Lu Guoxiang, President of the Malaysia-China Business Council, hopes that the mutual visa exemption measures between China and Malaysia, ending by the end of 2025 and 2026 respectively, can be further extended, as these measures contribute to the growth of tourism and economic ties between the two countries.
"Visa exemption will accelerate national economic growth and foreign exchange earnings, which is absolutely something worth continuing for both of us."
He discussed the new year's outlook during an interview with Malaysian National News Agency after attending the 'Chinese New Year Reception' hosted by the Chinese Embassy in Malaysia.
"For the new year's outlook, of course, it's 'better year after year'. This visa exemption measure is set to end by the end of next year, and we hope it will be extended further."
"China has agreed to extend the visa-free policy for Malaysian citizens until the end of 2025. As a reciprocal arrangement, Malaysia will extend the visa-free policy for Chinese citizens until the end of 2026."
He stated that the visa-free convenience encourages more in-depth travel experiences with small package tours, individual travel, and business groups also increasing.
Next year marks Malaysia Tourism Year, and Lu Guoxiang is optimistic about the country's early preparations for tourism promotion, which he believes will help the tourism industry take off.
"According to my preliminary estimate, tourist numbers this year will grow by 30% compared to last year, mainly driven by Chinese tourists, who will account for 60% to 70%."
Lu Guoxiang said that with the frequent high-level visits facilitated by the official friendly relations between Malaysia and China, the subsequent visits by Chinese leaders are also expected to bring more visitors to Malaysia.
According to Dato' Sri Zhang Qingsin, Minister of Tourism, Arts, and Culture, Malaysia received a total of 32.2 million foreign tourists last year.
Ouyang Yujing, the Chinese Ambassador to Malaysia, recently noted that 3.8 million Chinese citizens are expected to visit Malaysia in 2024, more than double that of 2023, with nearly 500 flights between the two countries each week.