Malaysian Passport Third Strongest in the World, What Number is Indonesia?

Malaysia's passport has surged to become the world's third most powerful passport, climbing seven positions from the previous year. This achievement places Malaysia on par with 15 elite nations including Belgium, France, Germany, the Netherlands, and South Korea. The latest ranking was released in the Passport Index 2025 by global financial firm Arton Capital.

“This accomplishment reflects international trust and recognition of Malaysia's travel document security,” wrote Malaysia's Immigration Department (JIM) in its official statement.

With this ranking, Malaysian citizens now enjoy visa-free access to 174 countries worldwide. 

“It also demonstrates Malaysia's strong global standing and expands opportunities for its citizens to travel, study, work, and conduct business abroad,” JIM added.

Meanwhile, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) secured the top position with access to 179 countries, followed by Singapore and Spain in second place (175 countries). 

Malaysia now ranks above Japan, the United Kingdom, and the United States, positioned at fourth, eighth, and ninth places respectively.

Indonesia's Passport Ranking

Indonesia's passport holds the 54th global position. Nevertheless, according to the same report, Indonesia ranks as the world's eighth best destination for affordable living and tourism. 

From Bali to Labuan Bajo, Yogyakarta to Raja Ampat, its allure continues to captivate international tourists—even those holding “superpower” passports.

This means that while Indonesians may not yet enjoy easy visa-free travel to many countries like Malaysia or Singapore, people from across the globe journey here seeking tranquility, warmth, and more meaningful life experiences.

Beyond Rankings

The Passport Index 2025 methodology differs from the Henley Passport Index, though both assess travel document strength. 

In Henley's latest version, Malaysia's passport ranks 12th globally, tied with the United States, granting visa-free access to 180 countries. 

Meanwhile, Henley crowned Singapore the world's strongest passport, followed by South Korea and Japan.

Despite methodological differences, Asia continues to show progress in global mobility. 

Though not among the top tier, Indonesia's true strength lies not in passport pages, but in the boundless pages of its natural beauty and culture waiting to be explored.