Langkawi targets European and Asian markets to offset flight losses

 

Langkawi’s loss of two international flights in May, alongside the suspension of services from Bengaluru and Dubai, contributed to a year-on-year decline of around 200,000 tourist arrivals in 1H2026. 

Singapore is currently the only international gateway with direct scheduled flights to the island, though China Southern Airlines will commence three weekly services from Guangzhou in December. 

Waffa Wahida Zainol, manager of the Tourism Division at Langkawi Development Authority (LADA), said the island is working to rebuild and diversify its air connectivity. Plans include 20 direct charter flights from Warsaw between November and March 2027, alongside discussions with Batik Air to operate charters from Central Asia. 

To encourage more services, LADA offers marketing support of up to US$20,000 to operators committing to at least 10 flights per season. The authority is also partnering with Malaysia Airports and Tourism Malaysia to attract carriers from China and India, including ongoing talks with Air India Express for a Delhi route. 

Despite current airlift constraints, delegates at PATA Travel Mart 2026 noted that Langkawi maintains strong appeal through its natural attractions, UNESCO Geopark status, and quality accommodation. 

Tricia Loh, country manager for Malaysia and Singapore at Discova, highlighted strong interest from France – supported by direct Malaysia Airlines flights between Kuala Lumpur and Paris – as well as Central Europe and the Baltics. Discova is also exploring combined itineraries linking the island with Kuala Lumpur and Penang for southern Chinese travellers. 

Loh noted that European visitors typically stay four to five nights, attracted by year-round good weather and spacious accommodation. 

The island’s resort sector is also expanding with the upcoming opening of the 251-room Hilton Burau Bay Langkawi Resort. 

Meanwhile, the Malaysian Inbound Tourism Association is organising an October familiarisation trip for Chinese event planners, association leaders, and corporate buyers to highlight Langkawi’s business events potential.

-TTG Asia.

Hampir 1 juta ‘serbu’ Terengganu minggu lalu

 

Razali (kanan) merasmikan program Kesedaran Awam, Pendidikan dan Komunikasi Denai Sungai Kebangsaan di Dungun hari ini.

DUNGUN – Hampir sejuta pelancong membanjiri Terengganu sempena musim cuti perayaan Aidiladha pada minggu lalu. 

Pengerusi Jawatankuasa Pelancongan, Kebudayaan, Alam Sekitar dan Perubahan Iklim Terengganu, Datuk Razali Idris berkata, sebanyak 20 peratus ketibaan pengunjung sepanjang tempoh 22 Mei hingga 1 Jun itu merupakan pelancong asing.

“Berdasarkan unjuran semasa, seramai 943,161 orang memasuki Terengganu sepanjang minggu lalu. 

“Ia turut melibatkan 20 peratus pelancong asing yang kebanyakannya dari Singapura, China dan Thailand,” katanya ditemui selepas merasmikan Program Kesedaran Awam, Pendidikan dan Komunikasi Denai Sungai Kebangsaan peringkat Terengganu. 

Razali berkata, sebanyak 419,183 buah kenderaan direkodkan memasuki Terengganu menerusi Lebuh Raya Pantai Timur 2 (LPT2) sepanjang tempoh tersebut.

Beliau berkata, kemasukan pelancong memberangsangkan itu pasti memberi impak kepada ekonomi negeri khususnya peniaga kecil, pengusaha hotel dan inap desa. 

“Kita akan mengetahui nilai keseluruhan perbelanjaan dilakukan pelancong terbabit menerusi perbelanjaan Jabatan Perangkaan Malaysia (DOSM) pada masa terdekat,” katanya.

-Kosmo! Online.

Malaysia tourism off to strong start

 

Malaysia recorded a strong start to Visit Malaysia Year 2026, welcoming 10.64 million international visitors in the first quarter of the year, a 5.4 per cent increase compared with the same period in 2025. The achievement marks the second consecutive year the country has surpassed the 10 million-arrival mark in the first quarter.

Tourism, arts and culture minister Tiong King Sing said the growth reflected Malaysia’s continued appeal as a regional tourism hub despite ongoing global economic and geopolitical uncertainties.

“The performance of visitor arrivals for the first quarter of 2026 can still be considered good,” Tiong said, noting that rising airfares and disruptions linked to the Middle East conflict had affected several tourism markets.

According to ministry statistics, February recorded a historic milestone with 3.47 million international arrivals, the highest monthly figure recorded by Malaysia. The surge was largely driven by increased travel during the Chinese New Year festive season.

Singapore remained Malaysia’s largest source market with more than 5.14 million arrivals, while China emerged as a key growth driver with 1.41 million visitors, up 25.2 per cent year-on-year. Thailand, Brunei, Australia and the United Kingdom also posted growth, with Australia recording an increase of 11.4 per cent.

