Tourism industry hits RM323bil, contributes 15.9pct to Malaysia's economy

 

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia's tourism industry generated RM323 billion in value added in 2025, contributing 15.9 per cent to the country's gross domestic product (GDP), according to the Department of Statistics Malaysia (DOSM). 

The Tourism Satellite Account 2025 report showed that the industry expanded 8.6 per cent last year, up from 7.8 per cent in 2024, driven by strong demand from inbound and domestic tourism expenditure. 

Internal tourism expenditure rose 15.2 per cent to RM236.9 billion in 2025, from RM205.6 billion a year earlier. 

Inbound tourism expenditure accounted for 52.7 per cent of total internal tourism expenditure, while domestic tourism expenditure made up the remaining 47.3 per cent. 

Inbound tourism expenditure surged 16.5 per cent to RM124.8 billion, compared with a 41.3 per cent increase in 2024. 

Tourists accounted for 95.6 per cent of inbound tourism expenditure, while excursionists made up 4.4 per cent.

Domestic tourism expenditure also grew 13.8 per cent to RM112.1 billion, compared with 25.1 per cent growth in 2024. 

Tourists accounted for 58.3 per cent of domestic tourism expenditure, while excursionists contributed 41.7 per cent. 

Retail trade made up the largest share of tourism industry's value added at 50.6 per cent, followed by food and beverage at 16.4 per cent and country-specific tourism characteristic services, including health and meeting, incentive, conference and exhibition activities, at 13.1 per cent. 

Accommodation contributed 9.3 per cent, while cultural, sports and recreational activities accounted for 4.3 per cent. 

Meanwhile, tourism-related industries employed 3.7 million people in 2025, representing 22.1 per cent of total employment in Malaysia. 

Employment in the tourism-related industries grew 3.5 per cent last year, compared with 4.6 per cent in 2024. 

Retail trade was the largest contributor to tourism-related employment at 37.9 per cent, followed by food and beverage serving services at 36.7 per cent and country-specific tourism characteristic services at 10.5 per cent. 

Together, the three subsectors accounted for 85.1 per cent of total employment in tourism-related industries.

-nst online.

Tourism Malaysia And Emirates Airlines Strategic Partnership Empower Connectivity Strengthening Visit Malaysia 2026-2027 Campaign

 

DUBAI, 14 September 2026- Emirates renews its strategic partnership with Tourism Malaysia through a one-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen connectivity and drive inbound tourism to Malaysia from the UAE, the wider Middle East and Emirates’ global network at Arabian Travel Market.

The agreement was signed by Mr. Orhan Abbas, Emirates’ Senior Vice President, Commercial Operations, Far East, and Mr. Mohd Amirul Rizal Abdul Rahim, Director General, Tourism Malaysia, and witnessed by Mr. Chua Choon Hwa, Deputy Secretary General (Tourism), Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture Malaysia, and H.E. Tengku Dato' Sirajuzzaman bin Tengku Mohamed Ariffin, Ambassador of Malaysia to the UAE.

The partnership supports Visit Malaysia 2026–2027, targeting 47 million foreign visitor arrivals and RM329 billion in tourism receipts, through joint marketing, global promotion, media and travel trade familiarisation programmes, and collaboration at the Arabian Travel Market.

Together, Emirates and Tourism Malaysia aim to attract more high-value travellers, encourage longer stays and increase tourism expenditure, further strengthening Malaysia’s position as a preferred destination in the region.

-Tourism Malaysia.

Warna-warni Budaya Malaysia Menghidupkan Suasana Di Tengah Kota

 

KUALA LUMPUR | Taman Tasik Titiwangsa tampil meriah sempena Majlis Perasmian Festival Budaya Malaysia (FBM) 2026, dengan persembahan penuh warna yang mengetengahkan keunikan seni, budaya dan warisan daripada pelbagai latar masyarakat di Malaysia.

Majlis telah dirasmikan oleh YB Dato Sri Tiong King Sing, Menteri Pelancongan, Seni dan Budaya. Turut menghadiri, YBhg. Dato’ Shaharuddin bin Abu Sohot, Ketua Setiausaha, Kementerian Pelancongan, Seni dan Budaya; En. Wizani bin Rosmin, Timbalan Ketua Pengarah (Perancangan) Tourism Malaysia; En. Mohd Akbal Setia,Timbalan Ketua Pengarah (Promosi) Tourism Malaysia dan Ketua Sekretriat Visit Malaysia 2026; En. Lee Thai Hung, Timbalan Ketua Pengarah (Promosi II) Tourism Malaysia dan tetamu kehormat yang lain.

Dan kemeriahan masih belum berakhir! Jom rasai sendiri kepelbagaian budaya Malaysia menerusi persembahan, makanan tradisional dan pelbagai aktiviti menarik sepanjang festival berlangsung.

Lokasi: Taman Tasik Titiwangsa, Kuala Lumpur

Tarikh: 11–16 September 2026

Masa: 9.00 pagi–12.00 tengah malam

Jom raikan warna, tradisi dan budaya yang menjadikan Malaysia begitu istimewa!

-Tourism Malaysia.

