Visitors invited to experience Taiping's heritage during Raintown Film Festival

 

FILM enthusiasts and tourists are invited to Taiping next month for a three-day celebration of cinema and culture. 

The Raintown Film Festival 2026 returns for its third edition from Sept 4 to 6 at Paragon Cinemas in Taiping Mall — uniting Malaysian filmmakers, emerging talents, industry practitioners, and film lovers through screenings, knowledge-sharing sessions and cultural activities. 

Supporting partner West Coast Expressway (WCE) encourages travellers to use the new highway to visit the town know for its heritage and heavy rain, which is the inspiration for the festival's name. 

WCE managing director Lyndon Alfred Felix noted that their support reflects a commitment to domestic tourism and local economic growth. 

"With one month remaining, we encourage the public to plan their journeys early and take the opportunity to experience the festival while exploring the many tourist attractions, local food and heritage sites that make Taiping a truly special destination," he said, adding that the festival has strong potential to draw more visitors to benefit local businesses. 

This year's event sees a significant surge in interest, receiving 152 submissions for the Raintown Short Film Competition — a 48 per cent increase from last year's 103 entries.

Out of these, 20 finallists were chosen to compete across eight award categories. 

The festival schedule includes screenings of four Malaysian feature films: 'Circus of Life', 'Tomorrow, Tomorrow, Tomorrow and Tomorrow', 'Goodbye Boys', and 'Men Who Save the World'. 

Each screening will feature a Q&A session with the filmmakers. 

Additionally, attendees can look forward to a guided experience at Bukit Larut and a screening of the documentary 'The Island School: The Story of SJK(C) Aik Hua', which highlights a tiny rural school's journey to maintain access to education. 

In a first, the festival is collaborating with IACT College's School of Media and Creative Communication to offer young filmmakers a platform to showcase their work and connect with industry pros. 

Beyond the theatre, visitors are encouraged to explore local highlights like the Taiping Lake Gardens and Bukit Larut. 

The Raintown Film Festival 2026 is organised by WuBen Film Magazine and Studio 1914, supported by the Perak government, cultural agency Port Ipoh, elected representatives, industry organisations and community partners. Tickets are available now via CloudJoi.

-nst online.

Citra Malaysia: Colours of Malaysia @ Menara Alor Setar, Kedah ( 14 Ogos 2026 )

 

Saksikan Keindahan Warisan Seni Budaya Malaysia!

Ayuh hadir memeriahkan Citra Malaysia: Colours of Malaysia, sebuah persembahan yang menghimpunkan kepelbagaian seni budaya negara menerusi tarian pelbagai kaum, tarian identiti negeri, muzik dan nyanyian dalam satu pentas yang penuh warna-warni.

Tarikh: 14 Ogos 2026 (Jumaat)

Masa: 8.45 malam

Lokasi: Menara Alor Setar, Kedah

Nikmati persembahan istimewa daripada:

> Kumpulan Satelit JKKN Kedah

> Kumpulan Muzik Dendang Lipur

Masuk PERCUMA!

Bawa keluarga dan rakan-rakan untuk bersama-sama menghayati keunikan seni dan budaya Malaysia dalam suasana yang penuh meriah.

Jumpa anda di Menara Alor Setar!

-Kedah Tourism.

Sambutan Ulang Tahun Tourism Malaysia Ke-54

 

Putrajaya, 5 Ogos 2026 | Tourism Malaysia telah menyambut Ulang Tahun Ke-54 menerusi Majlis Taklimat Persaraan dan Perhimpunan Sambutan Ulang Tahun Tourism Malaysia Ke-54. Sambutan ini memperingati penubuhan Tourism Malaysia pada 10 Ogos 1972, sekali gus menandakan perjalanan selama 54 tahun dalam memperkukuh industri pelancongan negara serta mempromosikan Malaysia sebagai destinasi pelancongan bertaraf dunia.

Majlis tersebut telah dihadiri oleh Ketua Pengarah Tourism Malaysia, Ybrs. En. Mohd Amirul Rizal Abdul Rahim, Timbalan Ketua Pengarah (Promosi),YBhg. Datuk Musa bin Yusof, Pengarah Kanan Pengurusan, En. Wizani Bin Rosmin, barisan Pengarah Kanan, Pengarah Bahagian serta seluruh warga Tourism Malaysia.