Tiong noted that South-east Asian and East Asian markets continued to underpin Malaysia’s tourism recovery, while Europe showed encouraging momentum. “The number of European visitors to Malaysia in the first quarter for the first time exceeded 500,000,” he shared.

To support further growth, Malaysia expanded its international air connectivity with 20 new scheduled routes and six charter services launched during the quarter, adding 95 weekly international flights.

The minister also stressed the importance of strengthening partnerships with global tourism and aviation players ahead of Visit Malaysia Year 2026.

Earlier this year, Tiong led Malaysia’s delegation to the ASEAN Tourism Forum in Cebu and ITB Berlin 2026, where discussions were held with major industry players including Lufthansa Group, Expedia, Airbnb and Marriott International.

At ITB Berlin, Tiong met representatives from Lufthansa City Center International’s travel sales network to explore cooperation to advance European and global markets. The organisation has around 320 member travel agencies worldwide.

Malaysia’s tourism campaign has also been extended until December 31, 2027, with the government focusing on high-growth markets, enhanced connectivity and longer stays to boost visitor spending and strengthen the sector’s contribution to the national economy.

-TTG Asia.

Malaysia hits 10.64 million international arrivals in Q1 2026

 

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia recorded a new tourism milestone in the first quarter of this year as international arrivals rose 5.4 per cent to 10.64 million visitors, Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing said. 

Tiong said the latest figures marked the second consecutive year the country exceeded 10 million international arrivals in the first quarter, surpassing even pre-pandemic levels. 

He said this year's growth was driven largely by the Chinese New Year holidays, which helped Malaysia set a new monthly record in February. 

"For the first time, visitor arrivals in February surpassed three million, reaching 3,472,557 arrivals, the highest ever recorded in a single month," he said in a statement today. 

He said the latest figure was also higher than the pre-pandemic level in 2019, when Malaysia recorded 9.01 million visitors in the first quarter. 

Tiong said the achievement was recorded despite geopolitical tensions in the Middle East affecting fuel supply, forcing flight route changes and pushing up airline operating costs, with the impact becoming more apparent towards the end of March.

"Because of this, the first-quarter visitor arrival performance can still be considered good. By region, only visitors from three regions recorded a decline, while six others posted growth compared with the same period last year," he said. 

He said arrivals from the Middle East were the worst affected, falling 27.2 per cent, while South Asia and North Africa also declined by 6.7 per cent and 8.4 per cent, respectively. 

"Visitors from East Asia and asean each rose by more than 200,000, while arrivals from the Americas, Oceania and Europe also increased by more than 10,000. 

"Central Asia recorded the highest growth rate, rising 20 per cent compared with last year," he said. 

Tiong said China was the main growth driver, with more than 280,000 additional visitors and a 25.2 per cent increase, while Australia recorded double-digit growth of 11.4 per cent. 

Tiong said the expansion of Malaysia's international air connectivity, especially through direct routes, remained a key driver of tourism growth and contributed to the 5.4 per cent increase in first-quarter arrivals. 

He said 20 new scheduled routes began operating in the first three months of the year, with 12 airlines adding 95 international flights to Malaysia each week, while five other airlines operated six charter routes linking China and Hong Kong with Malaysia. 

He said increased China-Malaysia flight capacity during the Chinese New Year travel period helped arrivals from China surpass 500,000, reaching 604,675 and contributing to February's record monthly arrivals.

-nst online.

Malaysia shifts tourism focus to stable markets amid global crunch

 

KUALA LUMPUR: The government is looking to strengthen the tourism sector by refocusing on more stable markets, including Asean, Australia, India and East Asia – covering China, Japan and South Korea – to sustain visitor arrivals and national revenue following a global supply crisis that has affected air travel from the Middle East. 

Economy Minister Akmal Nasrullah Mohd Nasir said the move was agreed by the National Economic Action Council to ensure the sector's resilience amid an uncertain global environment.

 "In a prolonged global crisis, tourism is not merely about increasing visitor numbers, but is crucial in generating foreign exchange earnings and helping to offset external pressures we are currently facing," he said during a briefing on the global supply crisis, broadcast live on local television stations today. 

He said that within a month of the crisis, a total of 288 flights from the Middle East to Malaysia were cancelled, involving 88,438 seats, although the segment accounted for less than one per cent of total tourist arrivals. 

According to Tourism Malaysia, arrivals from China reached 4.7 million in 2025, a year-on-year increase of 25.1 per cent. As of February 2026, there were about 871 weekly flights across 30 cities, with a capacity of 170,862 seats. 

The minister said strategies to boost visitor numbers must focus on Malaysia's strengths as a stable and accessible destination, supported by a well-developed transport system and sufficient domestic energy supply to sustain tourism experiences.

