Happy New Year 2026

 

-Pelancongan Kini.

Visit Malaysia Year, youth age revision and new policies kick off Jan 1

 

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia will see the implementation of several major developments that will have both direct and indirect effects on daily life and the country from Jan 1, 2026. 

Beyond shifts in geopolitics, the economy, society and international relations, several new policies and regulations are set to take effect next year. 

Among the key measures expected to be enforced is the Solid Waste and Public Cleansing Management (Amendment) Act 2025, which introduces stiffer penalties for minor littering offences in public areas. 

Any individual, including foreigners, found littering in public places will be fined RM2,000 and required to perform 12 hours of community service within six months. 

On the same date, the Online Safety Act, which strengthens the regulation of harmful online content, will also be enforced. 

Social media platforms and internet messaging services with more than eight million users in Malaysia will no longer be required to apply for operating licences but will remain fully subject to all provisions of Malaysian law.

The move is aimed at ensuring platform providers are held accountable for addressing illegal content, including online scams, the spread of false information, misuse of fake accounts and crimes involving children. 

The government will also implement a regulatory sandbox programme to assess child protection mechanisms and user safety in the digital space before rolling them out fully. 

A sandbox refers to a regulatory testing framework commonly used in technology and digital sectors, allowing stakeholders to trial new approaches, mechanisms or technologies in a controlled environment before full implementation. 

Among other measures, the Transport Ministry said traffic summonses, compound rates and payment methods will be standardised between the Road Transport Department and the police. 

Under the new structure, a 50 per cent reduction will be given for payments made within one to 15 days, 33 per cent for payments made between 16 and 30 days, while the maximum rate will apply for payments between 31 and 60 days. For offences unpaid after 61 days, court action or blacklisting measures will be imposed. 

Malaysia will also see the youth age limit revised to 30 years, down from the current upper limit of 40. 

The amendment not only lowers the youth age threshold but also sets the age limit for leaders or office bearers of youth organisations between 18 and 30 years, with a tenure cap of four years. 

Next month will also bring good news for civil servants, with the implementation of phase two of the salary adjustment under the public service remuneration system. 

This includes a three per cent pay rise for top management and increases of up to seven per cent for professional and support staff. 

In addition, the government will extend the mandatory implementation of the e-Invoicing system to businesses with annual sales of between RM1 million and RM5 million as part of tax digitalisation efforts. 

Small enterprises are currently exempted up to a turnover of RM500,000, with deferments and phased implementation adjustments introduced to ensure a smooth transition. 

Malaysia will also host Visit Malaysia Year 2026, which is seen as a major opportunity for the tourism sector amid recovering global demand and regional mobility, benefiting aviation, hospitality, retail, food and beverage, and related services. 

With a target of 26.1 million foreign tourist arrivals and an estimated RM97.6 billion in domestic tourism expenditure, a comprehensive framework has been drawn up to revitalise the sector as a key engine of economic growth. 

To achieve these targets, the government has allocated RM350 million to intensify tourism promotions and activities, positioning Malaysia to reclaim its status as a leading global tourism destination.

-nst online.

Pelancongan komuniti makin popular di Sabah, jana hasil penduduk tempatan

 

PETALING JAYA – Sabah kini semakin menonjol sebagai destinasi utama pelancongan komuniti, dengan pengiktirafan antarabangsa dan serantau yang mengangkat peranan penduduk tempatan sebagai penggerak utama pengalaman pelancongan di kawasan luar bandar. 

Antara yang sering menjadi rujukan adalah Koperasi Pelancongan Komuniti Batu Puteh Kinabatangan (KOPEL) yang diiktiraf sebagai Kampung Pelancongan Terbaik oleh United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), hasil pendekatan pelancongan berasaskan komuniti dan pemuliharaan.

Di samping itu, beberapa produk pelancongan komuniti di Sabah turut menerima pengiktirafan ASEAN Tourism Standard, mencerminkan usaha negeri ini dalam membangunkan pelancongan desa yang tersusun dan mampan.

Dalam menjayakan misi tersebut, Lembaga Pelancongan Sabah telah memainkan peranan penting dengan menyediakan latihan dan kemahiran kepada komuniti, agar mereka mampu mengurus destinasi sendiri tanpa bergantung sepenuhnya kepada pihak luar sejak tahun 2014. 

