PETALING JAYA: Thailand’s move to expand its visa-free entry scheme to 93 nations will not make a huge difference in the number of tourists choosing the country over Malaysia, say tourism groups.

Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents president Nigel Wong said the move would likely only create short-term buzz around Thailand without any longer-term impact.

The scheme, launched on July 15, now allows tourists from 93 countries, up from 57 previously, to enter Thailand visa-free for up to 60 days. Previously, most tourists visiting Thailand were limited to 30 days.

Presently, Malaysia grants 30-day visa-free entry to citizens of China and India, a policy likely to be reviewed at the end of this year.

However, Wong argued that increasing the number of visa-free days will not do much to entice tourists, with most only visiting Malaysia for short periods.

Travelers – such as those from China and India – come to Malaysia on short trips, lasting about a week to 12 days, Wong told FMT.

Meanwhile, Malaysian Tourist Guides Council president Jimmy Leong said tourists will typically stay in the country for about a week.

Only a small percentage of tourists stay longer than that. Therefore, Thailand’s decision to provide longer visa-free tourist stays will not impact Malaysia’s existing tourism market, he said.