Visit Malaysia Truly Asia Run 2026

 

KUALA LUMPUR, 13 September 2026 | Program Visit Malaysia Truly Asia Run 2026 telah berlangsung dengan jayanya di Dataran DBKL, Kuala Lumpur. Program ini dianjurkan oleh Persatuan Rekreasi Wilayah sebagai salah satu inisiatif yang menggalakkan gaya hidup sihat serta menyemarakkan kempen Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026).

Program ini telah dihadiri oleh YBhg. Dato’ Shaharuddin Abu Sohot, Ketua Setiausaha Kementerian Pelancongan, Seni dan Budaya (MOTAC); YBhg. Datuk Muhammad Azmi Mohd Zain, Ketua Pengarah Jabatan Wilayah Persekutuan; YBrs. Encik Wizani Rosmin, Timbalan Ketua Pengarah (Perancangan), Tourism Malaysia; serta YBrs. Encik Ismadi Sakirin, Pengarah Eksekutif Pembangunan (Sosioekonomi), Dewan Bandaraya Kuala Lumpur (DBKL), yang turut menyempurnakan sesi pelepasan peserta (flag-off) dan majlis penyampaian hadiah kepada para pemenang.

Selain memupuk semangat kesukanan dan rekreasi dalam kalangan masyarakat, program ini juga menyokong usaha mempromosikan Malaysia sebagai destinasi pelancongan utama, sejajar dengan aspirasi Kempen Visit Malaysia 2026.

-Tourism Malaysia.

Kunjungan Ketua Pengarah Tourism Malaysia Ke Reruai Festival Budaya Malaysia 2026

 

KUALA LUMPUR, 13 September 2026 | Ketua Pengarah Tourism Malaysia, Ybrs. En. Mohd Amirul Rizal Abdul Rahim telah berkunjung ke reruai Tourism Malaysia di Festival Budaya Malaysia (FBM) 2026, bertempat di Taman Tasik Titiwangsa, Kuala Lumpur. Beliau turut berkesempatan bertemu serta beramah mesra dengan para pempamer yang mengambil bahagian dalam festival ini.

Berlangsung dari 11 hingga 16 September 2026, FBM 2026 merupakan sebuah platform yang mengetengahkan kepelbagaian seni, budaya dan warisan Malaysia menerusi pelbagai persembahan kebudayaan, makanan warisan dan makanan popular, kraftangan serta produk tempatan, permainan tradisional dan aktiviti interaktif. Festival ini turut menampilkan 12 program dan aktiviti baharu untuk dinikmati oleh pengunjung.

Kunjungan ini menjadi platform yang bermakna untuk berinteraksi, bertukar pandangan serta mengeratkan hubungan bersama para pemain industri dalam usaha memperkukuh sektor pelancongan Malaysia, di samping memperkasa promosi kepelbagaian budaya dan warisan negara kepada pengunjung tempatan serta antarabangsa.

Jom raikan keunikan seni, budaya dan warisan Malaysia di Festival Budaya Malaysia 2026!

Lokasi: Taman Tasik Titiwangsa, Kuala Lumpur

Tarikh: 11 – 16 September 2026

Masa: 9.00 pagi – 12.00 tengah malam

Masuk Percuma!

-Tourism Malaysia.

JYNNS Opens Wellness Treasure Flagship Store At Pavilion Kuala Lumpur, Bringing Malaysia’s Natural Treasures To The Heart Of The City

 

KUALA LUMPUR, 12 September 2026 – Following the opening of MyTreasure at Kuala Lumpur International Airport Terminal 2, Malaysian wellness brand JYY Group is bringing “Malaysia’s Natural Treasures” further into one of the country’s key international tourism landmarks with the official opening of the JYNNS Wellness Treasure Flagship Store at Pavilion Kuala Lumpur. Extending its presence from Malaysia’s international aviation gateway to the heart of Kuala Lumpur’s tourism and shopping district, JYY Group aims to create more touchpoints where travellers can discover Malaysia’s rich natural resources, local flavours and take home a meaningful memory of Malaysia.

The opening ceremony was officiated by YBrs Mohd Akbal Setia, Deputy Director General of Tourism Malaysia and Head of the Visit Malaysia Secretariat  2026–2027, reflecting the aspiration of Visit Malaysia 2026–2027, alongside Mr. Samuel Lee Thai Hung, Deputy Director General of Tourism Malaysia to showcase more Malaysian tourism products, experiences and homegrown brands to an international audience.

“We are pleased to see homegrown companies such as JYY Group creating more opportunities for international visitors to discover what Malaysia has to offer within the Golden Triangle. Such initiatives enrich the visitor experience while bringing more Malaysian products, experiences and stories to an international audience,” said En Mohd Akbal Setia.

The opening of JYNNS at Pavilion Kuala Lumpur now extends this experience from Malaysia’s international aviation gateway into the heart of Kuala Lumpur. Its earlier MyTreasure concept at Kuala Lumpur International Airport Terminal 2 brings together Malaysian natural wellness products, distinctive gifts and cultural experiences, providing international travellers with a gateway to discovering the country’s treasures.

Alann Tan, Founder and Group CEO of JYY Group, said: “From Kuala Lumpur International Airport Terminal 2 to Pavilion Kuala Lumpur, we want to create more windows for international travellers to discover Malaysia’s natural resources, flavours and stories. Our goal is to see more great Malaysian products recognised locally and given the opportunity to reach the world.”

