Langkawi International Airport secures fifth consecutive ASQ win for Best Airport in Asia-Pacific

 

LANGKAWI: Langkawi International Airport (LGK) has been named the Best Airport in Asia-Pacific (2 to 5 million passengers) at the 2025 Airport Service Quality (ASQ) Awards. 

This marks the airport's fifth consecutive win in the same category. 

The ASQ Awards, organised by the Airports Council International (ACI), are considered the global benchmark for airport customer experience as they are based entirely on real-time passenger feedback. 

Surveys capture traveller experiences across key touchpoints, including efficiency, cleanliness, comfort, and overall service quality. 

Malaysia Airports managing director Datuk Mohd Izani Ghani said the milestone holds special significance as the nation prepares for Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026). 

"This fifth consecutive recognition is a powerful endorsement from passengers themselves. It affirms the dedication of our airport community in Langkawi and reflects our commitment to delivering seamless, welcoming journeys at one of Malaysia's most iconic island destinations," he said in a statement.

He added that service excellence at key tourism gateways like LGK will be critical in shaping first and lasting impressions of the country as VM2026 gains momentum. 

In 2025, LGK handled 2.9 million passenger movements, comprising 2.6 million domestic and 300,000 international travellers, supported by expanding connectivity and steady growth in international arrivals. 

Mohd Izani noted that Malaysia Airports will continue investing in passenger comfort, digital enhancements, and collaborative initiatives with stakeholders to further elevate the travel experience. 

As a consistent benchmark for service excellence in the region, LGK's achievement reinforces Malaysia's tourism appeal and its readiness to welcome global visitors for the upcoming tourism year.

-nst online.

Malaysia International Boat Show 2026 (MYBOS’26) @ Royal Langkawi Yacht Club ( 2–5 April 2026 )

 

The Malaysia International Boat Show 2026 (MYBOS’26) returns this coming 2–5 April 2026 to the prestigious Royal Langkawi Yacht Club, bringing the absolute finest in yachting, marine innovation, and luxury lifestyle!

Set against a breathtaking marina backdrop, MYBOS’26 features an excellent showcase of luxury yachts, artisan markets, marine lifestyle experiences, and exciting entertainment perfect for families.

Join us as we celebrate “The Rise of Nautical Tourism in Malaysia” where premium luxury and family leisure unite.

Venue: Royal Langkawi Yacht Club, Malaysia

Date: 2–5 April 2026

Discover more online: www.mybos.my

-Malaysia International Boat Show.

i-City anchors new visitor economy

 

KUALA LUMPUR: As Malaysia intensifies its global push ahead of Visit Malaysia 2026, the country's tourism narrative is undergoing a structural transformation. 

Iconic images of island sunsets and heritage streets still define its brand, but a new wave of attractions across Selangor and Kuala Lumpur is reshaping how the nation competes for international attention. 

Powered by artificial intelligence (AI), robotics and immersive engineering, these attractions are shifting technology to centre stage — becoming the attraction itself — and increasingly, a driver of capital interest. 

At i-City in the capital of Selangor, the AI World Experience Centre — developed in partnership with AgiBot — offers a glimpse into this future. 

Currently the largest public showcase of its kind in the country, the centre features over a hundred lifelike humanoid robots capable of real-time interaction. The setting is deliberately accessible; families gather as children wave at machines that wave back, testing the natural communication of AI in a leisure environment. 

Deputy Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Chiew Choon Man recently noted that these innovative centres are key to creating distinctive travel packages.

The scale of this differentiation is critical as the nation aims for a significant post-pandemic surge. 

Chiew recently expressed high confidence in these targets, stating, "The momentum we are seeing gives us confidence that the 2026 target of over 40 million arrivals is achievable with continued collaboration across government and industry players. 

"Official projections for Visit Malaysia 2026 place the target range between 35.6 million and 47 million visitors, generating between RM147.1 billion and RM329 billion in receipts. 

"Yet the strategy goes beyond novelty. For developer I-Berhad, these projects are demand engines embedded within a larger master-planned ecosystem, where robotics-as-a-service and high-tech attractions help stimulate hospitality demand," he said. 

