KUALA LUMPUR: Tourist arrivals from ASEAN countries to Malaysia have surged by 15.5% in the first half of this year compared with the same period in 2024, says Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing.
The Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister said the increase was a testament to the country’s targeted promotional efforts and its strategic advantage as ASEAN Chair in 2025.
“Tourists from neighbouring ASEAN nations continue to be a key driver of Malaysia’s international arrivals,” he told Datuk Seri Dr Wee Jeck Seng (BN–Tanjung Piai) during the Ministers’ Question Time in Parliament yesterday.
Tiong said that in 2024, ASEAN visitors made up 74.3% of Malaysia’s total international tourist numbers.
“In the first half of 2025, arrivals rose to 15.09 million compared with 13.06 million in the same period last year,” he said.
He added that Malaysia’s role as ASEAN Chair this year had brought in additional traffic, with numerous meetings drawing delegates and visitors from across the region.
Regarding challenges in tourism promotion, Tiong acknowledged budget constraints but assured that his ministry was working closely with the Finance Ministry to address the issue.
“We are actively seeking partnerships and making the most of our resources to ensure Malaysia remains visible and competitive in the region,” he said.