Komuniti di Kiulu dan Kadamaian antara yang awal menerima latihan kerana menjadi projek perintis pembangunan pelancongan luar bandar dan berasaskan komuniti.

Salah satu pengusaha pelancongan komuniti adalah di Kiulu, Lingga Eco Tourism di Kampung Lingga yang mana ia merupakan antara lima pengusaha di Sabah yang menerima pengiktirafan ASEAN Tourism Standard di peringkat kebangsaan tahun ini. 

Terletak di kaki bukit yang menghijau dengan Sungai Kiulu yang mengalir di sekitarnya, Lingga Eco Tourism menampilkan aktiviti seperti mendaki Dapako Hill dan pelbagai pengalaman  aktiviti luar yang menyeronokkan, menarik pelancong tempatan dan antarabangsa. 

Selain mendaki, pengunjung juga boleh mencuba aktiviti air seperti water rafting, sambil menikmati keindahan alam semula jadi.

Pengerusinya, Kait Lasangan berkata, setiap aktiviti eko-pelancongan diurus bersama komuniti, dengan penduduk tempatan terlibat sebagai pemandu pelancong, petugas penyelenggaraan, dan pengurus aktiviti. 

“Sama ada sebagai guide kerja gotong-royong, atau pembersihan kawasan, semuanya dibayar dan memberi pendapatan kepada penduduk setempat. 

“Penglibatan komuniti tempatan bukan sahaja memandu laluan, malah mereka juga berkongsi cerita kampung dan pengalaman harian, menjadikan pengalaman pengunjung lebih dekat dan terasa autentik,” katanya dalam kenyataan. 

Bagi mereka yang mencari sungai jernih dan kawasan perkhemahan semula jadi, Kadamaian menawarkan sungai yang mengalir dari kaki Gunung Kinabalu dan tapak perkhemahan yang dikelilingi alam semula jadi. 

Selain itu, bagi mereka yang ingin merasai kehidupan pertanian dan agro-tourism, kawasan pedalaman seperti Tambunan dan Tenom menawarkan peluang untuk mencuba aktiviti berkebun atau memetik hasil tempatan. 

Bagi pencinta alam semula jadi dan hidupan liar, Kinabatangan bersama KOPEL menawarkan peluang kepada pengunjung untuk melihat hidupan liar sambil menyokong komuniti tempatan.

Di daerah tanah tinggi Kundasang, udara segar dan sejuk serta panorama ladang sayur menanti pengunjung yang ingin menikmati pengalaman pergunungan, dengan Taman Kinabalu Park , sebuah  tapak Warisan Dunia yang menempatkan Gunung Kinabalu yang terletak berhampiran kawasan ini. 

Kehidupan pesisir dan budaya tempatan pula boleh dinikmati di kawasan Kota Marudu dan Kudat, yang menampilkan pantai yang menenangkan serta budaya Rungus yang unik. 

Dengan pelbagai pengalaman yang ditawarkan, pelancongan komuniti di Sabah bukan sahaja memberi keseronokan kepada pengunjung, malah menyokong pembangunan mampan dan kehidupan komuniti tempatan. 

Menjelang Tahun Melawat Malaysia tahun 2026, Sabah kini membuka pintu kepada pelancong domestik untuk mengalami sendiri pelancongan komuniti, alam semula jadi, dan budaya tempatan. 

Kerajaan negeri pula telah menetapkan Tahun Melawat Sabah 2027 sebagai agenda utama pelancongan, dengan penekanan terhadap pengalaman pelancongan yang berasaskan komuniti, alam semula jadi dan budaya tempatan.

-Kosmo! Online.

PM to launch 'I Lite U' as Visit Malaysia Year 2026 campaign kicks off

 

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia is all set to roll out the official launch of 'I Lite U' for Visit Malaysia Year 2026 at Bukit Bintang next Saturday. 

Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming said the national-level programme "I Lite U" (short for Innovative Lighting Infrastructure Towards Eco-Elegance & Urbanisation) is a Malaysian government project to boost tourism by enhancing Kuala Lumpur's night scene, especially for Visit Malaysia Year 2026. 

He said the event will be launched by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and graced by the presence of Oscar-winning actress Tan Sri Michelle Yeoh in front of Pavilion Kuala Lumpur at 7.30pm. 

"The mega launch, which is expected to draw thousands of local and international tourists, will also mark the start of the nationwide tourism campaign. 