Nicholas Teo Continues as JYNNS Trigona Honey Series Brand Ambassador

Another highlight of the grand opening was the appearance of Malaysian singer and actor Nicholas Teo, who continues his partnership with JYNNS as Brand Ambassador for the JYNNS Trigona Honey Series. Nicholas Teo also took on the role of “Store Manager for a Day”, fans meet at the new flagship store.

There is also a special East Malaysian connection behind the collaboration. Nicholas, who hails from Kuching, Sarawak, and JYNNS’ Trigona honey sourced from the pristine highlands of Malaysian Borneo, both have their roots in East Malaysia. Bringing these two homegrown stories together, Nicholas joins hands with JYNNS to introduce Malaysian natural treasure to a wider audience.

Nicholas Teo said: “I’m very happy to continue working with JYNNS and to introduce more people to a natural treasure that belongs to Malaysia. Trigona honey is a uniquely Malaysian natural resource, and today it is being introduced into our everyday lives in ways that are younger, more modern and more convenient. I also look forward to introducing Trigona honey to more friends overseas and, through it, helping them discover even more great things from Malaysia.

In conjunction with the flagship opening, JYNNS also unveiled the latest addition to its Trigona Honey Series, JYNNS Trigona Honey Propolis Mouth Spray, bringing Malaysia’s natural treasure into a convenient format designed for modern, everyday oral care.

Marking a new milestone for the series, the new product also led to a significant discovery， its overall antibacterial activity was found to be three times higher in relevant testing, emerging as one of the key breakthroughs behind the innovation. The spray combines two natural Malaysian active ingredients: Trigona propolis, which demonstrated up to 99.9999% antibacterial activity in relevant testing and possesses anti-inflammatory properties, and Trigona honey, known for its Low Glycemic Index (Low GI) characteristics. Together, they bring the natural benefits of both ingredients into one convenient, everyday spray.

In a playful coincidence, the “3X” also echoes Nicholas Teo’s iconic “OK” hand gesture, giving his familiar signature a new meaning. Alcohol- and preservative-free, the compact mouth spray delivers sweet-tart Trigona honey notes with a refreshing hint of mint, bringing this Malaysian natural treasure into everyday wellness in a more modern and convenient format.

The launch marks JYNNS’ continued expansion of its Malaysian Trigona Series, bringing the homegrown natural resource beyond traditional wellness into more modern and convenient everyday formats.

Exclusive Grand Opening Privileges and Limited-Time Offers

To celebrate the official opening of the JYNNS Wellness Treasure Flagship Store and Malaysia’s National Month, JYNNS is introducing a series of limited-time privileges:

Complimentary JYNNS Trigona Propolis Mouth Spray with a minimum RM69 single-receipt purchase at any JYNNS outlet nationwide. Available until 16 September, while stocks last.

JYNNS Trigona Propolis Mouth Spray Buy 2 Free 1 launch promotion.

Malaysia Day Month Beverages: Tropical Pandan Honey Bliss, Golden Honey Asam Jasmine Tea and Honey Berry Jasmine Tea at RM15.90 each, with a Buy 1 Free 1 promotion (Until 30 September 2026)

Musang King Pandan Cloud Cake special promotional price of RM38 (Until 30 September 2026)

-Tourism Malaysia.

Tourism Malaysia Collaborates With MYSTA & Bike Aid Singapore To Boost Cycling Tourism

 

KLUANG — Tourism Malaysia is leveraging Ride for Rations 2026, a cross-border cycling event between Singapore and Malaysia, as a strategic platform to strengthen Malaysia’s position as an experiential sports tourism destination while developing new cycling tourism products for the international market.

Organised by Bike Aid Singapore, Ride for Rations has been held for 15 years and is entering its 16th edition this year. The 2026 edition takes place from 11 to 13 September 2026, covering the route from Singapore to Kluang and Batu Pahat, Johor, with approximately 70 cyclists and 30 support crew participating.

A total of seven cycling tourism packages, developed by five travel agencies, were officially launched today as part of the programme’s key highlights. The initiative marks a significant step towards expanding and diversifying Malaysia’s tourism offerings, particularly in cycling and sports tourism, while creating new opportunities for industry players and local communities.

-Tourism Malaysia.

Tourism Malaysia Strengthens Industry Partnership In Riyadh To Support Visit Malaysia 2026-2027

 

RIYADH — Following the successful Jeddah industry engagement in July, Tourism Malaysia reinforces its commitment to the Saudi market by hosting its second industry networking event in Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, marking another important milestone in expanding Malaysia’s presence in the country during Visit Malaysia 2026– 2027 (VM2026–2027). 

The exclusive gathering was graced by the presence of His Excellency Dato’ Syed Mohamad Bakri Syed Abdul Rahman, the Ambassador of Malaysia to Saudi Arabia, alongside Mr Zaidi Kassim, Director of Tourism Malaysia Jeddah, and over 80 valued strategic partners from the travel trade and media organisations in Riyadh, such as Gulf Air, Saudia and Almosafer.

