Malaysia strengthens museum sector ahead of Visit Malaysia Year 2026

 

The Penang State Museum and Art Gallery, pictured, is one of the key sites in Malaysia’s push to boost cultural tourism

Malaysia is intensifying efforts to position museums as central tourism assets in preparation for Visit Malaysia Year 2026 with new laws and infrastructure upgrades supporting the strategy.

The National Unity Ministry is in the final stages of drafting a law to regulate museum activities nationwide. Slated for tabling by November 2025, the legislation aims to provide a legal framework for museum governance, including the establishment of a Museum Council to advise and oversee the development and operations of institutions across the country.

National Unity minister Aaron Ago Dagang described the initiative as a move towards transforming museums into inclusive, accessible and sustainable spaces that promote creativity, critical thinking and shared cultural appreciation.

The law, being drafted in line with international standards, will introduce a rating system and bring private institutions under closer regulation to ensure alignment with national policy.

Penang and Johor are actively investing in museum upgrades as part of a broader heritage tourism strategy. The 100-year-old Penang State Museum and Art Gallery is currently closed for major restoration and is scheduled to reopen by the end of the year.

Several institutions under the Johor Heritage Foundation, including the 100-year-old Tokoh Johor Museum and the Sultan Abu Bakar Heritage Complex, are also undergoing significant upgrades. The Tokoh Johor Museum is currently closed for a 10 million ringgit (US$$2.3 million) conservation project.

The state has identified culture and heritage as key tourism segments alongside ecotourism, adventure, leisure and business events. Johor is positioning itself as a historical crossroads of culture and trade, with museum revitalisation efforts integrated into the state’s wider tourism growth strategies.

-TTG Asia.