Date:05/08/2008 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2008/08/05/stories/2008080559691100.htm

National

Malaysia scraps visa on arrival

Special Correspondent

SINGAPORE: Malaysia has abolished the system of visa on arrival in respect of visitors from India and 26 other countries with effect from August 1.

It is understood that India has taken up the matter with the Malaysian authorities. All the Indian nationals will now have to take visa in advance for travel to Malaysia.

No reasons were spelt out in the announcement.Observers, however, point out that the decision is designed to streamline procedures and to curb the prevalent practice of illegal overstay. The countries covered under the new regulations include several South Asian countries, besides India, and some African and European countries.