Speaking at the event, Mr Zaidi Kassim reaffirmed the commitment to continue strengthening tourism promotional efforts in Saudi Arabia. He also highlighted that this initiative will renew the strategic move to elevate promotional efforts with Saudi industry players in response to the impact of the current geopolitical crisis in West Asia.

-Tourism Malaysia.

Tourism Malaysia, Sungei Wang Plaza Anjurkan Festival Muzik & Kebudayaan Musim Luruh

 

KUALA LUMPUR — Tourism Malaysia dengan kerjasama Sungei Wang Plaza bakal memeriahkan kawasan Bukit Bintang menerusi Festival Muzik & Kebudayaan Musim Luruh (Autumn Music & Cultural Festival) yang akan berlangsung dari 25 hingga 27 September 2026, sebagai platform untuk mengetengahkan kepelbagaian seni, budaya dan warisan Malaysia kepada masyarakat serta pelancong domestik dan antarabangsa. 

Dianjurkan bersempena dengan ulang tahun ke-50 Sungei Wang Plaza dan Kempen Melawat Malaysia 2026–2027 (VM2026–2027), festival ini mencerminkan usaha berterusan untuk memperkukuh tawaran pelancongan Malaysia bagi memeriahkan lagi acara pelancongan di Kuala Lumpur, serta membuka peluang lebih luas kepada penglibatan pengunjung dan pemain industri pelancongan. 

Festival ini turut menandakan penganjuran semula acara muzik dan kebudayaan berskala besar di sepanjang Jalan Sultan Ismail selepas hampir 14 tahun. Inisiatif ini mencerminkan potensi kerjasama strategik antara sektor awam dan swasta dalam mengaktifkan kawasan tumpuan pelancongan serta menyokong pertumbuhan industri pelancongan dan ekonomi setempat. 

KEMUNCAK FESTIVAL “AN AUTUMN REUNION” 

Festival selama tiga hari ini merupakan acara kemuncak “An Autumn Reunion” anjuran Sungei Wang Plaza yang berlangsung dari 4 hingga 27 September 2026 bersempena dengan sambutan Pesta Pertengahan Musim Luruh. 

Program ini mengetengahkan kepelbagaian seni, budaya dan warisan Malaysia menerusi pelbagai persembahan kebudayaan, termasuk Tarian Singa, Tarian Naga, persembahan kebudayaan India, Gendang Muhibbah, Zapin, Joget serta persembahan tarian pelbagai budaya. Mangunatip, iaitu persembahan tarian buluh interaktif, turut memberi peluang kepada pengunjung untuk mengambil bahagian dan merasai sendiri keunikan warisan budaya Malaysia. 

Selain itu, festival ini turut menampilkan persembahan muzik, aktiviti interaktif serta lebih daripada 50 gerai yang menawarkan makanan dan minuman, produk tempatan, hasil seni kreatif dan kraftangan. Festival ini dijangka menarik kira-kira 170,000 pengunjung, termasuk masyarakat setempat serta pelawat domestik dan antarabangsa, di samping mengetengahkan identiti masyarakat berbilang budaya Malaysia selaras dengan Kempen Melawat Malaysia 2026–2027. 

PENUTUPAN JALAN SEMENTARA DAN LENCONGAN LALU LINTAS 

Orang ramai dan pengguna jalan raya dimaklumkan bahawa penutupan sementara akan dilaksanakan di sebahagian Jalan Sultan Ismail, di hadapan Sungei Wang Plaza, bagi memastikan kelancaran penganjuran festival. Pengunjung disaran menggunakan pengangkutan awam sebagai pilihan utama untuk hadir ke festival bagi mengelakkan kesesakan lalu lintas serta memastikan perjalanan yang lebih lancar. 

Bahagian Jalan Sultan Ismail di hadapan PARKROYAL COLLECTION Kuala Lumpur dan Lot 10 Shopping Centre akan kekal dibuka, dengan pelan lencongan lalu lintas yang telah diluluskan bagi melancarkan pergerakan trafik di sekitar kawasan terlibat. 

Jadual Penutupan Jalan: 

24 September 2026: Penutupan jalan bermula pada 10.00 malam bagi kerja-kerja persediaan dan pemasangan.

25–27 September 2026: Bahagian jalan yang terlibat akan ditutup sepanjang tempoh festival.

27 September 2026: Kerja-kerja pembukaan dan penurunan struktur akan bermula pada 10.00 malam.

28 September 2026: Bahagian jalan terlibat dijangka dibuka semula pada 5.00 pagi.

AKSES KE SUNGEI WANG PLAZA 

Park & Ride

Kemudahan tempat letak kereta disediakan di beberapa stesen LRT terpilih termasuk Cempaka, Pandan Indah, Pandan Jaya, Pudu, Sungai Besi, PWTC, Salak Selatan dan Sentul di Laluan Ampang/Sri Petaling, serta Gombak, Taman Melati, Putra Heights dan Subang Alam di Laluan Kelana Jaya. Pengunjung boleh meneruskan perjalanan ke Bukit Bintang menggunakan rangkaian rel bandar dan Monorel KL. 

