9-9-2024 (SHANGHAI) Malaysia is set to propose an extension of the visa-free stay period for its citizens visiting China. This key issue will be at the forefront of discussions during a high-level meeting between Malaysian and Chinese officials on the sidelines of the Global Public Security Cooperation Forum in Lianyungang city, Jiangsu province.
Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail revealed to Malaysian journalists that Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi will meet with China’s Minister of Public Security, Wong Xiaohong, to discuss this matter among other bilateral issues.
Currently, China allows Malaysians a 15-day visa-free stay for business, tourism, family visits, and transit purposes, a policy set to expire on 31 December 2025. Malaysia, on the other hand, offers Chinese visitors a more generous 30-day visa exemption until the end of 2026.
“We had previously proposed a reciprocal arrangement, suggesting China extend the visa-free period for Malaysians from 15 to 30 days,” Saifuddin explained. “We intend to revisit this proposal during today’s meeting.”
The Malaysian delegation is also keen on discussing the possibility of extending China’s visa-free exemption period for Malaysians beyond its current expiration date of 31 December 2025, potentially aligning it with Malaysia’s offer to Chinese nationals, which runs until 31 December 2026.
While no decisions have been finalised, Saifuddin expressed optimism about the potential outcomes of the meeting. “We are hopeful for a positive response from our Chinese counterparts,” he stated.
This push for extended visa-free travel comes as part of Malaysia’s broader strategy to enhance people-to-people exchanges and foster closer ties with China, its largest trading partner. The move could significantly boost tourism and business travel between the two nations, contributing to economic growth and cultural understanding.
The Global Public Security Cooperation Forum, where these discussions will take place, is a Chinese initiative launched in 2015. It serves as a platform for international dialogue and cooperation, centred around the theme “Cooperative Security for Common Prosperity”. The forum provides an ideal setting for such bilateral talks, as it brings together key figures in global security and international relations.
