In a bid to boost the economy, tourism sector and to promote art and culture of Malaysia, Malaysian Prime Minister Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamad has recently launched the ‘Visit Malaysia 2020’ (VMY2020) with the theme ‘Visit Truly Asia Malaysia 2020’. With the move, the government aims to target 30 million international tourists from China and India for the year 2020.
Under the ‘Visit Malaysia 2020’ initiative, Indian Passport Holders can now travel to Malaysia for up to 15 days and are exempted from the requirement of Visa. However, tourists will have to register themselves for the same using the electronic travel registration and information (eNTRI) system. They can also get themselves registered through a travel agency registered with the Malaysian Mission Office in India. Once the process of registration is finished, Indian passport holders can travel to Malaysia within 3 months.
The 15 days visa-free period cannot be extended further but those who wish to explore the Southeast Asian country again can re-enter after 45 days from the date of leaving it. Tourists might have to produce proof of sufficient cash for expenses, return ticket and their travel itinerary to the concerned authorities. The entry and exit to/from Malaysia would be done through authorized airports or immigration control posts. Malaysian government expects a 7% growth in the tourism industry of the country with this scheme.
