Tourism Ministry: Physical visibility must be enhanced ahead of Visit Malaysia 2026

 

KUALA LUMPUR: The Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry has acknowledged the need to enhance physical visibility and on-ground promotion for Visit Malaysia Year 2026, set to begin in just two months. 

Its deputy minister Khairul Firdaus Akbar Khan said that while the government had already begun international and domestic promotions, the current campaign placed greater emphasis on digital platforms. 

"We have carried out various promotions, though this time our approach is slightly different as it focuses more on digital promotion. 

"When we talk about a digital approach, it may not be visible physically, but I must admit that in terms of physical visibility, we need to enhance and intensify our efforts. 

"Although time is short, we still have enough to take note of what has been raised," he said when winding up the debate on the Supply Bill 2026 at the committee stage today. 

Khairul Firdaus said this in response to Datuk Willie Mongin (GPS–Puncak Borneo), who questioned the apparent lack of promotional activity compared with past Visit Malaysia campaigns.

Willie noted that previous editions were marked by banners, gateways and nationwide excitement, while this year's efforts seemed "quiet, cold and dull". 

"As we approach Visit Malaysia Year 2026 in just two months, I have noticed that there has been no publicity, either internationally or domestically. 

"I still remember that in previous campaigns, there were grand gateways, large banners and pamphlets everywhere when we went to the airport. 

"It really felt like we were ushering in a new year, celebrating Visit Malaysia Year but this time, it feels rather quiet, very cold and dull. What has happened?" said Willie. 

Meanwhile, Khairul Firdaus (GRS–Batu Sapi) said several high-impact programmes were already being lined up in Sarawak for 2026, including the Rainforest Music Festival, Borneo Jazz Festival, Kapit Dayak Cultural Festival and the Borneo Craft Festival in line with Visit Malaysia Year 2026. 

He added that promotions for these events were ongoing through Malaysian tourism offices abroad and that special travel packages were being created to showcase Sarawak's rich cultural heritage. 

In a light-hearted remark at the end of his speech, Khairul Firdaus said that in conjunction with next year's Visit Malaysia Year, all lawmakers are "appointed as ambassadors" to promote Malaysia across the world.

-nst online.