Cabinet rejects proposal to introduce visa for nationals of middle eastern countries

The Cabinet has rejected a National Security Council (MKN) proposal to introduce visa for nationals of Middle Eastern (West Asia) countries.

Tourism and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Nazri Abdul Aziz said the decision made at a Cabinet meeting this morning was based on several factors including Malaysia's bilateral ties with Middle Eastern countries.

"Actually, the Daish threat involves enforcement. Screening of those who enter this country needs to be tightened as the threat comes from all directions, and not only from the Middle East.

"Reviewing the visa involves bilateral agreements. Malaysia must discuss with the countries involved via memorandum of understanding and so on," he told reporters at a press conference here, today.

MKN secretary Datuk Seri Alias Ahmad proposed that the government introduce visa for nationals of Middle Eastern countries to curb the threat of Daish militants.

Mohamed Nazri said introduction of the visa could also affect good ties with Middle Eastern countries who are also members of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC).

"The Daish threat has not affected the arrival of tourists who continue to make Malaysia their destination of choice,' he added.