Majlis turut menyaksikan sesi penghargaan dan persaraan wajib YBhg. Datuk Musa bin Yusof, Timbalan Ketua Pengarah (Promosi) Tourism Malaysia, yang akan bersara pada 10 Ogos 2026. Setinggi-tinggi penghargaan dan terima kasih dirakamkan atas segala jasa, kepimpinan, komitmen serta sumbangan beliau sepanjang berkhidmat dalam memacu usaha promosi pelancongan negara.

Semoga Tourism Malaysia terus melakar kejayaan, memperkasakan usaha promosi pelancongan negara dan memainkan peranan penting dalam menyokong aspirasi Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026).

-Tourism Malaysia.

Malaysia Cultural Festival 2026 @ Titiwangsa Lake Gardens, Kuala Lumpur ( 11 ~ 16 September 2026 )

 

Let's Join Festival Budaya Malaysia 2026!

Experience the best of Malaysia's arts, culture and heritage with your family and friends.

> Cultural performances

> Heritage and local favourite foods

> Handicrafts and local products

> Traditional games

> E-Sports competitions

Featuring 12 brand new programmes and activities at FBM 2026!

Date: 11–16 September 2026

Time: 9:00 AM – 12:00 Midnight

Venue: Taman Tasik Titiwangsa, Kuala Lumpur

FREE ADMISSION

See you at Festival Budaya Malaysia 2026!

-Tourism Malaysia.

Tourism Malaysia Strengthens Support For Malaysia’s Business Events Industry At MBEW 2026

 

KUALA LUMPUR – Tourism Malaysia was honoured to be part of the 11th edition of Malaysia Business Events Week (MBEW) 2026, held from 3–5 August 2026 at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre.

Organised by the Malaysia Convention & Exhibition Bureau (MyCEB), the event was officially opened by YB Dato Sri Tiong King Sing, Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture Malaysia, following welcoming remarks by YB Dr. Sivakumar Varatharaju Naidu, Chairman of MyCEB. Also in attendance was YBrs. Mr. Mohd Amirul Rizal Abdul Rahim, Director General of Tourism Malaysia, reflecting Tourism Malaysia’s continuous support towards strengthening Malaysia’s business events sector and advancing the objectives of Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026).

Bringing together diplomatic representatives, international delegates and industry leaders from around the world, MBEW 2026 underscores Malaysia’s continued growth and recognition as a preferred destination for world-class business events.

The event also featured the BE xChange Walkabout, which provided a platform for exhibitors and industry partners to showcase innovative products, services and solutions while fostering valuable connections, collaborations and strategic partnerships within the business events ecosystem.

Through platforms such as MBEW 2026, Tourism Malaysia remains committed to supporting the growth of Malaysia's Business Events industry, fostering stronger industry collaboration and reinforcing the nation's position as a premier destination for world-class Business Events.

-Tourism Malaysia.

Malaysia August Monthly Events 2026

 

Malaysia August Monthly Events 2026

Ogos ini, semarakkan semangat kemerdekaan!

Raikan Bulan Kebangsaan dengan terokai pelbagai aktiviti sepanjang bulan Ogos di seluruh Malaysia!

Sama ada festival kebudayaan, acara sukan, konsert, pameran, hinggalah karnival pelancongan, bulan ini menjanjikan pelbagai pengalaman yang sesuai dinikmati bersama keluarga dan rakan-rakan.

Rancang percutian anda dan jangan lepaskan peluang untuk merasai kemeriahan setiap negeri.

-Tourism Malaysia.

Festival Budaya Selangor 2026 @ Dataran Pantai Batu Laut, Tanjung Sepat, Selangor ( 16 ~ 20 September 2026 )

 

Festival Budaya Selangor Kini Kembali!

Terokai keunikan seni, budaya dan warisan Selangor melalui pelbagai aktiviti menarik untuk seisi keluarga

Lokasi: Batu Laut, Tanjung Sepat, Selangor

Tarikh: 16-20 September 2026

Antara tarikan yang menanti anda:

> Persembahan Seni Budaya Selangor

> Floating Market @ Sand

> Pameran Interaktif, Jualan Rahmah & FAMA

> Wau Kapal

> Kapal Layar

> Konsert artis & pelbagai lagi aktiviti menarik!