Wyndham Hotels and Resorts Asia Pacific president Ooi Joon Aun said Wyndham i-City was not just about hospitality — it was about showcasing what AI-powered living feels like. 

He noted that global pilots have demonstrated the transformative potential of AI and robotics in redefining hospitality, adding that the partnership with i-City allowed for the delivery of "next-generation guest experiences in one of Malaysia's most innovative destinations".

Property consultant Sam Goh noted that integrated ecosystems combining attractions, technology and hospitality could reduce cyclical risk for developers while capturing both visitor spending and long-term asset appreciation. 

"As experiential travel becomes a driver of destination choice, real estate projects that embed attractions, technology and hospitality elements are increasingly positioned to capture both visitor spending and long-term asset value growth," he said. 

The Wyndham collaboration with i-City also spans to Kuala Lumpur City Centre (KLCC). 

At Wyndham Suites KLCC, located minutes from the Petronas Twin Towers, guests can experience WynSnow — an indoor snow environment engineered within a tropical metropolis. 

Behind this spectacle lies a sophisticated integration of climate-control systems and sensory design, illustrating how technical infrastructure can be repurposed into an experiential tourism asset. 

Wyndham Suites KLCC operates under a hybrid hospitality-residential model, allowing buyers to occupy units, retain them as secondary homes, or participate in a professionally managed hotel rental programme.

-nst online.

Malaysia raih 'dividen keamanan' sektor pelancongan - Penganalisis

 

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia secara tidak langsung sedang menikmati manfaat berskala besar dalam sektor pelancongan domestik susulan ketegangan geopolitik yang melanda beberapa negara di Asia. 

BIMB Securities Research berkata lonjakan luar biasa ketibaan pelancong asing itu boleh disifatkan sebagai 'dividen keamanan' yang memacu pemulihan industri secara tidak dijangka. 

Menurutnya, dalam landskap serantau yang semakin dipengaruhi pergeseran geopolitik dan kebimbangan keselamatan, Malaysia secara tidak sengaja meletakkan dirinya sebagai destinasi neutral, selamat dan kompetitif dari segi harga. 

Pasaran pelancong antarabangsa utama seperti China, katanya, menyaksikan perubahan ketara dalam pemilihan destinasi percutian apabila pelancong mengelak negara tradisional seperti Jepun, Korea Selatan dan beberapa wilayah Barat susulan ketegangan diplomatik.

Pada masa sama, destinasi bajet popular ASEAN seperti Thailand dan Kemboja masih berdepan cabaran reputasi keselamatan.  

"Kejayaan Malaysia mengekalkan imej selamat turut diperkukuh oleh ketiadaan insiden penculikan berprofil tinggi, menjadikannya destinasi pilihan bagi keluarga dan pengembara solo wanita," katanya dalam nota penyelidikan.

Mengulas lanjut, BIMB Securities Research berkata peningkatan kemasukan pelancong itu turut memberi limpahan positif kepada ekonomi domestik, termasuk pembelian barangan perhiasan emas tulen secara besar-besaran dalam kalangan pengembara elit Asia Selatan. 

Menurutnya, aliran pendapatan berterusan itu dipacu ketegangan antara India dan Bangladesh yang mengganggu perjalanan rentas sempadan, sekali gus mengalihkan tumpuan pelancong elit ke Malaysia. 

"Momentum ini turut memacu sektor penerbangan komersial, dengan syarikat seperti AirAsia X dijangka mencatat rekod penumpang tertinggi menjelang Tahun Melawat Malaysia 2026. 

"Situasi ini juga dijangka mewujudkan aliran imbangan perjalanan tunai bersih yang berlebihan, menyumbang kepada kestabilan dan potensi pengukuhan nilai ringgit," katanya. 

BIMB Securities Research menegaskan limpahan ekonomi daripada ketibaan pelancong elit itu membuktikan Malaysia berjaya memanfaatkan kedudukan strategik serta imej keselamatan bagi terus merangsang pertumbuhan, khususnya dalam sektor pelancongan dan perdagangan domestik.

-berita harian online.

