Andaman Nicobar : Good News for Andaman Tourism Industry and Citizens of Malaysia

Reporte – JOHN WILBERT ,   Port Blair,   Andaman Nicobar , July 4, 2024:

In a significant boost to the tourism sector, India has announced a waiver on the visa fee for the 30-day e-Tourist visa with double entry for Malaysian nationals. This initiative, effective until June 30, 2025, aims to enhance tourist arrivals and strengthen bilateral ties between India and Malaysia. The Indian High Commission announced this new measure through an official press release.

Previously, Malaysians had to pay RM465 (approximately Rs 8,186) for an e-visa. The waiver now makes the e-Tourist visa free of charge, although other e-visa categories such as e-Business, e-Conference, e-Medical, e-Medical Attendant, e-Ayush, and e-Emergency will continue to incur fees as per existing rules. The e-Tourist visa must be used within 120 days of issuance, and applications need to be submitted online through the Indian visa portal.

This development comes as Andaman and Nicobar Islands prepare for the launch of their first international flight route to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, starting November 2024. AirAsia will operate flights between Port Blair and Kuala Lumpur thrice a week, departing from Port Blair at 11:00 AM and arriving in Malaysia at 4:15 PM. This route is expected to significantly boost economic growth, particularly in tourism and various trading markets.

The visa fee waiver is part of the Indian government’s broader tourism-friendly promotion, aimed at increasing the influx of Malaysian tourists and other foreign visitors. This initiative aligns with the introduction of the new international air route, making travel more accessible and appealing.

For Indian citizens planning to visit Malaysia, there are also benefits. Malaysia offers a visa waiver for Indian tourists until December 31, 2024. Indian travelers must ensure their passports are valid for at least six months and submit the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) online three days before entry.

This reciprocal ease of travel between India and Malaysia is set to enhance tourism and strengthen the cultural and economic bonds between the two nations. The initiative not only promises increased tourist footfall in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands but also opens new avenues for bilateral cooperation and mutual growth.

As the first international route from Andaman to Kuala Lumpur gets ready for takeoff, both Indian and Malaysian tourists have much to look forward to, heralding a new era of connectivity and cultural exchange.

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