KUALA LUMPUR – Nestled in the heart of the South Pacific, Vanuatu is eager to deepen its ties with Malaysia, envisioning greater collaboration to elevate its tourism industry and expand economic opportunities.
The picturesque island nation, an archipelago of 83 islands located east of Australia and 800km west of Fiji, is a hidden gem boasting breathtaking landscapes, from lush rainforests and pristine beaches to active volcanoes. Its unique cultural heritage weaves together indigenous traditions with French and British influences, offering an experience unlike any other.
Despite the lack of direct flights between Malaysia and Vanuatu, Consul General of the Republic of Vanuatu in Kuala Lumpur, Henry Savarimuthu, noted a promising surge in Malaysian visitors in recent years.
“About 10 years ago, we wanted to push for a direct flight (from Malaysia to Vanuatu), but the government here shut it down due to cost-related concerns,” Henry told Scoop at the consulate’s headquarters.
“For Malaysians to visit Vanuatu, which will be a visa-free trip, they will have to travel to either Australia or New Zealand for a transit flight.”
Beyond its awe-inspiring volcanoes, Vanuatu offers a treasure trove of adventure, from snorkelling in crystal-clear waters and diving to discover a sunken World War II warship to sending postcards from the world’s only underwater post office.
Henry noted that while some Malaysians travel for trade, the number of tourists from Malaysia has surged from around 20 per year to between 800 and 1,000, with a notable portion involved in business activities.
However, he acknowledged that the high cost of travel and accommodation might deter potential visitors.
“If Malaysians want to travel to Vanuatu, then it will cost them double the price of travelling to the Maldives or Mauritius. Flight tickets to Vanuatu and the accommodations there are on the high side, mainly because we import everything, including diesel, which affects our electricity costs.”
With hotel rates ranging from US$500 to US$2,000 per night, the steep prices could push travellers towards more budget-friendly destinations offering similar tropical experiences.
This concern is significant, given that tourism is a vital pillar of Vanuatu’s economy. The country has twice topped the Happy Planet Index, which ranks nations based on sustainable well-being and life satisfaction.
When asked whether Vanuatu intends to become a more halal-friendly destination, Henry ruled out the possibility, citing the nation’s heavy reliance on imports.
“We don’t really promote halal (offerings) in Vanuatu. Since Vanuatu is a net exporter of beef, I have tried to bring Malaysians in to set up an abattoir there under the halal category, but so far, none have expressed an interest,” he said.
Nonetheless, a small but growing Malaysian presence can be found in Vanuatu, with 20 Malaysian families running convenience stores and a young entrepreneur from Klang establishing a poultry business in the capital, Port Vila.
Henry also described Vanuatu as a tax haven, highlighting its international finance centre, which has been in operation for about 40 years with no income tax, capital gains tax, withholding tax, estate duties or exchange controls.
Additionally, Vanuatu has been actively promoting its citizenship-by-investment programme, which allows individuals and families to obtain citizenship through financial contributions.
Looking beyond tourism, Henry revealed ambitious plans to bring Malaysian expertise to Vanuatu’s education sector.
“We’re looking at bringing in technical and vocational education and training (TVET) facilitators from Malaysia to Vanuatu as part of an idea for Malaysians to set up TVET schools in Vanuatu,” he said.
He added that early discussions with the Malaysian Institute of Technology aim to enable Vanuatu students to access TVET education locally rather than seeking opportunities abroad.
As Malaysia assumes the ASEAN chairmanship this year, Henry expressed optimism that the role will open doors to stronger trade ties and increased Malaysian business ventures in Vanuatu.
“As a nation in the Asia-Pacific region, Vanuatu was asked to support Malaysia’s bid to become a key player in ASEAN.
“We’re looking forward to seeing what Malaysia can offer and how it can reciprocate the support Vanuatu had previously given,” he added. – February 16, 2025