Vanzo Launches Its First Body Perfume Jointly Recommended By Tourism Malaysia As A Malaysia Fragrance Souvenir

 

KUALA LUMPUR, 7 March 2026 — Southeast Asia’s first publicly listed fragrance brand VANZO today launched its first body perfume, Ylang Bloom Eau de Parfum, at Pavilion Kuala Lumpur. The event drew distinguished guests and media, marking the brand’s entry into the personal fragrance category.

Deputy Director General (Promotions II) of Tourism Malaysia, YBrs. Mr. Lee Thai Hung, was also present at the launch, reflecting the tourism authority’s support for local brand development.

As an official partner of Visit Malaysia 2026, VANZO also aims to strengthen the link between fragrance culture and Malaysia’s tourism promotion.

Previously known for its car and home fragrances, the introduction of this Eau de Parfum represents the brand’s expansion from scenting spaces to personal fragrance.

The perfume centers around Malaysia’s Ylang Ylang, a tropical flower familiar in local traditions. With its soft yet distinctive scent, the fragrance reinterprets this culturally meaningful note through a modern perfumery approach.

VANZO Founder and CEO Eddie Ng said the brand hopes the fragrance will allow more travelers to experience Malaysia through scent.

The launch also featured Malaysian singer Shila Amzah as the brand’s Creative Collaboration Friend. She created a limited-edition illustrated postcard inspired by Ylang Ylang and Malaysian elements, included with every purchase.

The VANZO Ylang Bloom Eau de Parfum is now available at VANZO kiosks nationwide and on the official website: https://vanzoasia.com/ylang-bloom-eau-de-parfum

-Tourism Malaysia.

The Launching Of Explore Sabah 2026

 

BERLIN, 4 March 2026- Sabah offers a truly distinctive travel experience, blending nature, culture, and adventure in a way that supports and benefits local communities. This vision is captured in its tagline, “Explore Sabah, North Borneo – Naturally Inspiring, Beyond Ordinary.”

The timing is strategic, as Sabah prepares for its Visit Sabah Year 2027 campaign. With this milestone on the horizon, the tourism board is actively building momentum and strengthening international awareness well in advance.

-Tourism Malaysia.

Larrie Celebrates Ramadan Iftar 2026 In Support Of Visit Malaysia 2026

 

Kuala Lumpur, 3rd March 2026 — LARRIE, a renowned family business in the fashion and footwear industry, proudly hosted its Ramadan Iftar 2026 event at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre. This special occasion marked a significant step in strengthening Malaysia's position as a top global tourism destination, in collaboration with Tourism Malaysia and the Visit Malaysia 2026 campaign; LARRIE, ANAK MALAYSIA for VISIT MALAYSIA 2026.

The event was graced by the presence of Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture Malaysia’s team, alongside distinguished guests, media representatives, and friends of LARRIE. Highlighting the strategic partnership, Lenson Chong, LARRIE Marketing Director shared, “Today’s gathering signifies a vital collaboration between LARRIE and Tourism Malaysia. Together, we aim to promote Malaysia’s hidden gems and cultural richness through our ‘Discover Malaysia’s Hidden Gems with LARRIE campaign, which will feature prominently across all our stores and online platforms.” LARRIE also announced its exciting “Travel with LARRIE” contest, offering customers a chance to win a fully sponsored trip — an initiative that has garnered thousands of entries since its launch last year, and will continue annually to encourage tourism and brand engagement.

The event program included inspiring speeches, cultural performances such as gamelan and zapin dances, and a heartfelt doa recitation. The evening culminated in a communal breaking of fast (berbuka puasa), fostering a spirit of unity and patriotism during this holy month.

Immediately after berbuka puasa, the event continued with special awards presentations, including the TikTok Excellence Award and the LARRIE Top Sales Performance Award, recognizing outstanding achievements and engagement in the brand’s community.

The Ramadan Iftar 2026 event not only celebrated the spirit of Ramadan and Malaysia’s diverse culture but also reinforced LARRIE’s commitment to supporting Visit Malaysia 2026 and promoting Malaysia on the world stage.