"Bukit Bintang will be transformed into a vibrant showcase of Malaysia's diversity, cultural richness and charm, with the ceremony to be broadcast live on national television stations to amplify the reach of the Visit Malaysia Year 2026 campaign," he said in a statement today. 

Nga said the public can expect a grand parade featuring 20 contingents, alongside live performances by well-known local artistes at the launch.

"Several major roads in Bukit Bintang will be temporarily closed to facilitate the event as well," he said. 

Spearheaded by his ministry together with the Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry, the Federal Territories Department under the Prime Minister's Department, and Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL), Nga said the grand launch will showcase the unity and shared aspirations of Malaysia Madani at its best. 

"I welcome all Malaysians to participate in the celebration and to use public transportation to help ease traffic congestion when attending. 

"As we prepare to welcome the tourism year, I would also like to remind all Malaysians to uphold public cleanliness and the city's image, so that every visitor leaves with warm and lasting memories of feeling at home in Malaysia," he said. 

He also reiterated that the Community Service Order for littering offences will come into effect in just a day, on Jan 1, 2026, reminding the public not to litter. 

"Just a reminder, anyone caught littering in public may face penalties, including fines and mandatory street-cleaning duties. 

"So participants and spectators, please comply with the law and work together to build a clean, safe and tourist-friendly Malaysia," he said.

-nst online.

Cara Pembelian Tiket Masuk LENTERA 2025

 

Jom beli tiket Festival LENTERA secara atas talian ‼️

Pengunjung boleh terus membeli tiket melalui pautan https://lampu.putrajaya.my/tickets/lentera-putrajaya-2025 atau melalui dua (2) kaunter di tapak festival

Tarikh: 26 Disember 2025 – 4 Januari 2026

Masa: 5.00 petang – 12.00 malam

Lokasi: Anjung Floria, Presint 4, Putrajaya

Jadual acara & pembelian tiket:

https://www.lentera.putrajaya.my/

-Perbadanan Putrajaya.

Visit Malaysia 2026 Countdown Festival, Visit Malaysia 2026 Bazaar & VM 2026 Arts And Culture Showcase

 

Celebrate the New Year with us as we reignite the spirit of Visit Malaysia 2026 through a vibrant series of events showcasing Malaysia’s rich culture, arts and unity — happening from 26 December all the way to the first moments of 2026.

Mark your calendars!

New Year’s Eve Countdown

Date: 31 December 2025

Time: 7.00 PM – 12.30 AM

Venue: Pavilion Kuala Lumpur, Main Entrance

Visit Malaysia 2026 Bazaar

Date: 26 – 31 December 2025

Time: 10.00 AM – 10.00 PM

Venue: Piazza Pavilion Bukit Jalil

VM2026 Arts and Culture Showcase

Date: 27 – 31 December 2025

Time: 10.00 AM – 10.00 PM

Venue: Main Atrium, Fahrenheit 88

-Tourism Malaysia.

Country Heights to reposition iconic Palace of the Golden Horses

 

KUALA LUMPUR: Country Heights Holdings Bhd (CHHB) is gearing up to reposition the Palace of the Golden Horses, a landmark 400-room hotel in Mines Resort City, Seri Kembangan, Selangor, as part of its comprehensive long-term strategic plan. 

The luxury hotel remains a cornerstone asset for CHHB, strategically connected to the Mines International Exhibition & Convention Centre (MIECC) and the surrounding precinct. Overlooking the scenic Mines Lake, the property anchors the area as a premier leisure, events, and lifestyle hub. Its signature features, including a golden chariot entrance and meticulously designed interiors, have made it one of Malaysia's most iconic and visually distinctive hotels, attracting both local and international visitors. 

Originally developed in the 1990s on the site of the former Sungei Besi Mine, the Palace of the Golden Horses was part of a larger initiative that included the Mines Wellness Hotel, The Mines Shopping Mall, and MIECC, aimed at boosting tourism, recreation, and business events. In 2020, the hotel temporarily closed for a major refurbishment and reopened in 2021 with upgraded facilities. Notably, the hotel remained operational throughout the Covid-19 pandemic, continuing to serve medical tourists, while traditional Chinese medicine offerings saw particularly strong demand during that period. 

CHHB founder and advisor Tan Sri Lee Kim Yew said the repositioning of the Palace of the Golden Horses forms part of a broader strategic vision, which also encompasses the exploration of Web 3.0–enabled platforms, the enhancement of GHHS Healthcare's preventive and wellness services, and the introduction of curated, membership-based experiences at the hotel. 

