.

To support the initiative, he said the department would strengthen its monitoring and enforcement measures, similar to the actions taken at the start of the programme last year.

“Among the measures that have been taken are the formation of a special squad to monitor the exit movements of visitors from China and India, inspections at locations with many foreigners, enforcing strict procedures on entry refusal and ensuring the adherence to filling up the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card,” he said.

Zakaria also reassured that security checks would continue to be carried out upon arrival, with visitors required to show proof of return tickets and valid accommodation bookings such as hotel reservations.

“We will not compromise on existing security aspects and are committed to improving the smooth movement of travellers in and out of the country,” he added.

The government had earlier announced that the visa exemption for Indian nationals would be extended until Dec 31, 2026.

In a statement on Friday, Home Ministry secretary-general Datuk Awang Alik Jeman said the extension was in line with Malaysia’s preparations for its Asean chairmanship and the Visit Malaysia Year 2026 campaign.

He also confirmed that a similar visa exemption had been granted to Chinese nationals until the same date.

He said the visa liberalisation plan, introduced on Dec 1, 2023, aims to boost Malaysia’s economic and tourism sectors while maintaining national security.

“As part of this plan, a 30-day visa exemption is granted to nationals of the People’s Republic of China and India.

“This initiative is part of broader efforts to enhance Malaysia’s appeal as a travel destination while ensuring the safety and security of the nation,” he added.

https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2024/12/22/huge-surge-in-tourists-from-india