LARRIE remains dedicated to fostering Malaysia’s tourism industry and promoting patriotic pride through meaningful initiatives like this Ramadan Iftar. We look forward to a successful year ahead in supporting Visit Malaysia 2026 and showcasing Malaysia’s beauty to the world.

-Tourism Malaysia.

Grab Malaysia Introduces 5-Stars Eats, In-App Food Guide Endorsed By Tourism Malaysia, For Visit Malaysia 2026

 

KUALA LUMPUR, 6 March 2026 – With Visit Malaysia Year 2026 (VMY2026) up and running, food is the strongest driver for travellers, with 87% of tourists choosing their next destination based on local cuisine. Recognising the shift from traditional guidebooks to digital-first discovery, Grab is turning data into discovery with the launch of 5-Star Eats, Malaysia’s In-app Food Guide. Endorsed by Tourism Malaysia as part of a strategic partnership to drive the gastrotourism sector in support of VMY 2026, the platform transforms authentic customer opinions into a trusted national food guide within the Grab app, connecting travellers to the country’s best local dining experiences. To mark the launch, a new street-art Grab 5-Star Eats Mural @ Jalan Hang Kasturi was unveiled, marking the connection between digital discovery and the city’s vibrant, on-ground food scene.

Grab’s 5-Star Eats reimagines traditional food guides in the form of a digital-first, interactive discovery experience within the Grab app. Powered by authentic customer ratings on a 0–5 scale, the 5-Star Eats badge highlights merchants who consistently deliver exceptional quality and service. Travellers can seamlessly browse curated eateries by region and category, navigate to locations, and enjoy integrated ride-and-dine solutions within one platform. By combining trust, convenience, and real-time reviews, Grab modernises how travellers explore Malaysia’s culinary landscape.

At the heart of 5-Star Eats is recognition. Beyond discovery, the initiative elevates highly rated small and medium food businesses, positioning them as must-visit culinary destinations. 5-Star Eats spotlights merchants who consistently receive outstanding customer feedback, giving them national visibility and credibility. Available nationwide, Grab 5-Star Eats strengthens local culinary ecosystems across Malaysia while supporting tourism growth. By turning customer trust into national recognition, Grab empowers local eateries to actively participate in Malaysia’s gastrotourism scene.

To bring 5-Star Eats beyond the app, Grab has commissioned a landmark Grab 5-Star Eats Mural along Jalan Hang Kasturi, near the Pasar Seni area, serving as a physical expression of Malaysia’s In-app Food Guide. Conceptualised and brought to life by homegrown Malaysian artist Nasuha Ibrahim, the Grab 5-Star Eats Mural @ Jalan Hang Kasturi transforms an ordinary wall into a visual celebration of flavours and cultures that defines Malaysian heritage.

With VMY 2026 highlighting gastronomy, culture, and authentic experiences, Grab demonstrates that it is more than a platform, it is a partner in Malaysia’s tourism journey. By combining digital innovation, customer experiences, and cultural storytelling, Grab creates unforgettable moments while supporting local communities and empowering Malaysia’s vibrant food ecosystem.

-Tourism Malaysia.

Mega Fam Trip 2026 Iftar Ramadan

 

Tourism Malaysia melalui Bahagian Komunikasi Korporat telah menganjurkan Mega FamTrip 2026 Iftar Ramadan dari 27 Februari hingga 3 Mac 2026 di sekitar Kuala Lumpur dan Putrajaya.

Program ini melibatkan seramai 24 peserta yang terdiri daripada wakil media dan pempengaruh tempatan dari negara ASEAN seperti Singapura, Indonesia, Thailand, Brunei, Filipina, Laos dan Kemboja, serta pegawai Tourism Malaysia bagi merasai sendiri kemeriahan iftar dan suasana Ramadan di Malaysia.

Antara lokasi ikonik yang dilawati termasuk Seri Negara, The Exchange TRX, Bangunan Sultan Abdul Samad dan Menara Kuala Lumpur. Selain itu, peserta turut menerokai tarikan utama di Kuala Lumpur dan Putrajaya termasuk Iftar@KL serta Festival Ramadan Putrajaya.