"These initiatives are designed to enhance engagement, build sustainable communities, and unlock new value streams across healthcare, hospitality, and lifestyle segments, while remaining aligned with regulatory requirements and the company's core focus on asset integrity, governance, and long-term shareholder value," he said in a statement recently. 

On the financial front, CHHB is intensifying efforts to recover outstanding debts, with rental arrears from certain tenants totalling about RM15 million. Legal action is being pursued where necessary to safeguard revenue and optimise asset performance.

Lee emphasised that while the company continues to resolve legacy matters, it remains focused on executing its long-term strategic initiatives, reinforcing its commitment to sustainable growth, innovation, and value creation across its diverse portfolio.

-nst online.

Sambutan Ambang Tahun Baru 2026 @ Encore Melaka ( 28 ~ 31 Disember 2025 )

 

Sambutan Ambang Tahun Baru 2026

Kalau sambut ambang tahun baharu setakat tengok konsert, itu biasa.

Di Melaka, kita buat lain dari lain.

Aksi combat darat, laut & udara dari Rejimen Gerak Khas — live depan mata. Malam-malam  hiburan padu.

28 Disember 2025 : Real XPDC

29 Disember 2025 : Kristal dan Dinamik

30 Disember 2025 : Yabang & Bandi Amuk

31 Disember 2024  : Search, Lan Typewriter, Fauziah Gambus, Haziq Rosebi, …dan seorang Artis Rahsia!

Ringkasnya, ada aksi! ada muzik! ada surprise!

Tarikh: 27–31 Disember 2025

Lokasi: Encore Melaka

-Tourism Melaka.

Inaugural Chongqing-Kuala Lumpur Flight Boost Tourism And Trade

 

KUALA LUMPUR, 18 December 2025— Tourism Malaysia congratulates Sichuan Airlines on the successful launch of its inaugural direct Chongqing–Kuala Lumpur service. This marks Sichuan Airlines’ second city connection to Malaysia, building upon its established Chengdu route.

The inaugural flight, 3U 3773, touched down at KL International Airport (KLIA) Terminal 1 at approximately 11:45 p.m. establishing direct air connectivity between Chongqing and Kuala Lumpur.

Operating three times weekly, the service links Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport (CKG) with KLIA (KUL). Utilising an Airbus A321/A320 aircraft, the route offers a capacity of 160 passengers, significantly enhancing connectivity between Malaysia and Southern China while supporting growth in tourism, trade, and cultural exchange.

-Tourism Malaysia.

MASwings operations to transition to AirBorneo in early 2026

 

KUALA LUMPUR: MASwings operations will officially transition to AirBorneo early next year, its parent company Malaysia Aviation Group (MAG) said. 

Effective Jan 1, 2026, AirBorneo will take full legal and operational responsibility for all services formerly managed by MASwings, including flight operations, customer service, and passenger management. 

During the initial transition period, MASwings branding may remain visible as AirBorneo gradually introduces its new corporate identity. 

The transition follows the completion of the ownership transfer under the sale and purchase agreement signed with the Sarawak government on Feb 12, 2025. 

"MAG remains committed to supporting a smooth and seamless transition and acknowledges MASwings' contribution to strengthening regional and rural air connectivity over nearly two decades," it said in a statement. 

MASwings, established on Oct 1, 2007, was East Malaysia's first dedicated commuter airline, serving Sabah, Sarawak and Labuan.

Starting with four Fokker 50 and four Twin Otter aircraft across 22 destinations, the airline upgraded to ATR 72-500 aircraft from 2009 to improve efficiency, reliability and passenger experience. 

Over nearly two decades, MASwings has operated over 430,000 flights, carried more than 19 million passengers and supported over 300 jobs across the aviation value chain. 

MASwings has been instrumental in providing Rural Air Services (RAS), linking remote communities with urban centres, healthcare, education, government services, commerce and tourism, thereby contributing significantly to regional socio-economic development. 

"MAG remains committed to supporting a smooth and seamless transition and acknowledges MASwings' contribution to strengthening regional and rural air connectivity over nearly two decades," it added.

-nst online.