Jangan lepaskan peluang. Jumpa anda di sana!

-Tourism Malaysia.

MyBHA Launches Tourshield, Urges Government To Address Growing Threats To Malaysia’s Hotel And Tourism Industry

 

MELAKA - During the Annual General Assembly, MyBHA launched “TourShield” as an industry initiative aimed at strengthening safety, security and protection throughout the hospitality and tourism journey.

TourShield was officially launched by YBhg. Datuk Manoharan Periasamy, Chairman of Tourism Malaysia. In conjunction with the launch, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between Dr Sri Ganesh Michiel, National President of MyBHA, and Mr Jayden Chuah Chee Keong, Chief InsurTech Officer of VKA Wealth Planners Sdn Bhd, one of the companies mandated by the Association to manage and facilitate the TourShield initiative.

The event also witnessed the signing of separate MoUs between VKA Wealth Planners Sdn Bhd and Mr Hann-Ti Tan, Executive Director of Fastlane Emergency Resources Group Sdn. Bhd., as well as Dr Fabian Lim, Chief Operating Officer of HEYDOC Health Sdn. Bhd. These collaborations are aimed at further strengthening TourShield through the provision of additional safety, security and protection services for the hospitality and tourism ecosystem.

Also present and witnessing the signing ceremonies were Mr Mohd Roslan bin Abdullah, Senior Director of the Domestic and Events Division, Tourism Malaysia, representing the Director-General of Tourism Malaysia; and Mr Mohamad Bukhari bin Che Man, Director of the Melaka Office of the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture Malaysia (MOTAC), representing the Secretary-General of MOTAC. Their presence reflected the importance of strengthening collaboration between government agencies and industry stakeholders in advancing safety, security and protection initiatives within Malaysia’s hospitality and tourism sector.

“TourShield carries a clear principle: ‘Securing Hospitality, Safeguarding Journeys.’ As we continue to grow the tourism sector, we must also strengthen the ecosystem that protects our visitors and our industry. Tourism growth, safety, responsibility and sustainability must move forward together,”.

MyBHA calls upon hotel industry operators to stay informed about the exclusive packages and benefits offered to MyBHA members under this initiative.

-Tourism Malaysia.

Trans Borneo expedition to boost Sabah tourism ahead of Visit Sabah 2027

KOTA KINABALU: The 30 Years Tribute to Trans Borneo 2026 expedition is expected to strengthen Sabah's position as a leading adventure tourism destination while supporting promotional efforts for Visit Sabah 2027. 

Sabah Tourism Board chairman Datuk Joniston Bangkuai said overland expeditions such as the Trans Borneo journey offered travellers authentic experiences by connecting them with local communities, diverse cultures and Borneo's natural landscapes. 

"Today, travellers are looking for more than just places to visit. 

"They are looking for experiences that allow them to discover a destination in a more meaningful way, to meet local communities, understand different cultures and create memories that last beyond the journey. 

"This is where overland and adventure tourism have an important role to play," he said at the tribute launching today. 

The 30 Years Tribute to Trans Borneo 2026 is a 17-day, multi-nation 4x4 overland expedition across Indonesia, Malaysia, and Brunei that retraces the historic 1996 route to promote regional adventure tourism and cultural exchange.

Joniston, who is also assistant minister to Sabah chief minister, said the expedition would showcase Sabah from a different perspective through participants' experiences, photographs and stories, helping to introduce the state and Borneo to international audiences. 

"As we build momentum towards Visit Sabah 2027, authentic travel experiences like this play an important role in creating awareness and inspiring more travellers to discover Sabah," he said. 

He added that upcoming infrastructure developments would improve cross-border connectivity between Sabah and Indonesia. 

This includes the Serudong Immigration, Customs, Quarantine and Security (ICQS) Complex and a new access road being developed under the Sabah Development Corridor. 

"Once completed, it will become Sabah's first permanent international land border crossing with Indonesia, opening up new opportunities for tourism, trade, investment and people-to-people exchanges," he said. 

Joniston said Sabah was strategically positioned to benefit from the development of Indonesia's new capital, Nusantara, in East Kalimantan, which would further enhance opportunities to promote Borneo as a cross-border tourism destination. 

He added that improved accessibility would encourage more travellers to explore Borneo overland while supporting regional connectivity initiatives under the Brunei Darussalam-Indonesia-Malaysia-Philippines East Asean Growth Area (BIMP-EAGA) and ASEAN.

