Malaysians on visa-free travel: The best way to understand China is to visit it

(ECNS) -- "We just returned to Kuala Lumpur with a tour group from China at 3:00 a.m.," said Ng Chong Shuo, Managing Director of Malaysia's Cheng Yi Travel & Tours. Despite the early hours, he showed no signs of fatigue—only excitement. "The introduction of visa-free policies has brought huge economic benefits to our tourism industry."

Since China and Malaysia implemented improved visa measures on December 1, 2023, travel between these two countries has now become far easier for tourists. So with Malaysians now able to visit China on a whim, Ng Chong Shuo found himself facing a "good problem" — one where his agency now needed to offer more unique and novel travel experiences for the growing demand of tourists.

Ng explained that as travel to China becomes more convenient for travelers, many Malaysians are now making repeated visits after enjoying it so much. Yet, traditional sightseeing tours are no longer enough; instead, travelers are seeking more immersive experiences.

One particularly popular option is tours focused on China's latest technology. Last year, Ng organized multiple groups to visit leading Chinese tech companies like BYD and Alibaba, allowing tourists to experience innovations in electric vehicles and artificial intelligence firsthand.

Winnie, a staff member at Cheng Yi Travel & Tours, was most impressed by the vastness and automation of the BYD industrial park, saying how "there were automated machines and driverless vehicles everywhere—it really felt like the future," she said.

Mr. Wen, a Kuala Lumpur resident, shared that he traveled to China for the fourth time last year, spending two days in Gubei Water Town near Beijing, where this time he enjoyed a slower, more immersive travel experience there.

Ng also observed that visa-free entry has not only increased the number of Chinese tourists visiting Malaysia but also changed the way they travel. More Chinese visitors are now exploring Malaysia's diverse cultures and local cuisine. He chuckled, admitting that many of the popular tourist spots in his own country were actually introduced to him by Chinese tourists.

Loke Siew Fook, Malaysia's Minister of Transport, told China News Service that in the first year of the visa-free policy, approximately 4 million Chinese tourists visited Malaysia. "This is a significant boost to our tourism industry and economy," he said, adding that Malaysia could serve as a gateway for Chinese tourists traveling to Thailand, Singapore, and Indonesia.

Loke also shared that his own family often visits China now, a trend common among many Malaysian households. He believes the new visa-free policy not only makes travel easier but more young Malaysians can now better understand China's development and culture.

"The best way to understand China is to visit China," Loke said, adding that "when you go there, you expand your horizons and gain new knowledge about the country." 
(By Zhao Li)