Payang Tengkujuh 2025 — Pesta Warisan & Rakyat Terengganu ( 25 ~ 29 Disember 2025 )

 

Payang Tengkujuh 2025 — Pesta Warisan & Rakyat Terengganu

Tradisi dihidupkan, pasar dimeriahkan, warisan diraikan.

Payang Tengkujuh kembali memeriahkan Kuala Terengganu dengan pelbagai aktiviti budaya, seni dan hiburan rakyat untuk seisi keluarga.

Tarikh: 25 – 29 Disember 2025

Masa: 8.00 pagi – 11.00 malam

Lokasi: Kuala Terengganu

Antara tarikan utama sepanjang 5 hari:

• Pertandingan Busana Batik Terengganu

• Pertandingan Mewarna

• Himpunan Tok Tok Deko Terengganu

• Persembahan Buskers setiap hari

• Seni & Kebudayaan Tradisional

• Silat, Taekwondo & permainan rakyat

• Zon Kanak-Kanak

• Zon Makanan Tradisional & Makanan Viral

Atur Cara Harian Ringkas:

Khamis (25 Dis)

Aktiviti Pagi: Pertandingan Busana Batik Terengganu

Jumaat (26 Dis)

Aktiviti Pagi: Pertandingan Mewarna

Aktiviti Petang: Buskers

Sabtu (27 Dis)

Aktiviti Luar: Himpunan Tok Tok Deko Terengganu

Aktiviti Dalam: Buskers

Ahad (28 Dis)

Aktiviti Dalam: Seni & Kebudayaan

Aktiviti Luar: Buskers

Isnin (29 Dis)

Aktiviti Dalam: Seni & Kebudayaan

Aktiviti Luar: Buskers

Jom datang beramai-ramai!

Sokong peniaga tempatan, hayati warisan Terengganu dan rasai kemeriahan pasar rakyat dalam suasana penuh budaya, seni dan kebersamaan.

Payang Tengkujuh 2025 — Warisan kita, kebanggaan kita.

-Discovery Terengganu.

Desa Kirana initiative targets 100,000 visitors to boost rural tourism

 

SABAK BERNAM: The Rural and Regional Development Ministry aims to attract 100,000 visitors to homestays through its newly launched Desa Kirana initiative, featuring 25 rural tourism destinations in conjunction with Visit Malaysia Year 2026. 

Its minister, Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, said the Desa Kirana programme is among the ministry's 'game changers', driving rural economic growth by emphasising five key attractions: heritage and culture, natural attractions, local gastronomy, traditional products, and authentic village experiences. 

"With the collaboration of the Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry, together with homestay and village associations, we expect tourists, especially from Japan and Korea, to be very interested in visiting rural areas. 

"When I summarised the Cabinet Tourism Committee meeting, my target is that by the end of 2026, Desa Kirana, comprising 25 village packages across the country, particularly in Peninsular Malaysia,will be established as key tourist destinations, without forgetting Sabah and Sarawak," he said after officiating the Desa Kirana Comprehensive Package announcement ceremony here today. 

He added that promotional efforts would continue until the end of 2027 to achieve the 100,000-visitor target. 

Zahid, who is also the Deputy Prime Minister, said the ministry balances high-end and low-end tourism to ensure all visitors can enjoy Malaysia's beauty.

"The tagline for Visit Malaysia Year remains 'Malaysia Truly Asia'. Malaysia reflects the very essence of Asia. 

"During my tenure as Deputy Tourism Minister, I was very familiar with tourism products. However, times and circumstances have changed. 

"High-end tourists no longer want to stay only in cities, but there are few options for them to explore rural areas. 

"Urban areas abroad may offer better facilities and more entertainment, so tourists want to venture into the countryside," he added. 

Commenting further, he said the Desa Kirana approach not only strengthens the competitiveness of rural tourism destinations but also creates new income opportunities for local communities through homestays, community-based tourism activities, and local product development. 

"The ministry targets a 20 per cent increase in local community income by 2026, taking into account the potential and uniqueness of each location," he said.

-nst online.

LENTERA - Jadual Acara Sepanjang Festival

 

Jadual Acara Sepanjang Festival LENTERA 2025: Sisiran Tasik Putrajaya 2025

Bertemakan “Warisan & Masa Hadapan”, Festival LENTERA 2025 bakal menyajikan pelbagai pengisian menarik antaranya persembahan warisan kebudayaan, persembahan dari komuniti Putrajaya, aktiviti-aktiviti menyeronokan dan sesuai untuk semua peringkat umur serta kategori masyarakat.