-nst online.

Malaysia Welcomes Riyadh Air To Kuala Lumpur, Marking A New Chapter In Malaysia-Saudi Tourism And Aviation Cooperation

 

KUALA LUMPUR – Tourism Malaysia warmly welcomed the arrival of Riyadh Air at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) today, celebrating the Saudi national carrier’s historic maiden entry into Southeast Asia. The landmark flight signals a transformative era in bilateral tourism cooperation and opens direct access for high-yield Saudi visitors to Malaysia.

The inaugural flight arrived at KLIA from King Khalid International Airport, Riyadh, representing Riyadh Air’s first scheduled commercial service to Malaysia and its inaugural destination within the region. Operating three times weekly on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, the Riyadh–Kuala Lumpur route utilises Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft configured to accommodate up to 290 passengers per flight. This strategic connection significantly enhances direct accessibility while fostering deeper tourism, trade, and investment exchanges between both nations.

-Tourism Malaysia.

Majlis Perasmian Star Karnival Cuti-Cuti Malaysia (SKCCM) Johor 2026

 

JOHOR BAHRU, 1 Ogos 2026 – Majlis Perasmian Star Karnival Cuti-Cuti Malaysia (SKCCM) Johor 2026 telah disempurnakan oleh YBrs. Tuan Mohd Amirul Rizal bin Abd Rahim, Ketua Pengarah Tourism Malaysia di Paradigm Mall, Johor Bahru.

Program yang berlangsung dari 31 Julai hingga 2 Ogos 2026 ini merupakan anjuran Tourism Malaysia dengan kerjasama Star Media Group Berhad sebagai sebahagian daripada usaha memperkukuh pelancongan domestik bersempena Tahun Melawat Malaysia 2026 (Visit Malaysia 2026 – VM2026). Bertemakan "Explore, Experience, Excite", karnival ini menghimpunkan pelbagai pengusaha industri pelancongan yang menawarkan pakej percutian eksklusif, promosi istimewa serta pelbagai aktiviti menarik kepada para pengunjung.

Turut hadir memeriahkan majlis ialah Encik Mohammad Nazrul bin Abd Rahim, Pengarah Tourism Johor sebagai tanda sokongan terhadap penganjuran program yang berperanan merancakkan sektor pelancongan domestik serta memperkukuh kerjasama strategik antara agensi pelancongan dan pemain industri.

Penganjuran SKCCM Johor 2026 dijangka menjadi platform penting dalam mempromosikan destinasi pelancongan tempatan, sekali gus menggalakkan lebih ramai rakyat Malaysia meneroka keunikan dan kepelbagaian produk pelancongan negara menjelang Tahun Melawat Malaysia 2026.

-Tourism Johor.

Malaysia Fest 2026 In Singapore: Tourism Malaysia Unveils Durian Packages “Klang Valley Edition”

 

SINGAPORE — Capitalising on the peak of the mid-year durian season, Tourism Malaysia has officially unveiled its Durian Packages (Klang Valley Edition). The initiative was launched by the Deputy  Minister of Agriculture & Food Security Malaysia, The Honourable Datuk Chan Foong Hin together with the newly appointed High Commissioner of Malaysia to Singapore, Her Excellency Datin Paduka Anizan Siti Hajjar Adnin, during the 9th edition of Malaysia Fest held in Singapore.

Timed to coincide with the peak harvest of the "King of Fruits", the Klang Valley Edition combines Malaysia's renowned durian experiences with the vibrant attractions of the nation's capital. Visitors to Malaysia Fest 2026 can discover thoughtfully curated itineraries that seamlessly blend modern city experiences with authentic visits to durian orchards located just outside bustling Kuala Lumpur. From shopping at world-class malls and exploring iconic city landmarks to indulging in premium, freshly harvested Musang King durians at nearby orchards, the packages offer travellers the best of both worlds.

Mr Mohd Amirul Rizal Abdul Rahim, Director General of Tourism Malaysia, said, “Durian has evolved from just a seasonal fruit into a compelling travel motivator. With the Klang Valley Edition, we aim to show travellers that they do not have to choose between a cosmopolitan city holiday and an authentic, farm-to-table durian feast. You can easily shop at world-class malls in the morning and be cracking open a fresh, naturally fallen Musang King in an orchard by the afternoon. We anticipate this will provide a significant boost to our tourism arrivals from Singapore, especially for the Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026) campaign.”

