KUALA LUMPUR: Jan 27 – Malaysia welcomed 42.2 million visitors in 2025, marking an 11.2% increase from 38 million in 2024 and a 20.4% rise compared with 35 million recorded in 2019, providing a strong platform for the Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026) campaign. Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi stated that the encouraging…
BENTONG: Pahang is targeting 15 million tourist arrivals this year, driven by Genting Highlands and the state’s strong appeal as Malaysia’s leading eco-tourism destination. State Unity, tourism and culture committee chairman Leong Yu Man said the target includes both domestic and international visitors, with projected tourism receipts of RM12 billion. She said the goal builds…
BATU KAWAN: Penang’s tourism sector is expected to sustain its upward momentum this year, with more than eight million tourists projected to arrive through Penang International Airport. State Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Wong Hon Wai said the positive outlook is driven largely by the introduction of new international flight routes, particularly direct services…
KUALA LUMPUR: Selangor’s comprehensive rural tourism blueprint is poised to become a national benchmark, offering a model for other states as Malaysia intensifies preparations for Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026). Industry observers say the state’s approach goes beyond economic stimulation by striking a balance between rapid urban development and the preservation of local heritage, while ensuring…
PENANG: The arrival of the New Year has brought welcome celebrations for international visitors at key transportation hubs in Malaysia as part of Tourism Malaysia’s launch of Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026). On New Year’s Day, a national celebration took place simultaneously from 55 major entrances and strategic sites across the 13 states of Malaysia, thereby…
GEORGE TOWN: Penang is steadily strengthening its position as an international hub for mind sports and sports tourism, with chess playing an increasingly prominent role in attracting global participation and showcasing the state’s intellectual and cultural appeal. Penang State Executive Councillor for Tourism and Creative Economy Wong Hon Wai said the 17th Penang Heritage City…
GEORGE TOWN: Penang’s tourism sector has moved beyond recovery and is now entering a more mature phase, supported by sustained regional and international confidence, Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said. He said the state recorded more than 8.2 million hotel guests in 2024, reflecting a strong rebound following the pandemic. Chow was speaking at the…
JOHOR BAHRU – The new Electric Train Service (ETS) route connecting Johor Bahru and Kuala Lumpur is expected to stimulate tourism activities along its corridor, particularly in smaller towns, according to the Malaysian Tourist Guides Council (MTGC). MTGC president Jimmy Leong said the projection was based on data shared during a recent engagement with Keretapi…
BUTTERWORTH: Sunway Carnival Mall has kicked off its year-end celebrations with the launch of its “Cozy Cozy Christmas” campaign, transforming the mall into a whimsical festive haven complete with cosy corners, playful touches and a candy-like atmosphere designed to spark joy among visitors of all ages. The month-long celebration, which runs from November 28 to…
KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia, is set to broaden its tourism promotion efforts beyond the Asean region ahead of Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026), with new attention directed towards European and Central Asian markets. Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (MATTA) president Nigel Wong said while demand from Asean travellers remains steady, diversification is necessary to sustain…
