Maintain VM2026 promotions, say tourism players

 

KUANTAN: The expectations for Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026) are high at the Cuti-Cuti Malaysia Carnival at Kuantan City Mall. 

Travel agency Tapak X Holiday chief executive officer Shayuti Juhari, who is one of the exhibitors at the carnival, said the government should maintain its tourism promotion momentum until next year. 

“I have been actively promo­ting local tourism in several ­foreign countries throughout this year. The buzz generated so far is quite positive. 

“Such strong momentum must be maintained until next year to further leverage the Malaysian tourism industry in conjunction with VM2026,” he said. 

Another exhibitor, Lop Isma Abdul Ismail, said he hopes for more programmes like the ­Cuti-Cuti Malaysia Carnival to be held. 

“Events like this can help boost awareness among travellers on the tourism packages we provide as we get direct link to them,” said the tour manager of Haniff Travel Services Sdn Bhd. 

Exhibitor Muhammad Danial Khairil Annuar said Tourism Malaysia should come up with more tourism packages or attractions that are Muslim-friendly.

“This way, we can attract more Muslim tourists to Malaysia throughout VM2026,” said the exhibitor from Grand Darul­makmur Hotel which is based in Kuantan. 

Meanwhile, Zulazlan Hamidon, 46, who visited the carnival with his family of six, said he hopes for more attractions to be introduced to boost tourism next year. 

“My family and I often go ­travelling during the holidays. I hope there are more attractions and places for us to explore at a competitive price,” he said. 

The carnival, co-organised by Star Media Group Bhd and Tourism Malaysia, will run until tomorrow. 

It features 57 Malaysian exhibitors from several industries including food, handicrafts, travel agencies and hotels. 

Besides the exhibition, visitors are also entertained by various performances including traditional dances and musicians.

-thestar online.