LRT dan Monorel KL

Pengunjung yang menggunakan Laluan Ampang/Sri Petaling boleh membuat pertukaran ke Monorel KL di stesen Hang Tuah atau Titiwangsa, manakala penumpang Laluan Kelana Jaya boleh membuat pertukaran di KL Sentral. Pengunjung hendaklah turun di Stesen Monorel Bukit Bintang yang mempunyai akses terus ke Aras 1 Sungei Wang Plaza melalui laluan pejalan kaki berbumbung. 

MRT

Pengunjung boleh turun di Stesen MRT Bukit Bintang, keluar melalui Pintu C, belok ke kanan dan berjalan kaki kira-kira 300 meter ke Sungei Wang Plaza. 

Bas Rapid KL

Perkhidmatan bas Rapid KL yang melalui kawasan Bukit Bintang turut disediakan. Pengunjung digalakkan menyemak laluan dan maklumat perkhidmatan terkini menerusi aplikasi MyRapid PULSE sebelum memulakan perjalanan. 

Perkhidmatan E-Hailing

Pengunjung yang menggunakan perkhidmatan e-hailing boleh memilih Pintu Masuk Utama Sungei Wang Plaza, Pintu Masuk Pelangi atau Pintu Masuk Sisi sebagai lokasi menurunkan penumpang, tertakluk kepada pengaturan lencongan lalu lintas sementara sepanjang festival.

-Tourism Malaysia.

Citrawarna Speed Festival 2026 Brings Malaysia’s Cultural Vibrancy To The World Of Speed

 

KUALA LUMPUR — Tourism Malaysia is set to showcase Citrawarna Speed Festival 2026 from 23 September to 4 October 2026, bringing together Malaysian culture and the excitement of motorsport. Citrawarna Speed Festival will feature cultural showcases, motorsport-inspired attractions and interactive experiences for the public as part of Visit Malaysia 2026–2027 (VM2026–2027). 

Taking place across IOI City Mall Putrajaya, Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) Terminal 1, and Sama-Sama Hotel, the festival will feature two key components: Colours of Speed and Colours of Art & Culture, with a range of activities presented across the participating locations. 

At Colours of Speed, visitors will be introduced to a range of motorsport-inspired showcases and interactive experiences, including a collection display featuring racing memorabilia and autographed items, as well as a showcase of iconic supercars. A key attraction will be the simulator competition at IOI City Mall Putrajaya, where members of the public can test their racing skills and compete through qualifying stages for the opportunity to advance to the final and win prizes. 

The festival will also highlight Malaysia’s diverse culture through Colours of Art & Culture, featuring cultural performances, music and dance, handicrafts and interactive activities representing traditions and communities from across the country. 

A major highlight of the cultural programme will be the Colours of Parade, featuring 1,500 dancers and cultural performers from different regions and communities across Malaysia. Featuring traditional music, dance, colourful costumes, and cultural expressions, the parade will provide a vibrant showcase of Malaysia’s diverse cultural heritage. 

Citrawarna Speed Festival 2026 receives support from various strategic partners, including Yes Travel & Holidays Sdn. Bhd., IOI Properties, the National Department for Culture and Arts (JKKN), Istana Budaya, Kraftangan Malaysia, Sama-Sama Hotel, Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad (MAHB), SNS Network, SDeal Malaysia Sim Racing & Motorsport and HP, among others. 

Through Citrawarna Speed Festival 2026, Tourism Malaysia aims to harness the motorsport appeal to draw wider audiences and showcase Malaysia’s rich cultural and tourism offerings. Malaysia continues to record positive growth in international visitor arrivals, with 21.1 million international visitor arrivals recorded from January to June 2026, marking a 2.5 per cent increase from 20.6 million during the same period in 2025. 

In support of VM2026–2027, the festival is expected to generate greater tourism activity and economic opportunities, while promoting cultural appreciation, benefiting local communities, and strengthening Malaysia’s position as a vibrant and competitive tourism destination. 

Further details of the Colours of Parade will be announced at a later date. Full competition rules, participation requirements, registration details, schedules and terms and conditions will be announced through the official Citrawarna Speed Festival social media channels.

-Tourism Malaysia.

Mongolia Travel Agents & KOLs Famtrip To Malaysia

 

KUALA LUMPUR, 9 September 2026 | Tourism Malaysia welcomed a delegation from Mongolia comprising 16 travel agents and three Key Opinion Leaders (KOLs) as part of a 4 days 3 night familiarisation trip (famtrip) hosted by HTC Travel Services (M) Sdn. Bhd. Mr. Lee Thai Hung, Deputy Director General (Promotion II) of Tourism Malaysia, was invited to attend the welcoming dinner for a networking session. The itinerary of famtrip was covered Putrajaya, Selangor, Pahang, Port Dickson, and Langkawi.

Furthermore, Tourism Malaysia is engaged in a joint promotion collaboration with Green Empire Holding LLC in Mongolia from July to December 2026. Additionally, between November and December 2026, a new charter route will operate a total of 15 direct flights from Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, to Malaysia.

-Tourism Malaysia.

Sun Pharma Star Club Awards 2026 Strengthens Malaysia’s Position As A Leading Mice Destination For India

 

KUALA LUMPUR — Malaysia continues to strengthen its position as a preferred destination for Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions (MICE) from India by hosting the Sun Pharma Star Club Awards 2026, bringing together approximately 6,200 participants from across India. The programme, which runs from 31 August to 9 September 2026, combines corporate recognition, incentive travel, and destination experiences across Kuala Lumpur, Port Dickson, Genting Highlands, and Putrajaya. 

