In an advisory, the High Commission of India in Kuala Lumpur also highlighted the growing problem of Indian nationals allegedly being lured by unscrupulous agents with false promises of jobs in Malaysia.

“There is a noticeable increase in Indian nationals arriving in Malaysia using the 30-day visa-free facility to seek employment,” the High Commission said.

The mission urged Indian nationals travelling to Malaysia on tourist visas not to take up employment, warning that doing so could have serious legal consequences.

“Many Indian nationals are misled by unscrupulous agents with false job promises, leading to overstay, illegal status, exploitation, detention and legal action,” the advisory said.

The High Commission noted that entering Malaysia under the visa-free facility for the purpose of employment is a clear violation of the country’s immigration rules.

The visa-free facility allows Indian passport holders to stay in Malaysia for up to 30 days, but is intended only for tourism and social visits.

What should genuine tourists carry?

The High Commission advised genuine tourists to carry valid and verifiable documents to avoid immigration-related issues upon arrival in Malaysia.

These include:

A confirmed return ticket

Valid hotel booking or proof of accommodation

Online submission of the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) three days before the date of arrival

A passport with at least six months' validity

“Once again, Indian nationals are strictly advised not to travel to Malaysia for work/employment purposes without a work permit or Visa With Reference (VDR),” the advisory said.

The High Commission urged travellers to verify employment offers and ensure they have the necessary immigration and work authorisations before travelling to Malaysia for employment.