Hong Kong passport-holders are set to enjoy longer visa-free stays in Malaysia, as Malaysia has agreed to extend the duration from 30 days to 90 days. This significant development comes as the Chief Executive of Hong Kong, John Lee, aims to strengthen connections with Southeast Asian nations.
Sources with direct knowledge of the matter revealed that Malaysia has acceded to the request from the Hong Kong government to increase the visa-free stay period. An official announcement on this matter is anticipated, with Thursday being a possible date for the announcement.
As part of a week-long tour of the region, Chief Executive John Lee is expected to visit Malaysia, underlining the importance of forging stronger ties with Southeast Asian countries.
This extension of visa-free travel is a reciprocal measure, as Malaysians currently enjoy 90-day visa-free travel to Hong Kong. It represents an effort to enhance bilateral relations between the two regions.
The request for the extension was made by the Hong Kong government to Malaysia’s authorities. However, when approached for comments, the Malaysian Home Ministry did not respond to Bloomberg News’ multiple calls, and the Hong Kong government’s representative also remained silent on the matter.
Chief Executive John Lee’s visit to Southeast Asia has multiple purposes. Besides strengthening Hong Kong’s status as an international financial hub, he seeks to attract investment opportunities to the city. Furthermore, he aims to garner support for Hong Kong’s bid to join the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), an economic partnership formed under China’s leadership.
The potential visa-free extension by Malaysia to Hong Kong passport-holders presents a diplomatic triumph for Chief Executive John Lee. It demonstrates Hong Kong’s efforts to build stronger bonds with Southeast Asian nations amid increasing concerns in Western capitals over civil liberties in the city following the enactment of China’s national security law in 2020.
In light of these concerns, Hong Kong has been pivoting towards establishing stronger ties with countries in the Middle East and Southeast Asia, which have not publicly criticized the city for its actions concerning pro-democracy activists and groups.
As we await the official announcement, this news showcases the ongoing efforts of Hong Kong’s government to strengthen international relations and create more opportunities for its citizens and businesses.