A key highlight, the Star Club Awards 2026, was held today at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC), featuring an awards presentation and entertainment programme to celebrate the achievements of Sun Pharma’s Star Club members. 

The programme also included a high-level meeting between Tourism Malaysia, Malaysia Convention & Exhibition Bureau (MyCEB), and Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Limited, underscoring the importance of strengthening Malaysia-India tourism relations and exploring opportunities to attract more high-value corporate and MICE groups to Malaysia. 

In attendance were Datuk Manoharan Periasamy, Chairman of Tourism Malaysia; Mr Mohd Amirul Rizal Abdul Rahim, Director General of Tourism Malaysia; Mr Mohd Akbal Setia, Deputy Director General (Promotions) of Tourism Malaysia; Ms Tan Mei Phing, Chief Executive Officer of MyCEB; Mr Dilip Shanghvi, Executive Chairman of Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Limited; and Mr Kirti Ganorkar, Managing Director of Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Limited. 

Mr Mohd Amirul Rizal Abdul Rahim, Director General of Tourism Malaysia, noted that Tourism Malaysia greatly appreciated Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Limited’s confidence in selecting Malaysia to celebrate the achievements of its Star Club members. 

“The participation of approximately 6,200 delegates from across India provides an excellent opportunity to showcase Malaysia not only as a leisure destination, but also as a preferred destination for MICE and business events,” said Mr Mohd Amirul Rizal Abdul Rahim. 

Throughout the programme, delegates will experience Malaysia’s diverse tourism offerings, including city tours, resort activities, KL Tower, Genting SkyWorlds Theme Park, the Genting Cable Car, shopping, and other destination experiences. The event is also expected to generate positive economic benefits across the tourism ecosystem, including accommodation, transportation, food and beverage, attractions, shopping, and event-related services. 

The hosting of the Sun Pharma Star Club Awards 2026 supports Tourism Malaysia’s efforts to further reinforce business events as part of Malaysia’s tourism appeal and strengthen the MICE segment while leveraging the momentum of Visit Malaysia 2026–2027 to attract more high-value visitors and international business events from India. 

From January to June 2026, Malaysia recorded 738,709 visitor arrivals from India. This reflects the confidence and interest of Indian travellers, particularly business travellers, in Malaysia’s holistic travel experiences, including vibrant cultural heritage, immersive culinary offerings, warm hospitality, world-class business functions, and nature-based getaways.

-Tourism Malaysia.

Fly & Ride: Season 2 – Malaysia Coastal Expedition 2026

 

8 September 2026 – Flag-Off FLY & RIDE: Season 2 – Malaysia Coastal Expedition 2026 telah berlangsung di Trinidad Suites, Iskandar Puteri, Johor, dan disempurnakan oleh En. Jeffri bin Munir, Ketua Pegawai Operasi, Majestic Johor Tourism Sdn. Bhd.

Program ini melibatkan 40 peserta tempatan dan antarabangsa dengan kayuhan hari pertama sejauh ±110 km dari Johor Bahru menuju Batu Pahat sebelum meneruskan perjalanan ke Melaka, Negeri Sembilan, dan Kuala Lumpur.

Pemilihan Johor sebagai titik permulaan turut memberi peluang untuk mengetengahkan negeri ini sebagai destinasi pelancongan sukan dan berbasikal, di samping memperkenalkan keindahan, budaya, makanan serta hospitaliti Johor kepada peserta antarabangsa.

Penganjuran ini turut mendapat sokongan Tourism Malaysia dan dilaksanakan selari dengan kempen Visit Malaysia 2026, sekali gus memperkukuh promosi Johor dan Malaysia sebagai destinasi pelancongan sukan bertaraf antarabangsa.

-Tourism Johor.

Experience Malaysia’s Culture at Festival Budaya Malaysia 2026! @ Tourism Malaysia Booth

 

Get ready for 6 days of vibrant Malaysian culture, arts, heritage, food and exciting activities at Festival Budaya Malaysia 2026!

Date: 11–16 September 2026

Time: 9.00 AM – 12.00 AM

Venue: Taman Tasik Titiwangsa, Kuala Lumpur

Where: Tourism Malaysia Booth – Laman 1

FREE ENTRY!

Drop by the Tourism Malaysia booth and enjoy a variety of exciting activities, including:

> Discover amazing domestic tourism & theme park packages

> Meet Wira & Manja at our Meet & Greet session

> Join our social media activity

> Test your knowledge with our Kahoot! Tourism Quiz

> Have fun with traditional games

> Explore exciting craft demonstrations

> Experience our interactive AI activities

> Shop local favourites including Lexzo Coffee, Pomepop & Farm Fresh

And that’s not all! Enjoy traditional performances, heritage food, local crafts, traditional games, E-Sports and even the exciting experience of a hot air balloon ride!

Bring your family and friends and immerse yourself in the colours, flavours and stories that make Malaysia truly special.

See you at Festival Budaya Malaysia 2026!

-Tourism Malaysia.

