KUALA LUMPUR, Dec. 1 (Xinhua) -- The recent opening of a 30-day visa-free facility for Chinese nationals is expected to see Malaysia receive an uptick in inbound Chinese tourists, the Malaysian Association of Hotels (MAH) said on Friday.
China is a lucrative market and a significant contributor to Malaysia's tourism receipts and arrivals, the association said in a statement.
"It is hoped that with this exemption in place, we are able to gain the momentum needed to cement Malaysia's standing as the preferred destination for this discerning market," it said.
"MAH is ready and looking forward to collaborating with the government to ensure the success of this visa exemption initiative. The hotel industry is prepared for the expected surge in Chinese tourists and sees this as an opportunity to significantly boost the recovery rate of Malaysia's hotel sector," it added.
Malaysia would grant 30-day visa-free travel for Chinese citizens starting Dec. 1 this year, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim announced on Sunday, as part of its celebration of the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between Malaysia and China next year. ■
