Travelers arrive at Kuala Lumpur International Airport in Malaysia, 2021. Photo by Reuters
Ten Indian nationals were denied entry into Malaysia late last week, despite the country’s ongoing visa-free entry facility for passport holders from the world’s most populous country.
The Malaysian Border Control and Protection Agency (AKPS) carried out a seven-hour immigration operation at Terminal 1 of KLIA on July 25, targeting passengers from high-risk flights, Malay Mail reported.
According to officials, more than 400 travelers were screened during the operation. Of 99 denied entry were 10 Indian men.
Authorities cited “suspicious travel history” and unclear reasons for visiting Malaysia as the main grounds for denying entry, Hindustan Times News reported.
The individuals underwent further documentation checks, including background screening and interviews, before being deported as per legal procedures.
The incident comes even as Malaysia has extended its visa-free entry facility for Indian tourists until the end of 2026 as part of its efforts to boost tourism recovery. Under this policy, Indians can stay in Malaysia for up to 30 days without obtaining a visa.