Pastinya pertunjukan utama LENTERA iaitu 26 laman pencahayaan yang menjanjikan sebuah pengalaman yang mengagumkan serta menakjubkan.

Rancang kunjungan anda ke LENTERA 2025 dan dapatkan maklumat lanjut serta pembelian tiket di pautan berikut:

https://www.lentera.putrajaya.my/

-Perbadanan Putrajaya.

Promosi Bilik SERI50 @ Hotel Seri Malaysia

 

Cuti sekolah dah tiba!!

Jom rancang cuti sekolah bersama yang tersayang di Hotel Seri Malaysia

Dengan PROMOSI BILIK SERI50, anda dapat rebat RM50 untuk bilik penginapan anda!!!

Bermula 19 Dis 2025 - 1 Jan 2026

1. Promosi “Promocode SERI50” (Website)

Tempah di www.serimalaysia.com.my

dan masukkan kod promo: SERI50

*SAH untuk 18 cawangan HSM selain HSM Kangar dan HSM Pulau Pinang.

2. Promosi SERI50 (Walk-In)

*SAH di HSM Kangar dan HSM Pulau Pinang Sahaja.

Hubungi 1-300-88-8088 untuk maklumat lanjut.

-Rangkaian Hotel Seri Malaysia.

Pusat Rekreasi Air Floria Dibuka Kini

 

Jangan lupa singgah weekend ni dekat sini, jumpa nantiiiiiii

Pusat Rekreasi Air Floria

Buka: Rabu- Ahad.

Tutup: Isnin- Selasa

8AM - 7PM (last ticket 5.30PM)

-Pusat Rekreasi Air Floria.

Xiamen Airlines Relaunches Direct Hangzhou-Kuala Lumpur Route

 

SEPANG, 13 December 2025 – Tourism Malaysia extends its sincere congratulations to Xiamen Airlines on the successful resumption of its direct Hangzhou–Kuala Lumpur service, which strongly reaffirms the airline’s commitment to enhancing air connectivity between Malaysia and China.

The resumed flight, MF8713, touched down at KL International Airport (KLIA) Terminal 1 at 2:45 p.m.. This arrival signifies the airline’s return to the Hangzhou–Kuala Lumpur route, following the suspension of operations in 2018.

Operated using a Boeing 737-800 aircraft with a 169-seat capacity, this reinstated service significantly strengthens access from Eastern China, particularly Hangzhou and its surrounding catchment areas. The route is strategically positioned to support robust tourism growth, facilitate essential business travel, and enhance cultural exchanges between both nations.

-Tourism Malaysia.

Tashkent-Langkawi: New Route Set To Deliver A Strategic Boost To Malaysian Tourism Ahead Of VM2026

 

LANGKAWI, 15 December 2025 – Tourism Malaysia, in collaboration with Batik Air and the Langkawi Development Authority (LADA), is proud to announce the launch of Batik Air’s new direct route connecting Tashkent with the enchanting island of Langkawi. This service marks a significant milestone in enhancing international connectivity, offering more convenient access to one of Malaysia’s most iconic destinations: a mesmerizing archipelago of 99 islands.

The inaugural flight, OD756, operated by Boeing 737 MAX, touched down at Langkawi International Airport at 9:55 AM carrying 152 passengers on board. This arrival signifies the commencement of a new weekly service that will connect Uzbekistan and Malaysia, providing travellers with seamless access to the region’s tropical charm and world-class hospitality.

Visitor arrivals from Uzbekistan to Malaysia have shown encouraging number, with 12,655 visitors recorded between January and August 2025. The introduction of this new direct route is expected to further boost arrivals from this emerging market, bolstering international connectivity while unlocking fresh opportunities for trade, investment, and cultural exchange. By bringing the two nations closer together, this enhanced air link paves the way for premium travel experiences and fosters a vibrant, long-term tourism partnership between Uzbekistan and Malaysia.

-Tourism Malaysia.

New Kunming-Johor Bahru Flight Strengthens Southern Connectivity

 

JOHOR BAHRU, 15 December 2025 — Tourism Malaysia warmly welcomed the arrival of the inaugural AirAsia flight AK1381 from Kunming, China, to Johor Bahru at approximately 6:45 AM today, marking a significant milestone in air connectivity between the two regions.