-Tourism Malaysia.

Tourism Malaysia Supports MATTA Connect 2026 Ahead Of Visit Malaysia 2026

 

PERAK - The Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (MATTA) organised MATTA Connect 2026, a Business-to-Business (B2B) travel marketplace that serves as a platform for tourism stakeholders to strengthen business networks, foster strategic collaborations and explore new business opportunities in support of the Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026) campaign.

The event brought together 73 sellers from 14 countries, 33 hosted international buyers from Singapore, China, Indonesia, Taiwan, Thailand, Uzbekistan and India, as well as 229 domestic buyers, providing extensive opportunities for business engagement between local and international tourism industry players.

On 29 July 2026, the opening ceremony was officiated by YB Tuan Loh Sze Yee, Perak State Executive Council Member for Tourism, Industry, Investment and Corridor Development at Ipoh Convention Centre (ICC) and Grand Ballroom, AC Hotel by Marriott Ipoh, Perak. Also in attendance were Mr. Nigel Wong, President of MATTA, Mr. Chong Yu Ken, Organising Chairman of MATTA Connect 2026 and MATTA Vice President (Outbound), Mr. Muhammad Aminuddin Abdul Majid, Perak State Director of the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture Malaysia (MOTAC) and Ms. Wendy Shin, Chairman of the MATTA Perak Chapter.

The programme featured a Business Forum, Product Presentations, B2B Business Matching sessions and networking activities. As part of the Business Forum, Tourism Malaysia delivered a presentation on Malaysia’s tourism performance, the Visit Malaysia 2026 campaign and Tourism Malaysia’s strategic directions. Tourism Malaysia also participated as one of the Strategic Partners of MATTA Connect 2026, reaffirming its commitment to supporting the growth and development of Malaysia’s tourism industry.

The closing ceremony was officiated by YB Tuan Chiew Choon Man, Deputy Minister of MOTAC on 30 July 2026. Also in attendance were YBrs. Mr. Mohd Amirul Rizal Abdul Rahim, Director General of Tourism Malaysia, Mr. Mohammad Faisal Abu Suaib Khan, Director General of the Islamic Tourism Centre, Mr. Lee Thai Hung, Deputy Director General of Tourism Malaysia, and Madam Nuwal Fadhilah Ku Azmi, Senior Director of the International Promotion Division (Asia/Africa), Tourism Malaysia. The event was attended by approximately 600 participants comprising tourism industry stakeholders.

MATTA Connect 2026 successfully provided a valuable platform for strengthening collaboration among tourism stakeholders, facilitating business networking and promoting Malaysia’s tourism offerings in support of the VM2026 campaign. Tourism Malaysia’s participation further reinforced its commitment to fostering strategic partnerships and enhancing the country’s tourism industry.

-Tourism Malaysia.

MITM Travel Fair 2026 @ Mid Valley Exhibition Centre, Kuala Lumpur ( 31 Julai ~ 2 Ogos 2026 )

 

MITM Travel Fair 2026 kini kembali!

Jom kunjungi reruai Tourism Malaysia! Nikmati pelbagai promosi pelancongan, sertai aktiviti menarik seperti:

> Meet & Greet bersama Wira & Manja,

> Follow, Spin & Wheel

> Instant Photo Booth

> Kuiz pelancongan dengan hadiah istimewa menanti.

Tarikh: 31 Julai - 2 Ogos 2026

Masa: 10.00pagi - 9.00 malam

Lokasi: Mid Valley Exhibition Centre (MVEC), Kuala Lumpur

Masuk PERCUMA!

Jumpa anda di sana!

-Tourism Malaysia.

MATTA Connect gains traction as B2B platform

 

The recently concluded MATTA Connect in Ipoh strengthened its credentials as a regional B2B travel trade platform after its second edition attracted 300 local and international buyers and 100 sellers, with buyers and exhibitors reporting quality business meetings and new commercial opportunities. 

MATTA president Nigel Wong noted that stronger participation, broader international representation and higher-quality business engagements demonstrated that the industry valued a dedicated B2B platform alongside the association’s flagship consumer-focused MATTA Fair. 

