China and Malaysia Sign Visa Exemption Agreement

In a joint statement released on 17 April 2025, the People’s Republic of China and Malaysia announced an array of changes and developments between the two countries to strengthen relations. Among these was confirmation of a visa exemptions agreement between Malaysia and China.

President Xi Jinping of the People’s Republic of China initially visited Malaysia on a state visit during mid April 2025 to discuss China-Malaysia bilateral relations as well as international and regional issues.

To strengthen ties between the people of Malaysia and China, both parties formally signed a visa exemption agreement to facilitate two-way personnel exchanges and make travel easier for citizens of both China and Malaysia.

The joint statement confirms that the visa exemption agreement should “enhance exchanges and cooperation in the fields of education, culture, tourism, sports and so on, and enhance mutual understanding and friendly feelings between the two peoples.”

Furthermore, the parties place extra significance on the impact the visa exemption agreement will have on the youth of both countries, expanding opportunities for “the younger generation.”

Since the joint statement was released, the Home Minister of Malaysia, Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution, has confirmed that the visa exemption allowing travelers to visit China from Malaysia (and vice versa) will be extended for 5 years. The current exemption program enables up to 90 days of visa-free travel.