Tourism Malaysia And ZIPAIR Strengthen Tourism Ties Ahead Of New Direct Service

 

PUTRAJAYA, 7 September 2026 | Mr. Mohd Amirul Rizal Abdul Rahim, Director General of Tourism Malaysia, received a courtesy call from Mr. Yasuhiro FUKUDA, President and CEO of ZIPAIR, together with the delegation today, in conjunction with ZIPAIR’s upcoming Narita–Kuala Lumpur (NRT–KUL) route, scheduled to commence operations on 20 October 2026.

The daily service will operate seven times weekly, with an estimated arrival time in Kuala Lumpur at 11.40 p.m. The route will be operated using Boeing 787-9 aircraft, with a seating capacity of approximately 290 passengers per flight.

The discussion also explored potential collaboration involving Pokémon-related activities in Malaysia, with a view to enhancing Malaysia’s appeal as a destination for Japanese visitors.

The new NRT–KUL service is expected to strengthen air connectivity and support efforts to increase arrivals from the Japanese market. From January to June 2026, Malaysia recorded 200,579 Japanese visitors, a 7.2% increase from 187,069 visitors during the same period in 2025.

-Tourism Malaysia.

Genting, Singapore's SUTL to develop Langkawi marina for superyachts

 

KUALA LUMPUR: Genting Malaysia Bhd and SUTL Enterprise Ltd will jointly develop ONE°15 Marina Langkawi, a new marina at Resorts World Langkawi with more than 90 berths and capacity to accommodate superyachts of up to 140 feet. 

The marina is expected to welcome its first yachts in the second half of 2027, according to a joint statement issued by Resorts World Langkawi and SUTL Enterprise last Friday. 

The collaboration brings together the companies' complementary expertise to develop the project as a waterfront destination for travellers, yacht owners and the wider yachting community. 

The development will expand Langkawi's cruising infrastructure, with facilities for yacht owners and charter operators, as well as access to yacht charters, island-hopping trips and sunset cruises. 

Visitors to the marina will also have access to the hospitality, accommodation, dining and entertainment facilities at Resorts World Langkawi. 

Situated along the Andaman Sea between Singapore and Phuket, Langkawi is a stopover for yachts travelling along established cruising routes in Southeast Asia.

The island's tourism infrastructure, international connectivity and duty-free status are expected to support further growth in marine tourism. 

Genting Malaysia president Lee Thiam Kit said Resorts World Langkawi has always been committed to creating unique experiences that celebrate the beauty and character of the island. 

"Through our collaboration with ONE°15 Marina, we look forward to enhancing Langkawi's appeal as a premier island tourism destination, offering visitors new ways to explore the island and its surrounding waters. 

"This partnership also supports the Langkawi Development Authority's vision of strengthening Langkawi's position as a world-class tourism destination, by enriching the island's tourism offerings and contributing to the sustainable growth of its maritime and leisure sectors," he added. 

SUTL Enterprise executive director and chief executive officer Arthur Tay said the development of ONE°15 Marina Langkawi represents an important milestone in the continued expansion of its marina network and reinforces its commitment to developing waterfront destinations across Asia. 

He added that Langkawi's strategic location along the Andaman Sea, between ONE°15 Marina Sentosa Cove in Singapore and ONE°15 Marina Panwa Phuket in Thailand, will strengthen the yachting route and enable boaters to enjoy seamless cruising holidays across the three destinations. 

"Our regional marina footprint is carefully curated, each defined by a distinct personality and experience, delivering consistently high marina standards, offering members and the wider yachting community a diverse yet cohesive range of exceptional lifestyle-led marina experiences across the region," he said. 

Listed on the Singapore Exchange main board, SUTL Enterprise develops and operates marinas, and provides marina consultancy, marina development and yacht chartering services. 

It owns the ONE°15 Marina Sentosa Cove in Singapore and operates ONE15 Luxury Yachting, which offers yacht chartering services at the club.

-nst online.

Malaysia–Japan Connectivity Enhanced With Malaysia Airlines’ Inaugural Fukuoka–Kuala Lumpur Direct Flight

 

KUALA LUMPUR — Tourism Malaysia warmly welcomed the inaugural arrival of Malaysia Airlines’ direct flight service from Fukuoka to Kuala Lumpur at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) Terminal 1 today, marking a significant milestone in strengthening air connectivity between Malaysia and Japan. The new service opens a gateway for travellers from Kyushu and the surrounding regions to experience Malaysia during Visit Malaysia 2026–2027 (VM2026–2027) and beyond. 

The inaugural Malaysia Airlines flight from Fukuoka International Airport was accorded a ceremonial welcome upon arrival at KLIA. The ceremony was attended by Madam Nuwal Fadhilah Ku Azmi, Senior Director, International Promotion Division (Asia & Africa), Tourism Malaysia; Mr George Low, Head of Eastern Region Commercial Sales, Malaysia Airlines Group (MAG); and representative from MAHB. 

The Fukuoka–Kuala Lumpur service operates five times weekly using Boeing 737-8 aircraft with 174 seats per flight. With a flight duration of approximately six hours and forty-five minutes, the direct service provides a convenient travel option for visitors from Fukuoka, the wider Kyushu region, and surrounding areas to Malaysia. 

