Asia's most loved country defends visa-free extension for Chinese tourists

In a Facebook post, Tiong acknowledged that some individuals might exploit the visa-free system to engage in unauthorized business activities but argued that such cases should not undermine policies aimed at stimulating Malaysia's economic growth.

He said the visa exemption has significantly contributed to growth in sectors such as food and beverage, hospitality, and services, Free Malaysia Today reported.

"The issue of foreigners engaging in illegal income activities is not unique to Malaysia; it is a global challenge. Instead of questioning the visa exemption, we must focus on strengthening enforcement and monitoring to prevent misuse," he added.

Malaysia recently announced the extension of its visa exemption for Chinese travelers for an additional five years, with the possibility of extending it for another five years, as reported by Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail, according to Bernama.

Malaysia, named Asia's most loved country by American finance website Insider Monkey, introduced a 30-day visa-free entry policy for Chinese citizens in December 2023, which had since been extended through 2026.

In 2024, Malaysia welcomed 3.29 million Chinese tourists, an increase from the previous year, making China the third-largest source of visitors after Singapore and Indonesia.

In the first two months of 2025, China remained the second-largest source of visitors to Malaysia, with nearly one million arrivals.