Passport Ranking Driven By Advanced Security Features, Strong Diplomatic Ties - Experts

KUALA LUMPUR, March 11 (Bernama) -- Malaysia’s passport has risen from 12th to 9th place in global rankings, driven by its advanced security features and strong diplomatic ties.

Universiti Utara Malaysia (UUM) deputy vice-chancellor (Student Affairs and Alumni), Prof Dr. Ahmad Martadha Mohamed, attributed the improvement to the biometric technology integrated into Malaysian passports, which makes forgery significantly more difficult.

“The Immigration Department’s use of QR codes and the branding of Malaysian passports further reinforces their security, enhancing the nation’s reputation as a low-risk country in global passport security,” he told Bernama.

According to Passport Index, Malaysia now ranks 9th worldwide, up from 12th last year, with its passport accepted 85 percent worldwide.

Malaysian passport holders can travel visa-free to 116 countries for stays ranging from 30 to 180 days, while an additional 46 countries offer visas on arrival.

Malaysia’s improved passport ranking is also influenced by the strong reputation of its citizens, who are rarely linked to issues of illegal immigration, said UUM’s International Relations expert, Prof Dr. Ahmad Martadha Mohamed.

“How many of our citizens overstay or reside illegally overseas? In contrast, some nationals frequently exceed their permitted stay in the U.S. or Europe, leading to a red flag designation that complicates their entry into other countries,” he explained.

Meanwhile, senior lecturer at Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM), Centre for Media Warfare Studies and Information, Dr. Noor Nirwandy Mat Noordin, highlighted Malaysia’s strong bilateral and multilateral diplomatic relations as a significant factor in its rising passport ranking.

He noted that these ties have facilitated visa-free agreements, visa exemptions, and visa-on-arrival arrangements, further enhancing Malaysia’s global standing.

“The improved ranking also benefits Malaysians by streamlining visa applications and providing easier access to healthcare and education abroad. It reflects our economic, security, and political stability, factors that attract foreign investment and reinforce the country’s reputation,” he said.

-- BERNAMA