Visa waiver for China group tourists to Malaysia from Oct 1, 2015

From Oct 1, group tourists from China travelling to Malaysia will be granted a temporary social pass or visa exemption for 15 days.

Tourism Malaysia chairman Wee Choo Keong said that after a long wait of three months, the Home Ministry finally agreed to the move on late Wednesday evening.

“Tourism Malaysia has been formally informed that the ministry had agreed to waive the requirement of visa for group tourists from China effective Oct 1, subject to terms and conditions.

“Among the conditions are visa-free or temporary social pass will only be granted to tourists from China travelling with tour operators registered with the Tourism and Culture Ministry.

“The group must consist of at least 20 people with the temporary social pass being limited to 15 days for each entry into Malaysia and no extension will be granted,” said Wee in a statement.

Wee added that the temporary social pass will only be granted for those traveling on a direct flight from China to Malaysia and with return flight tickets.

“At the same time, the holders will not be allowed to apply for other permits or passes and the approved entry points are at KLIA and KLIA2 as well as airports in Penang, Senai, Kuching, Kota Kinabalu and Langkawi,” he said.

“In the event that any tourist under this category fails to return or violates any conditions or regulations set by the ministry, the tour operator will be fined RM1,500 per tourist,” he said.