Using an Airbus A320 with a capacity of 180, the new scheduled service operates three times weekly on Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday. This direct service is the second route with direct

access to Johor after Guangzhou, providing travellers from Kunming and surrounding regions with convenient access to Johor’s key attractions, including Desaru Coast, LEGOLAND Malaysia and the vibrant city of Johor Bahru.

Passengers on the maiden flight were personally welcomed by Mr. Awang Shawal bin Awang Sulaiman, Regional Deputy Director of Tourism Malaysia (Southern Region), alongside representatives from AirAsia and officials from Senai Airport Terminal Services Sdn. Bhd.

As Kunming stands as a major economic and tourist hub, this direct connection will undoubtedly make Johor and Malaysia a prominent holiday destination. Aligned with the efforts to attract more visitors from the growing and affluent regions in southern and western China, the launch of this direct route by AirAsia is a strategic development of China-Malaysia air connectivity, stimulating visitor arrivals and strengthening the cultural and economic ties between the two nations.

-Tourism Malaysia.

Tourism Malaysia Elevates Digital Visibility With VM2026 Creators Onboard Programme

 

DESARU, 16 December 2025 – Tourism Malaysia successfully concludes the VM2026 Creators Onboard programme from 10–12 December 2025, bringing together social media influencers and digital creators who actively support Malaysia’s tourism promotion. This second edition highlights the vital role of digital storytelling in positioning Malaysia as a preferred travel destination ahead of Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026).

The 50 selected content creators participated in a curated 3-day, 2-night (3D2N) trip across Desaru, Johor, exploring a variety of eco-tourism offerings and nature-based attractions.

Participants visited Lebam River Cruise, Tanjung Balau Birdwatching, immersive stargazing, Adventure Waterpark Desaru Coast, Tanjung Balau Fishermen Museum, Ostrich Farm Desaru and experienced ATV rides for farm tours at Desaru Fruit Farm, and a Canon Digital Workshop at The Els Club Desaru Coast, where they enhanced their photography and videography skills using Canon cameras, all while capturing Johor’s rich biodiversity and natural beauty.

-Tourism Malaysia.

Edisi Ke-2 Risalah Sabah Agro Tourism Dilancarkan: Rasai Keistimewaan Durian Sabah

 

Kota Kinabalu, 13 Disember 2025 – Dalam usaha memeriahkan serta mempromosikan musim durian di Sabah, Tourism Malaysia Sabah bersama rakan strategiknya, Persatuan Pengusaha Durian dan Buah-buahan Tropika Sabah (MaSDa) telah melancarkan risalah Sabah Agro Tourism – A Unique Sabah’s Farmland Experience (Edisi ke-2).

Pelancaran yang diadakan di Dking, Segama Kota Kinabalu itu turut disempurnakan dengan kehadiran YB. Menteri Pertanian, Perikanan dan Makanan Sabah, YBhg. Datuk Jamawi Jaafar.

Edisi terbaharu ini meneruskan kejayaan edisi pertama yang telah dilancarkan pada bulan Ogos 2024 dengan menampilkan 24 pengusaha ladang buah-buahan tempatan serta pakej agropelancongan yang mempromosikan Tamparuli, Menggatal, Papar, Tenom, Tawau dan beberapa lokasi luar bandar lain yang terkenal dengan kepelbagaian pilihan durian dan buah-buahan tropika.

-Tourism Malaysia.

113 Acara Pelancongan Dan Kebudayaan Negeri Terengganu Tonjol Keunikan Negeri Sempena Tahun Melawat Malaysia 2026.

 

KUALA NERUS, 15 Disember – Pengerusi Jawatankuasa Pelancongan, Kebudayaan, Alam Sekitar dan Perubahan Iklim Negeri Terengganu, Yang Berhormat Datuk Razali bin Idris, hadir menyempurnakan Majlis Pelancaran Kalender Acara Tahunan (Calendar of Events – COE) 2026 di Hotel Raia & Convention Centre, di sini, hari ini.

Pengarah Jabatan Pelancongan Negeri Terengganu, Encik Hilman bin Hajijan selaku penganjur utama turut hadir bagi menyokong dan menjayakan majlis pelancaran tersebut.

Turut hadir ialah Timbalan Setiausaha Kerajaan (Pengurusan) Negeri Terengganu, YBhg. Dato’ Ab. Rasid bin Jusoh.

