KUALA LUMPUR – The minister of tourism, arts, and culture, Dato Sri Tiong King Sing, has strongly defended the government’s 90-day visa-free entry policy for Chinese nationals, urging the public to distinguish between isolated abuse and a sound economic strategy that benefits the nation at large.
In a Facebook statement addressing recent public concerns, Tiong acknowledged that some foreign nationals may attempt to exploit the visa exemption to engage in illegal business activities. However, he argued that such incidents are not unique to Malaysia and should not overshadow the broader value of the policy.
“Illicit income-generating activities by foreigners are a global issue. We must remember that Malaysians too may engage in such acts abroad,” said Tiong. “Instead of attacking the visa policy, our energy should be directed towards improving enforcement.”
The 90-day visa exemption, introduced to boost post-pandemic recovery in tourism and service sectors, has already contributed to positive economic momentum. According to Tiong, businesses in hospitality, logistics, food and beverage, and travel services have reported noticeable upticks in activity since the policy came into effect.
“The policy has infused fresh energy into our economy,” Tiong noted. “Greater travel convenience means a wider customer base for local businesses. The move is a step forward, not backward.”
He urged critics, particularly NGOs and associations, to avoid politicising or distorting government policies made in good faith. He pointed out that formulating a national policy requires rigorous data analysis, inter-agency coordination, and thorough deliberation.
“Blanket criticisms based on isolated cases only serve to devalue the tireless efforts of those who’ve worked to bring our economy back from the brink,” he said.
Tiong did not deny that a small number of foreign visitors might take advantage of the visa waiver to earn untaxed income. However, he stressed that the appropriate response is targeted enforcement by immigration and law enforcement agencies, not scrapping the entire policy.
He called for a united front between authorities and the public, encouraging citizens to report wrongdoing and support efforts to address these abuses constructively.
Tiong also expressed concern over a recently circulated TikTok video that falsely suggested the visa-free policy might be revoked due to a surge of Chinese tourists. The video, he said, was selectively edited and had stirred unnecessary public unease.
“I have contacted the Chinese Embassy to request their cooperation in investigating the video and clarifying the truth. The issue lies with those exploiting loopholes, not with the policy itself,” he explained.
Looking ahead to Visit Malaysia Year 2026, Tiong emphasised that tourism is a cornerstone of national recovery, with the visa exemption being a key facilitator. He reiterated that the government is open to feedback but urged all parties to approach the issue with clarity, balance, and responsibility.
“Let us not allow misinformation or opportunism to derail progress. We should be focused on building, not blaming.” -MalayaDailyToday