Program ini bertujuan memberi pengalaman imersif kepada peserta sekali gus memperkukuh liputan promosi berkaitan budaya, gastronomi dan destinasi ikonik Malaysia. Inisiatif ini selaras dengan aspirasi kempen VM2026 untuk mengetengahkan Malaysia sebagai destinasi utama pelancongan berteraskan gastronomi di rantau ini.

-Tourism Malaysia.

Cuckoo Malaysia Named Strategic Partner For Visit Malaysia 2026, Debuts First Mascot ‘Hepi' In Holistic Push To Scale Health And Happiness

 

KUALA LUMPUR, 4 March 2026 – CUCKOO International (MAL) Berhad (“CUCKOO Malaysia”), a Healthy Home Creator, today hosted a landmark Buka Puasa event themed “Sebar HEPI, Hargai Setiap Kebahagiaan”. The evening was packed with announcements reinforcing the Company’s commitment to fostering healthier lifestyles while extending its mission to champion the happiness that stems from a well-cared-for home, reaching beyond from local households to a global audience.

“For years, our mission has been to improve the standard of living through our efforts to integrate wellness into every home. But we believe that health is the foundation upon which happiness is built. By aligning our growth with national milestones like Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026) and introducing HEPI as the face of our mission, we are scaling our impact from private households to public spaces.

This is a deliberate, holistic movement to ensure that our promise of a healthier, happier life is delivered at every touchpoint of the Malaysian experience,” said CUCKOO Malaysia Non-Independent Executive Director and CEO, Mr. Hoe Kian Choon (KC Hoe).

At the eventful evening, CUCKOO Malaysia unveiled a series of landmark announcements including its appointment as a Strategic Partner for Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026) and the expansion of its water stations across KLIA Terminal 1 and Terminal 2, as well as confirming the continuation of the ambassadorship of Dato’ Sri Siti Nurhaliza and Phei Yong, and the official debut of its first-ever mascot, HEPI.

-Tourism Malaysia.

Lufthansa launches nonstop connection from Frankfurt to Kuala Lumpur

 

KUALA LUMPUR: Lufthansa Airlines will launch nonstop flights from Kuala Lumpur to Frankfurt, strengthening its network in Southeast Asia as it focuses on growth in a dynamic region. 

From Oct 25 this year, the connection will be offered five times a week all year around – daily except for Tuesdays and Thursdays. Flights can be booked immediately. 

Flight LH 704 departs at 9:30pm in Frankfurt and arrives in Kuala Lumpur at 4:40pm local time the following day. 

The return flight LH 705 takes off at 11:55pm in Kuala Lumpur and lands at 6:00am the following day in the Rhine-Main metropolis. 

These flight times are optimally coordinated with Lufthansa's worldwide network from Frankfurt and offer travelers ideal connection possibilities.

The flight will be operated by the new Boeing 787, the most modern and efficient aircraft in the Lufthansa fleet.

Jens Ritter, chief executive officer of Lufthansa Airlines, said: "With the new nonstop connection to Kuala Lumpur and the deployment of our state-of-the-art Dreamliner, we are creating ideal conditions to participate in the growth in Southeast Asia. 

"The innovative Allegris cabin offers our guests the highest comfort and highlights underscore our premium aspiration to offer both leisure travelers and business travelers a first-class travel experience." 

Malaysia: Attractive destination for tourism and business 

Lufthansa said Malaysia is a very popular destination for both leisure travellers and business travellers. 

"With 42.2 million visitors in 2025, Malaysia was the most visited country in Southeast Asia. The country's cultural diversity, natural beauty, and historical significance make it a unique travel destination." 

Malaysia is also economically strong and growing rapidly, it added. 

Germany is Malaysia's most important trading partner in the European Union, and over 700 German companies are based in Malaysia. 

Lufthansa sees significant growth potential in the region and is specifically focusing on the development of this destination. 

From the Lufthansa Group home markets (Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Belgium and Italy), Lufthansa will be the only airline with nonstop flights to Malaysia. 

This makes Kuala Lumpur the third Lufthansa Group destination in Southeast Asia, alongside Bangkok, Singapore and Phuket, it said.

-nst online.