COE 2026 menghimpunkan sebanyak 113 aktiviti pelancongan dan kebudayaan yang dirangka khusus sempena sambutan Tahun Melawat Malaysia (TMM) 2026, sebagai usaha memperkukuh promosi dan penjenamaan pelancongan negeri di peringkat nasional dan antarabangsa.

Daripada jumlah tersebut, 13 acara utama dan 100 acara pelancongan serta kebudayaan akan dilaksanakan sepanjang tahun 2026, melibatkan penyertaan semua daerah di Negeri Terengganu.

Penyusunan COE 2026 turut memberi penekanan kepada pengukuhan sektor pelancongan sebagai pemangkin ekonomi setempat, di samping mengetengahkan keunikan produk, budaya dan warisan negeri kepada pengunjung domestik dan antarabangsa.

-Jabatan Pelancongan Negeri Terengganu.

Langkawi records 2.6 million air passengers in 11 months, higher than whole of 2024

 

LANGKAWI: Langkawi recorded more than 2.6 million air passengers in the first 11 months of the year, a 13.8 per cent increase from the same period last year. 

The number also exceeded the island's total air passenger volume for the whole of last year. 

Langkawi Development Authority (Lada) deputy chief executive officer Wan Kamarul Faisal Wan Kamardin said Langkawi International Airport (LTAL) handled 2,623,049 passengers from January to the end of November, up from 2,305,218 passengers in the same period last year. 

"The figure reflects strong and sustained demand for air travel to Langkawi. 

"LTAL is not just a gateway to the island, but a key driver of Langkawi's tourism economy," he said after welcoming the inaugural Batik Air flight from Tashkent, Uzbekistan, at LTAL today. 

Malaysian ambassador to Uzbekistan Ilham Tuah Illias was on board the flight.

Wan Kamarul said LTAL currently handled about 210 flight movements a week, comprising 188 domestic and 22 international flights, and was expected to receive 90,000 to 100,000 air passengers over the next two weeks. 

The Tashkent-Langkawi weekly service uses a Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft with a capacity of 162 seats. A total of 152 passengers arrived on the inaugural flight, which was welcomed with traditional performances. 

Ilham said the Tashkent-Langkawi route was expected to boost the Visit Malaysia 2026 campaign, citing Malaysia's diverse tourism offerings as a strong draw for Uzbek travellers.

-nst online.

Selangor’s tourism industry records impressive performance

 

Selangor is nearing a tourism milestone, recording 6.3 million tourist arrivals as of the third quarter of the year. 

The state is now just 1.7 million visitors short of achieving its year-end target of eight million. 

This strong performance was further reinforced by the Visit Selangor Year 2025 (VSY2025) campaign winning the Gold Award for Best Use of Content at the Malaysia Public Relations Awards (MPRA). 

Tourism Selangor chief executive officer Chua Yee Ling said the agency had consistently rolled out campaigns and events to support VSY2025 goals.

“Among the most prominent initiatives were the ‘Surprising Selangor’ and ‘Selangor Kan Ada!’ campaigns, which were amplified through collaborations with personalities such as Aizat Amdan, Bunga Isme, Jasper Supayah, Tony Eusoff, Nazrief Nazri, Ghaz Abu Bakar and many others. 

“The campaign’s success would not have been possible without strong media support, which helped highlight Selangor’s events, attractions and tourism programmes, driving public awareness and visitor interest throughout the year.” 

Selangor’s tourism calendar in 2025 featured a wide range of major events with 34 managed by Tourism Selangor.

These included the Selangor Mega Food Festival, Selangor Travel Fair and Selangor Coffee Festival. 

The state also supported 39 organisations through its VSY2025 grant in an effort to enhance local tourism events and programmes. 

Tourism Selangor, Chua said, carried out 12 international and eight domestic sales missions to strengthen partnerships with travel agents and encourage the development of more tourism packages. 

The agency’s digital performance also saw sizeable growth. 

Across social media platforms, Tourism Selangor recorded over 800,000 followers and 20 million engagements – proof of strong public interest in the state’s tourism initiatives. 

With continuous momentum and solid promotional efforts across mainstream and digital channels, Selangor remained one of Malaysia’s most active tourism destinations. 

The state is now preparing to carry this success into Visit Malaysia 2026. 

Selangor was expected to take a leading role, especially with the upcoming Sukma 2026, which would highlight the potential of sports tourism in Selangor.

-thestar online.