Malaysia Tourism Surges with International Tourists, Targeting Forty Five Million Visitors Especially From China And India’s Ever-Expanding Travel Markets

Published on April 26, 2025

Malaysia is setting its sights on welcoming 45 million international visitors in 2025, marking a bold and strategic leap forward in its tourism ambitions. This target reflects a 10% increase from the previous year, fueled by significant growth from key markets, especially China and India. The introduction of a 30-day visa-free entry policy for citizens of these countries, alongside enhanced tourism infrastructure and government support, has played a crucial role in this surge. As a result, Malaysia is not only aiming to recover but to surpass pre-pandemic tourism levels, with the influx from China and India expected to be the primary drivers of this impressive growth.

Malaysia, recognized as Asia’s most beloved country, aims to welcome 45 million international visitors in 2025, representing a 10% rise from the previous year’s figures. This ambitious target is largely driven by the surge in visitors from China and India.

To achieve this goal, collaboration across the tourism sector, involving product operators, local governments, and industry stakeholders, will be key to enhancing Malaysia’s appeal.

By February 2025, Malaysia saw a remarkable 31.3% increase in arrivals, with 6.7 million visitors compared to 5.1 million during the same period last year. The primary contributors to this growth have been travelers from Singapore, China, and India.

In December 2023, Malaysia introduced a 30-day visa-free entry for citizens from China and India, a policy set to remain in effect until 2026, further boosting visitor numbers.

Malaysia is aiming for 45 million international visitors in 2025, driven by strong growth from China and India, bolstered by visa-free entry policies and enhanced tourism infrastructure. This ambitious target reflects a 10% increase from the previous year.

With a target of 45 million, Malaysia’s goal surpasses Thailand’s forecast of 38 to 39 million foreign visitors for the year.