China to extend visa exemption for Malaysian tourists

 

China has agreed to extend visa exemption for Malaysian tourists from 15 to 30 days, said Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.

He announced this during the celebration of the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Malaysia and China in Beijing today.

“During my meeting with Premier Li Qiang yesterday, one of the subjects raised was to extend visa exemption for Malaysian tourists to China from 15 to 30 days. Malaysia had previously offered Chinese tourists 30 days of visa-free travel.

“I would like to announce that both sides have agreed and this will be implemented after the agreement is signed,” he said.

Vice-Premier Ding Xuexiang (above, right) was also present at the ceremony held at Diaoyutai State Guesthouse.

Zahid also highlighted that Malaysia-China collaboration now extends beyond politics and economics to include education, culture, tourism, and people-to-people exchanges, strengthening the bonds between both societies.

“However, there remains ample opportunity for both sides to consolidate further and expand the excellent ties,” he added.

Zahid, who is also rural and regional development minister, is in his first official visit to the republic from May 22 till tomorrow at the invitation of Ding.

Greater emphasis on TVET

Separately, Zahid in an interview with Bernama Radio said Malaysia plans to increase the supply of professional labour to meet the needs of Chinese companies that wish to invest in the country.

For that purpose, he said the emphasis on the field of vocational education and training and technical (TVET) for local people will be increased, in line with the sophistication of Chinese technological products such as the automotive and telecommunications industries.

“I see many opportunities such as in the field of infrastructure and some other areas that we should explore, and since China is very interested in investing in Malaysia, it will not only open up job opportunities but also the sharing of new knowledge and technology to the country,” he said.

Zahid also said that the aspect of cooperation with China will also be enhanced through the production of halal products including food, pharmaceuticals and cosmetics.

- Bernama