“Earning illegal income abroad is a global issue” – Tourism Minister Defends Visa-Free Entry for Chinese Nationals

Tourism Minister, Dato’ Seri Tiong King Sing, has responded to concerns over the abuse of the 90-day visa exemption for Chinese nationals, where a minority of them might take things for granted and engage in business unlawfully.

“Malaysians might be doing the same abroad”

In a statement posted on his Facebook, Tiong said scrapping the visa will not work in eliminating the concerns, but the law enforcers and the public must focus on the enforcement. He also said that the concern of “foreigners earning income illegally” is a global challenge, highlighting that even Malaysians do the same while overseas.

“We must also acknowledge the possibility that our own citizens may be involved in similar activities abroad.”

“We should focus on how we can strengthen and monitor the enforcement to effectively curb the involvement of foreigners in illegal activities in Malaysia.”

The Minister of Tourism also defended the 90-day visa-free policy for Chinese nationals, saying that it not only boosts the economy but also gives opportunities for various industries to bloom. For instance, Tiong highlighted that industries like food & beverage, hospitality, logistics, and service have all seen major improvements, thanks to the convenience for international tourists.

Strict action will be taken against those who violate the laws

Tiong also acknowledged the possibility that a small portion of international tourists may abuse the convenience and make side income illegally before leaving the country without paying taxes, and he shared what we had in mind to counter these “side effects”.

“Step up monitoring effects, take strict action againts those who violate the laws. The public must also help in reporting the wrongdoings,” Tiong said.

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He added that instead of nitpicking on the government’s good intentions, NGOs and other associations should not twist the government’s policy into something negative. This reminder came after Tiong came across a viral TikTok post that claimed the arrival of Chinese nationals in Malaysia en masse might prompt the Malaysian government to revoke the granted visa-free entry.

What do you think of Tiong’s take on this matter?

Also read: “This is bullying!” – Chinese Tourists Finish Whole Durian But Want Refund Because ‘It Tastes Bad’