“The second edition saw stronger participation, broader international representation and more quality business engagements, which reinforces that the industry values such a platform,” he said, adding that the return of previous participants alongside new delegates reflected growing confidence in the event. 

Wong stated MATTA Connect had evolved beyond business matching into a platform where industry stakeholders could exchange ideas on market trends, innovation, sustainability and future collaboration. Looking ahead, he added MATTA would continue to strengthen participation from regional and emerging markets while showcasing Malaysia’s diverse tourism offerings, particularly second-tier destinations and unique local experiences. 

Delegates said that the event had delivered meaningful business opportunities. 

Returning for a second time as a buyer, Kedah-based Morahols Travel CEO Eric R Sinnaya shared this year’s edition generated promising leads with inbound and outbound operators from India and Uzbekistan. 

“I met many serious buyers and sellers. The relaxed format allows discussions to continue beyond the scheduled business matching sessions, making it easier to build relationships,” he said. 

Melody Lee, inbound department manager at Jinghe International Travel Agency, noted that the event attracted high-quality buyers with strong interest in FIT leisure travel and private tours to China. 

“I secured bookings for year-end departures and early 2027, while also establishing new business contacts. Face-to-face meetings remain essential for building trust with partners,” she said. 

Guohui Shi, inbound travel specialist at China Prime DMC, observed that Malaysian demand for travel to China had grown steadily following the implementation of the Malaysia-China mutual visa exemption arrangement. He attended MATTA Connect to strengthen relationships with Malaysian outbound agents while gaining a better understanding of Malaysian travellers’ preferences to develop products better suited to the market. 

Rather than measuring success solely by exhibitor or buyer numbers, Wong emphasised MATTA’s long-term focus was on the quality of business outcomes and partnerships generated through the platform. 

“We want to see stronger connections between international buyers and Malaysian tourism players, especially in promoting local destinations, second-tier cities and unique tourism products that can bring greater benefits to communities across the country,” he said.

-TTG Asia.

Exclusive Malaysia Fest Offers @ Singapore Expo, Hall 5A & 5B ( 30 July ~ 2 August 2026 )

 

From Cool Mountain Breezes To Sunny Coastal Shores, Your Next Malaysian Gateway Starts Here!

Heading to Malaysia Fest 2026 in Singapore? We’ve got exclusive, limited-time travel packages designed to give you the ultimate local hospitality experience—whether you're looking for family fun by the beach, a chilly highland retreat, or a pristine golf getaway!

Exclusive Malaysia Fest Deals (30 July – 2 August 2026)

Seaside Family Escape | Swiss-Grand Beach Resort, Kuantan

3D2N Stay starting from RM 1,288 NETT

Includes Daily Breakfast Buffet, RM 50 Dining Credit & fun local activities!

Highland Family Getaway | Swiss-Garden Hotel & Residences, Genting Highlands

2D1N Stay starting from RM 500 NETT

Includes Breakfast Buffet, Set Dinner, Room Decoration, Kids Activities & a special Plush Toy!

Golf Getaway for 4 Golfers | Damai Laut Golf & Country Club

3D2N Stay in a 2-Bedroom Apartment for RM 1,650 NETT

Includes two 18-hole golf rounds (green fees & shared buggy included), insurance, and 2 meals per person!

Where to Find Us:

Dates: 30 July – 2 August 2026

Venue: Singapore EXPO, Hall 5A & 5B

Travel Validity: Book now, travel anytime until 15 December 2026!

Terms & Conditions Apply.

For more info

Swiss-Garden International Hotels, Resorts & Inns

Tag your travel buddies below! Where are we heading first?

-Tourism Malaysia.

Mega Fam: Tourism Malaysia Welcomes 55 International Media And Trade Delegates In Conjunction With Citrawarna 2026

 

KUALA LUMPUR — Tourism Malaysia hosted a Meet & Greet session for the Mega Fam Programme in conjunction with Citrawarna 2026 at DSR Taiko Berhad, bringing together 55 delegates comprising media, travel agents, Key Opinion Leaders (KOL) and marketing representatives from Tourism Malaysia overseas offices, representing 13 countries in the Asia Pacific region. 

Held over five days from 23 to 27 July 2026, the programme forms part of Tourism Malaysia's strategic effort to generate international media coverage and trade engagement in support of the Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026) campaign that is planned for an extension through 2027. 

