MyBHA president Sri Ganesh Michiel believes that more European travellers would flock here if it were not for Malaysia’s “strict” visa policy.

He told FMT that the cost and difficulties that came with applying for visas were an obstacle that hindered these tourists from wanting to visit the country.

“Europeans often travel to Thailand and may want to travel to neighbouring countries like Malaysia, but they have been restricted by our visa policy.

“The tourism ministry has already highlighted the issue of visa-on-application but it does not seem to synchronise with the other ministries,” he said.

The Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (Matta) also backed the tourism ministry, warning the government that a restrictive visa policy meant fewer opportunities for economic growth and job creation.

Matta honorary secretary-general Faeez Fadhlillah said the procedure of visa applications involved long wait times and costs, such as travelling to an application centre to submit them, thus deterring travellers.

“With the global economy heading towards a recession, the government has to act fast in ensuring Malaysia does not lose out to neighbouring countries.

“The cost and difficulties that come with visa applications remain the main deterrent to travelling to any particular country,” he said.

Currently, visa-on-arrival is provided for travellers from China and India if they are entering Malaysia from Singapore, Indonesia, Thailand or Brunei.

On Wednesday, tourism minister Tiong King Sing said Malaysia should consider providing visa-on-arrival for travellers from all countries to remain competitive in the global tourism industry.

Tiong said security should not be used as a pretext to hinder tourist arrivals, adding that he was confident the authorities were capable of coping with passenger surges and maintaining order at entry points across the country.