“They come here & never leave” – M’sians React to Last Year’s 130% Surge in Chinese Tourists

The arrival of tourists from China to Malaysia increased to 3,725,894 in 2024, which is equivalent to a rise of 130.9 per cent year-on-year, according to the Ministry of Tourism, Arts, and Culture of Malaysia (MOTAC).

This increase is driven by the continuation of the visa-free policy for Chinese citizens

The visa-free policy is said to run until December 2026.

In an official statement by MOTAC, the enhanced air connectivity between Malaysia and China is also expected to accelerate the increase of Chinese tourists in the country.

The China Eastern Airlines launched its inaugural flight connecting Xi’an, the capital of Shaanxi Province in northwest China, to Kuala Lumpur, via the city of Kunming in southwest China, on Sunday (February 23).

“Xi’an serves as an important urban hub in northwest China, witnessing rapid population growth, particularly among middle-class families with increased disposable income,” MOTAC said in its statement.

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“Once they come in, they don’t go back”

On the other hand, many Malaysians did not respond positively towards the increase of Chinese tourists here, with some of them highlighting crime involving foreigners.

“And then, they don’t go home anymore. And then, they get themselves an identification card (IC).

“They come in and they don’t go back, and they commit crimes here.”

“Don’t be too excited with the crowds of foreign tourists. History has proven that foreigners have the potential to turn Malaysia into their criminal hub, which can be tough to crack down.”

Another user commented on the virus that was just declared in the country, saying,

“Why are they allowed to enter Malaysia?”

“Great. The virus comes in and spreads, just like last time. When the virus is gone, they bring in another one. They don’t learn their lesson.”

What do you think of the growth?

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