VFS Will Be Safer Than VOA, Says Deputy Minister

PETALING JAYA, Aug 4 (Bernama) -- Deputy Tourism Minister Datuk James Dawos Mamit today said the Visa Facilitation System (VFS) that replaces the current Visa On Arrival (VOA) for foreign tourists would be similar but with enhanced security features. He said, unlike VOA, a background check would be done for VFS applicants, to ensure visa was only given to the right applicant and not to those who may abuse the issuance of VOA, just like what had happened in the past. "Previously, there was no background check on the applicants, the applicants come to the Immigration point, apply for it, and the officer will approve it immediately, if they meet the requirements," he told reporters after announcing the arrival of the "Slash Live in Kuala Lumpur" concert on Wednesday.

Dawos said the VFS which would be implemented soon would be the alternative for eight countries that have been banned from using the VOA to enter Malaysia. He added that even though the current VOA would be terminated and be replaced with VFS, it would not affect the tourism industry. Moreover, he said, it would be more convenient for them to apply for the visa, especially for those who travel in groups. "It will be like the VOA, but will take a longer time to process because of the background check, however, since applicants can now apply through travel agents in their own country, it will be more convenient for them," he said.

On Monday, Deputy Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin announced that the government had decided to stop the issuance of VOA, to foreign tourists at entry points, as the facility was being abused. Meanwhile, regarding the Slash Live in Kuala Lumpur, he said the Slash coming to Malaysia would promote the Malaysia tourism industries and attract a lot more tourists, especially from the United States (USA). "This concert will certainly provide Slash fans from the country and the region, an opportunity to see this legendary entertainer performing live and simultaneously enjoy the beautiful tourist spots that Malaysia has to offer," he said. Legendary guitar hero Saul 'Slash' Hudson ex guitarist of Gun N' Roses will be performing live at the Surf Beach in Sunway Lagoon at 8pm, tomorrow and local band Amy Search has been given the honour to perform in the opening act.