Starting July 17, 2025, citizens of the Chinese mainland and Malaysia holding ordinary passports can travel visa-free between the two nations for up to 30 days per visit, with a 90-day cap within any 180-day window.
The new arrangement marks the end of a 19-month trial period that began December 1, 2023. During that time, 3.8 million visitors from the Chinese mainland explored Malaysia in 2024 alone, making the Chinese mainland the largest source of tourists to Malaysia outside ASEAN countries.
On the flip side, the Chinese mainland welcomed 13.64 million visa-free travelers in the first half of 2025, according to the National Immigration Administration. These visitors accounted for 71.2% of all foreign arrivals – a 53.9% jump from the same period last year.
The Chinese mainland has now signed mutual visa exemption agreements with 158 countries and regions, reinforcing its strategy to foster open borders and global connectivity.
By reducing travel frictions, both nations aim to turbocharge tourism, business ties and cultural exchange. From digital nomads chasing new experiences to entrepreneurs forging cross-border collaborations, the streamlined entry promises fresh opportunities.
For young global citizens, this deal opens doors to street-food adventures in Kuala Lumpur, beach hopping in Langkawi and tech conferences in Shenzhen. Business and tech enthusiasts can network at Malaysia's rising startup hubs, while thought leaders and changemakers gain easier access to forums on sustainability and urban innovation.
Whether you're a sports fan catching football matches in Kuala Lumpur's national stadium, a film buff exploring Malaysia's vibrant festival scene, or a digital nomad seeking immersive stays, the visa-free policy aims to make every journey smoother and more inspiring.
As the Chinese mainland and Malaysia deepen their ties, expect more collaborative initiatives – from university exchanges to joint investment in green tech. With borders more open than ever, the journey of a lifetime is just a boarding pass away.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