Malaysia Pavilion Launching At ITB Berlin 2026

 

GERMANY, 3 March 2026 - The Malaysia Pavilion was officially launched on 3 March 2026 at ITB Berlin, at Berlin ExpoCenter City, reaffirming Malaysia’s strong and strategic presence at the world’s leading travel trade exhibition.

The ceremony was officiated by Mr. Mohd Amirul Rizal Abdul Rahim, Director General of Tourism Malaysia and graced by H.E. Mohamad Razdan Jamil, Ambassador-designate of Malaysia to the Federal Republic of Germany together with YB Datuk Wira Abdul Razak Haji Abdul Rahman (Malacca State Executive Council for Tourism, Heritage, Arts and Culture), YB Datuk Kamarudin Md Nor (Kelantan State Executive Council of Tourism, Culture, Arts & Heritage), YB Mdm. Leong Yu Man (Pahang State Executive Council for Unity, Tourism and Culture), Ms. Chua Yee Ling (Chief Executive Officer of Tourism Selangor), Mr. Julinus Jeffery Jimit (Chief Executive Officer of the Sabah Tourism Board) and Dr. Azmil Munif Mohd Bukhari (Tourism Manager of LADA).

Spanning 988 sqm at Hall 26, Booth 103; the Pavilion brings together 81 organisations and over 130 Malaysian tourism industry players, showcasing Malaysia’s diverse destinations, rich cultural heritage and world-class travel experiences in conjunction with Visit Malaysia 2026.

Malaysia’s growing momentum in the European market further reinforces this strong participation, with 1.69 million visitors from Europe recorded in 2025, reflecting a 13.2% increase compared to 2024. Germany alone contributed 188,928 visitors, marking a 10.7% year-on-year growth and reaffirming its position as a key high-value source market. Over the next three days, the Pavilion will host business meetings, destination presentations and cultural showcases aimed at strengthening strategic partnerships and generating tangible outcomes for the 2026 - 2027 period.

-Tourism Malaysia.

Labuan International Sea Challenge 2026 @ Kompleks Sukan Laut Antarabangsa Labuan ( 28 April ~ 3 Mei 2026 )

 

Bersedia untuk cabaran laut paling epik di Labuan!

Labuan International Sea Challenge (LISC) 2026 edisi ke 28,  kembali lagi  pada 28 April – 3 Mei 2026 bertempat di Kompleks Sukan Laut Antarabangsa Labuan (KSLA) dengan 5 acara utama dan 10 acara sokongan yang lebih meriah, ekstrem dan penuh aksi.

Acara utama seperti Deep Sea Fishing Challenge, Round Island Kayak Race, Kayak Mini Marathon, Regatta Race 3.0 dan Cross Channel Swimming Challenge bakal menguji ketahanan & semangat para peserta dari seluruh dunia.

Ditambah pula dengan pelbagai acara sokongan seperti bola tampar pantai, bola sepak pantai, petanque pantai, silat pantai, sukaneka pantai, memancing pesisir pantai, e-sukan MLBB, Moonlight Fun Walk,  jualan rahmah dan banyak lagi!

LISC merupakan salah satu acara ikonik Labuan yang sentiasa menarik pelancong dari pelbagai negara.

Jom sertai & rasai sendiri debarannya!

-Labuan Tourism.

Norwegian Sun docks in KK with over 1,800 passengers

 

KOTA KINABALU: The Norwegian Sun cruise ship arrived here at around 9am on Monday, bringing a total of 1,818 passengers and 889 crew members to Sabah’s shores.

According to a Facebook post by Sabah, Malaysian Borneo, the Sabah Tourism Board (STB) extended a warm welcome to the visitors and thanked them for choosing the State capital as part of their journey.

The visitors are expected to explore the city and nearby attractions, experiencing Sabahan hospitality, local culture and natural beauty during their stopover.

From Mount Kinabalu to the rich marine life along its coasts, Sabah continues to position itself as a top cruise destination under the #VisitMalaysia2026 campaign.

-Daily Express.

