Malaysia announces ''visa on arrival'' for Indians

Mumbai, Sep 22 (UNI) Deputy Director General of Tourism Malaysia Razali Mohd Daud today announced ''visa on arrival for Indians'' visiting Malaysia for tourism purposes.

''Indians can utilise this facility from six different points of entry to the country which would be valid for a period of maximum 30 days at a cost of Ringit Malaysia 100 as part of entry visa,'' Mr Daud told at a press conference here today.

''It is imperative to establish relaxed visa procedures to spur intra-regional travel and bolster tourism. Hassle-free environment would go a long way in strengthening the relations and long-term commitment to Indian market,'' he added.

The Deputy Director General is on a visit to India from September 21 to 30 to promote Meeting Incentive Conferences and Exhibitions (MICE).

The campaign ''Meet and Experience Malaysia -- Truly Asia'' forms part of the ''Visit Malaysia Year 2007'' promotion.

''The total Indian conference arrivals in 2005 was 23,302 as compared to 18,801 in 2004 and it would reach to 50,000 by the year ending 2007,'' Mr Daud said.

The Malaysian Ministry of Tourism envisages that 350,000 Indians would visit Malaysia by next year.

''Indians are one of the largest spenders in Malaysia with the total tourism receipts from India surging by over 72 per cent in the year 2005 from the previous year to close at RM 557.5 million,'' he informed.

Malaysia would organise over 240 events during the ''Visit Malaysia Year 2007''. Fifty of them will represent the best that Malaysia has to offer, Mr Daud said, adding ''This has been done in line with the theme 'Celebrating 50 years of Nationhood' and plays on the 50 numeral which denotes the golden jubilee of country's independence''.

UNI JM PM KD VV1732