The route also marks Malaysia Airlines’ third gateway in Japan, complementing its existing services from Tokyo and Osaka. The expanded network is expected to encourage increased visitor arrivals from Japan, strengthen Malaysia’s position as an accessible destination for the Japanese market, and support enhanced tourism, business, educational, and people-to-people exchanges between Malaysia and Japan. 

Mr Mohd Amirul Rizal Abdul Rahim, Director General of Tourism Malaysia, said, “The commencement of this direct service is a positive development for Malaysia’s tourism industry as it further strengthens our connectivity with Japan. Fukuoka and the wider Kyushu region represent an important market with significant potential for Malaysia, particularly in attracting visitors interested in leisure, culture and heritage, nature and ecotourism, gastronomy, and education tourism.” 

“Improved air connectivity is fundamental to facilitating visitor flows and creating greater opportunities for tourism cooperation. Tourism Malaysia will continue to work closely with our airline and industry partners to maximise the potential of this new route and promote Malaysia as a preferred destination among travellers from Fukuoka and surrounding prefectures,” added Mr Mohd Amirul Rizal Abdul Rahim. 

The new service also supports the objectives of VM2026–2027, which seeks to position Malaysia as a preferred and sustainable destination while showcasing the country’s diverse tourism assets and experiences to international travellers. Beyond leisure tourism, the enhanced connectivity is expected to facilitate greater movement of students, educators, education agents and academic groups between Japan and Malaysia, contributing to the development of education tourism and broader institutional linkages. 

The commencement of the Fukuoka–Kuala Lumpur service is also timely as Malaysia and Japan look towards 2027, which marks the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries. The milestone provides further opportunities to deepen the longstanding bilateral relationship and strengthen people-to-people ties through tourism, travel, education, and cultural exchanges. 

From January to June 2026, Malaysia recorded 200,579 visitors from Japan, a 7.2 per cent increase compared with 187,069 visitors during the same period in 2025. As of August 2026, air connectivity between Japan and Malaysia comprised 78 flight frequencies with 20,321 seats per week, further underscoring the importance of continued collaboration with airlines to expand capacity and stimulate travel demand. 

Tourism Malaysia remains committed to strengthening strategic partnerships with airlines and tourism industry stakeholders in Japan to expand connectivity, stimulate visitor demand, and support the sustainable growth of tourism between Malaysia and Japan.

-Tourism Malaysia.

Malaysia Airlines returns to Busan after 28 years, Firefly enters China

 

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia Airlines Bhd will resume flights to Busan on Dec 2 after a 28-year absence, while sister airline FlyFirefly Sdn Bhd (Firefly) will make its first foray into China with direct services to Kunming. 

Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG) president and group chief executive officer Captain Nasaruddin A Bakar said the new routes reflected the group's focus on markets with sustainable demand and opportunities to support tourism, trade and connectivity. 

"These new routes reflect our focus on markets where we see sustainable demand and opportunities to support tourism, trade and people-to-people connections," he said at the MATTA Fair today. 

Malaysia Airlines will operate four weekly Kuala Lumpur-Busan flights using Boeing B737-8 aircraft, marking its return to South Korea's second-largest city after last serving the route between 1996 and 1998. 

Upon resumption, Malaysia Airlines will be the only carrier offering non-stop flights between Kuala Lumpur and Busan. The service will complement its existing flights to Seoul. 

The Busan flights will operate on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays, with introductory return fares starting from RM2,139 for Economy Class and RM4,999 for Business Class.

Meanwhile, Firefly will launch direct flights to Kunming in southwest China using B737-800 aircraft, marking the airline's first route into the country. 

"This will open a new connection to an important regional centre, while complementing Malaysia Airlines' network in China, which now serves nine key hubs," Nasaruddin said. 

MAG has yet to announce the commencement date or ticket sales for the Kunming service. 

Malaysia Airlines will also increase its Kuala Lumpur-Fukuoka services from five times weekly to daily from Dec 1, following the route's resumption on Sept 2. 

Brisbane services will increase from six times weekly to daily from Oct 25, with the airline deploying its Airbus A330neo aircraft on the route. 

Flights to Surabaya will increase from 14 to 16 times weekly from Nov 1. 

Nasaruddin said Malaysia Airlines is also exploring another destination in South Asia, subject to regulatory approvals, with details to be announced in due course. 

Separately, MAG is building its own in-flight catering facility near Kuala Lumpur International Airport through MAG Culinary Solutions (MAGCS). 

Nasaruddin said groundworks began in July, with the facility targeted for completion in the fourth quarter of 2028 and operations expected to begin in the second quarter of 2029. 

The facility is expected to produce about 50,000 meals a day, almost double MAG's current handling capacity, and will cater to the group's airlines and third-party carriers. 

MAGCS was established as a MAG subsidiary in September 2025 following the insourcing of Malaysia Airlines' catering operations in 2023. 

MAG said customer satisfaction with in-flight dining has increased to 78 per cent from 72 per cent, while catering on-time performance now consistently stands at 99.9 per cent. 

The catering unit has secured a Ground Handling Licence and Technical Approval Certificate from the Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia, as well as an interim Manufacturing Licence from the Malaysian Investment Development Authority.

-nst online.