Tourism Malaysia Hosts Mega Fam Iftar 2026 Programme In Support Of Visit Malaysia 2026

 

PUTRAJAYA — Tourism Malaysia marks the return of its Mega Fam Iftar 2026 programme from 27 February to 3 March 2026 in support of Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026). This programme aims to strengthen engagement with media practitioners and travel trade partners across ASEAN, while positioning Malaysia as a premier destination for cultural and gastronomic tourism.

The programme will bring together 24 media representatives and travel agents from seven ASEAN countries namely Singapore, Brunei, Indonesia, Thailand, the Philippines, Laos and Cambodia to experience Malaysia’s vibrant iftar celebrations and Ramadan festivities.

Mr. Mohd. Amirul Rizal Abdul Rahim, Director General of Tourism Malaysia, stated, “Iftar@KL organised by Jabatan Kebudayaan dan Kesenian Negara (JKKN) and Festival Ramadan Putrajaya by Perbadanan Putrajaya have been listed in the Calendar of Events (CoE) for Visit Malaysia 2026.

To ensure the success of both events, Tourism Malaysia is organising Mega Fam Iftar 2026 for ASEAN media and travel agents, offering an immersive first-hand experience while amplifying promotional coverage of Malaysia’s culture, gastronomy and iconic destinations. This initiative aligns with the objectives of the VM2026 campaign to position Malaysia as a world-class cultural and gastronomic tourism destination.”

A central highlight of Mega Fam Iftar 2026 is the celebration of Malaysia’s rich and distinctive culinary heritage. The programme showcases the nation’s iconic iftar traditions and vibrant Ramadan bazaars; experiences that embody the spirit of togetherness, strong family values and unity within Malaysia’s multicultural communities. These authentic cultural expressions present a compelling tourism proposition, reinforcing Malaysia’s standing as a leading gastronomy-driven destination in the region. 

Participants will embark on a five-day, four-night immersive journey exploring iconic destinations and cultural highlights in Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya. The itinerary features Iftar@KL and visits to Festival Ramadan Putrajaya, as well as curated experiences at Seri Negara, The Exchange TRX, Sultan Abdul Samad Building and KL Tower. Both Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya were strategically selected as host destinations in view of their stature as key international gateways and administrative centres, offering participants a comprehensive perspective of Malaysia’s urban vibrancy and cultural identity. 

In 2025, Malaysia welcomed 42.2 million visitors, reflecting a significant 11.2 per cent increase compared to 2024. While these figures are encouraging, substantial growth potential remains. Through continued collaboration and shared commitment with industry and media partners, Tourism Malaysia is confident of achieving even more sustainable growth in this key market. 

Tourism Malaysia extends its appreciation to all participants of the Mega Fam Iftar 2026 programme for their support and looks forward to strengthening joint promotional initiatives to showcase Malaysia’s diverse attractions, alongside its rich cultural and culinary heritage, in support of Visit Malaysia 2026.

-Tourism Malaysia.

Put politics aside to grow tourism, says Tourism Malaysia deputy chairman

 

PETALING JAYA: Political differences should never stand in the way of advancing and expanding Malaysia’s tourism industry, says Datuk Yeoh Soon Hin. 

The Tourism Malaysia deputy chairman added that government efforts to promote tourism must not be politicised or tied to racial issues, stressing that all political parties should work together to revitalise the national economy through the sector.

“We can work together to promote Perlis’ unique rural and natural charm, which holds strong appeal for European and Western tourists,” he said in a statement here on Saturday (Feb 28). 

Yeoh said this following a courtesy visit to the Perlis Mentri Besar, Abu Bakar Hamzah, during which they discussed strengthening federal–state cooperation in conjunction with Visit Malaysia Year 2026 and Visit Perlis Year 2026. 

He described the meeting as cordial and constructive, with both parties agreeing that tourism is a key engine of economic growth. 

Yeoh commended Abu Bakar for fostering cooperation between the federal and state governments.

-thestar online.

Tourist arrivals rise 11.2pct to 42.19 million, exceed global growth rate

 

PUTRAJAYA: Malaysia recorded 42.19 million tourist arrivals last year, an 11.2 per cent increase that outpaced global and regional growth rates. 

Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil said the figures, presented by the Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry at the cabinet meeting today, were up from 37.96 million visitors in 2024. 