The 55-people delegation comprises 30 media, 17 travel agents, 5 KOLs and 3 marketing representatives from Tourism Malaysia overseas offices. The participants were from various cities including Jakarta, Medan, Bangkok, Phnom Penh, Vientiane, Manila, Ho Chi Minh City, Taipei, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Beijing, Hong Kong, Seoul, Tokyo, Mumbai, New Delhi, Chennai, Sri Lanka, Dhaka and Sydney. 

Present at Meet & Greet session, YBrs. Mr. Lee Thai Hung, Deputy Director General (Promotion II) of Tourism Malaysia, said: "This Mega Fam is a strategic investment in the international visibility we need to hit our VM2026 numbers. When 55 media, trade and content partners from 13 markets experience the Colours of Malaysia here and carry that story home, it converts into exactly the kind of visit intent this campaign is built on. Programmes like this, combined with stops at some of our great destinations, are how we turn a single trip into coverage across our most important source markets." 

The enriching trip begins at DSR Taiko Berhad, home to the world's first Musang King gelato and durian orchard experience. The Mega Fam delegates were involved in a brand introduction, an orchard discovery tour featuring the Musang King tree, a harvest demonstration and traceability showcase, and a sharing session with the founder and management team. 

To highlight Malaysian rich heritage food and gastronomy, the delegates were brought for dinner at IRAMA Signature IOI City Mall, Putrajaya. The restaurant presents Warisan Tradisi Melayu, a vibrant fusion of traditional Malay recipes and contemporary global flavors tailored for international visitors. It illustrates the preservation and evolution of Malay heritage while adapting to global preferences, enhancing accessibility for international visitors. 

Delegates also attended the official Launching Ceremony of Citrawarna 2026 at Dataran Merdeka on 25 July, before continuing to Kuala Selangor, as well as craft and gastronomy sites in Kuala Lumpur over the remainder of the five-day programme, offering a comprehensive showcase of Malaysia's tourism diversity. 

Tourism Malaysia expects the programme to generate impactful print, digital, and broadcast coverage across all 13 source markets represented. By transforming these immersive experiences into compelling global narratives, the initiative will reinforce Malaysia's positioning as a world-class destination for gastronomy, heritage and culture. 

As the VM2026 campaign approaches its concluding phase, the momentum generated by this Mega Fam will be instrumental in capturing the hearts of global travellers and paving the way for a successful tourism year in 2027.

-Tourism Malaysia.

PM attends Citrawarna 2026 as Malaysia showcases cultural diversity to global visitors

 

KUALA LUMPUR: Citrawarna 2026 drew more than 700 international visitors from 12 countries, with participants from across Asia, Europe and beyond witnessing one of Malaysia's most celebrated cultural showcases under the Visit Malaysia 2026 campaign. 

Visitors from China, India, Mauritius, Japan, Vietnam, Indonesia, Singapore, Kazakhstan, Italy, the Netherlands, Switzerland and France attended the event via specially curated travel packages. 

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim launched the annual cultural showcase at Dataran Merdeka, with the three-day event featuring 3,500 performers representing states, three federal territories and the nation's multicultural communities in its signature Colours of Parade (Citra Perarakan). 

The festival commenced with an opening performance, followed by the parade and a post-show performance, watched by spectators along Jalan Raja and at the Sultan Abdul Samad Building (BSAS). 

Also present was Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing. 

Citrawarna 2026 features four signature experiences: Colours of Parade, Colours of Flavour, Colours of Culture and Colours of Art.

The event includes more than 70 food and beverage offerings, over 20 cultural activity stations, and more than 10 arts and crafts booths throughout the three-day celebration. 

Visitors were also invited to participate in hands-on activities, including batik painting, ketupat weaving and traditional culinary demonstrations led by artisans and cultural practitioners. 

Contemporary performances were staged by Malaysian artistes including Wani Kayrie, Bulan Asryaff, Dr Soo Wincci, Santesh Kumar, Ernie Zakri, Aina Abdul and Kumpulan Balle-Balle. 

This year's edition, themed Ritma Warisan, Nadi Nusa dan Bangsa (The Rhythm of Heritage, The Pulse of the Nation and the People), invites visitors to experience the many traditions, colours and stories that continue to shape the nation.

-nst online.