"The 11.2 per cent growth rate exceeds the global average increase of four per cent and the six per cent growth recorded for visitor arrivals in the Asia-Pacific region. 

"This reflects Malaysia's continued appeal and the confidence of international visitors in the country as a leading destination," he said at a press conference here today. 

The government has set a target of attracting 47 million international tourists and generating RM329 billion in revenue in conjunction with Visit Malaysia Year 2026. 

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced that more than RM700 million has been allocated for promotional activities and the organisation of events, along with an additional RM50 million to support arts and heritage practitioners this year.

Meanwhile, Fahmi said Phase One of the Media Innovation Fund, held from Jan 1 to 14, received 50 applications from media organisations. 

"Of that, 34 media organisations were approved, involving total funding of RM10.3 million. 

"This reflects the industry's readiness to embrace progressive transformation, particularly in content technology and talent development," he said. 

He added that Phase Two, which ran from Feb 9 to 22, saw participation from 19 media organisations, while Phase Three will open this Sunday until March 14. 

"This shows industry players remain committed to innovating and adapting their business models to current needs and realities," he said.

-nst online.

Bubur Lambuk Resepi Warisan – inisiatif Tourism Malaysia Mengangkat Diplomasi Makanan Dab Budaya

 

PUTRAJAYA, 27 Februari 2026 - Bersempena dengan kempen Visit Malaysia 2026, Tourism Malaysia membawa inisiatif baru bagi para pegawai Tourism untuk meraikan warisan makanan Malaysia dan semarakkan bulan Ramadan ini dengan program agihan Bubur Lambuk yang dianjurkan bersama dengan Tourism Malaysia, Islamic Tourism Center dan Surau Mutmainnah, Motac.

Program ini disempurnakan dengan kehadiran Ketua Setiausaha Kementerian Pelancongan, Seni dan Budaya, YBhg. Dato’ Shaharuddin bin Abu Sohot. Turut  bersama Timbalan Ketua Setiausaha Kementerian Pelancongan, Seni dan Budaya, YBrs. Encik Chua Choon Hwa serta barisan tertinggi Tourism Malaysia, yang diketuai oleh Ketua Pengarah Tourism Malaysia, YBrs. En Mohd Amirul Rizal Abd Rahim.

Tumpuan utama program ini ialah penyediaan 5 stesen memasak berskala besar (periuk kawah), yang akan menyaksikan penglibatan aktif para peserta dalam proses penyediaan Bubur Lambuk. Sesi ini telah dikendalikan oleh chef selebriti tersohor, Chef Dr. Liza Zainol, yang mengadakan demonstrasi masakan secara langsung sambil membimbing para peserta berkenaan teknik penyediaan tradisional serta kepentingan setiap ramuan yang digunakan.

Para peserta bukan sahaja berpeluang menyaksikan demonstrasi tersebut, malah akan terlibat secara menyeluruh dalam pengalaman memasak secara amali, sekaligus memupuk semangat kerjasama, interaksi dan pertukaran budaya dalam suasana yang harmoni.

Selain itu,terdapat peserta jemputan daripada komuniti Muslim Cina dari China yang juga turut serta bersama peserta tempatan, sekaligus memperkukuh usaha diplomasi budaya melalui perkongsian tradisi kulinari. Penyertaan komuniti Muslim Cina ini diatur oleh Encik Abdullah Her (Sign Travel dan Ketua Komuniti di Malaysia).

Melalui inisiatif ini, Tourism Malaysia dapat mempromosikan warisan kulinari Malaysia di peringkat antarabangsa, di samping memperkukuh diplomasi budaya melalui perkongsian tradisi masakan yang menjadi identiti bersama.

Program ini turut menggalakkan pemeliharaan resipi tradisional agar terus diwarisi oleh generasi akan datang, selain mewujudkan penglibatan yang bermakna antara komuniti tempatan dan peserta antarabangsa.

Secara keseluruhannya, program ini telah mencerminkan semangat perpaduan, kepelbagaian dan keramahan Malaysia yang menyatukan masyarakat melalui tradisi, cita rasa serta penghayatan budaya.

-Tourism Malaysia.