"More importantly, the benefits of tourism do not stop at hotels and airlines. When tourists arrive and spend, the impact is also felt by homestay operators, tour guides, local transport providers, restaurants, hawkers, retailers, handicraft entrepreneurs and various other small businesses. 

"This economic spillover is vital to ensure small industries continue to thrive and local economies remain active. That is why strengthening the tourism sector at this time is not merely about promotion, but about ensuring more local businesses can survive and more people continue to have a source of income," he said. 

He added that the Visit Malaysia 2026 campaign had been extended to 2027 to allow more time for the international tourism market to recover, with a target of 47 million foreign visitors and RM329 billion in tourism revenue.

-nst online.

Tahun Melawat Malaysia 2026 dilanjut hingga akhir 2027

 

PUTRAJAYA: Pelaksanaan Tahun Melawat Malaysia 2026 (VM2026) akan dilanjutkan hingga penghujung 2027. 

Timbalan Perdana Menteri, Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, berkata ia diputuskan dalam Mesyuarat Jawatankuasa Kebangsaan Induk VM2026 kali kedua hari ini. 

Beliau berkata, keputusan perlanjutan itu akan dibawa ke Mesyuarat Jemaah Menteri untuk pertimbangan serta persetujuan selanjutnya. 

"Keputusan ini diambil bagi membolehkan Malaysia mengambil pendekatan proaktif dalam memperkukuh strategi promosi, menonjolkan negara sebagai destinasi yang selamat, stabil dan berdaya saing serta merebut peluang daripada perubahan corak perjalanan pelancong," katanya.  

Beliau berkata demikian dalam satu kenyataan media hari ini.

Ahmad Zahid yang juga Pengerusi Jawatankuasa Kebangsaan Induk VM2026, berkata langkah berkenaan juga diambil dengan mengambil kira perkembangan semasa, termasuk konflik yang tercetus di Asia Barat pada 28 Februari lalu, yang memberi kesan ketara terhadap kestabilan serantau. 

Jawatankuasa itu terdiri daripada enam jawatankuasa kerja diterajui Kementerian Pelancongan, Seni dan Budaya, Kementerian Komunikasi, Kementerian Perumahan dan Kerajaan Tempatan serta Kementerian Pengangkutan, dengan keanggotaan daripada pelbagai agensi kerajaan berkaitan. 

Beliau berkata, konflik itu turut menjejaskan sektor pelancongan global. 

Katanya, unjuran yang dibuat juga menunjukkan ketibaan pelancong dari Asia Barat boleh merosot antara 11 peratus hingga 27 peratus, atau kehilangan sehingga 38 juta pelawat, membabitkan kerugian mencecah AS$56 bilion. 

"Ini memberi kesan kepada negara-negara tumpuan pelancongan di Asia dan ASEAN. 

"Konflik ini juga mengganggu laluan penerbangan antarabangsa, meningkatkan kos perjalanan dengan kenaikan harga minyak dan kos pengangkutan. 

"Keadaan ini juga menurunkan keyakinan pelancong, yang dijangka memberi implikasi kepada aliran pelancongan dunia dalam jangka masa terdekat," katanya. 

Justeru, Ahmad Zahid berkata, mesyuarat berkenaan yang diadakan hari ini di Putrajaya, membincangkan serta meneliti perkara-perkara berkenaan. 

Pada masa sama, beliau berkata, mesyuarat berkenaan turut dilaksanakan bagi menyelaras program dan aktiviti yang sudah dilaksanakan serta merancang langkah-langkah bagi merancakkan kempen VM2026. 

"Usaha ini bertujuan memperkukuh kerjasama strategik, menarik lebih ramai pelawat, meningkatkan tempoh penginapan serta perbelanjaan pelancong, dan menonjolkan Malaysia sebagai destinasi selamat, stabil dan berdaya saing," katanya.

-berita harian online.

Malaysia adds three international airlines linking Asia, Africa routes

 

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia's aviation network has added three new international airlines, with AeroDili and Air Algerie commencing operations at Kuala Lumpur International Airport, and Qingdao Airlines launching services to Penang International Airport. 

Malaysia Airports Holdings Bhd said Timor-Leste's AeroDili began operations on March 28, followed by Algeria's Air Algerie on March 30, while China's Qingdao Airlines started flights to Penang on March 31. 

Qingdao Airlines operates thrice-weekly flights from Qingdao, becoming the ninth Chinese carrier serving Penang International Airport, the airport operator said in a statement. 

AeroDili operates twice-weekly direct flights between Kuala Lumpur and Timor-Leste, while Air Algerie will operate three times weekly. Its inaugural flight was fully booked, indicating strong demand. 

The Air Algerie service opens a new North African corridor with no direct competition, complementing existing African connectivity via Ethiopian Airlines and Air Mauritius. 

Malaysia Airports managing director Datuk Mohd Izani Ghani said the additions form part of the group's efforts to expand its airline network.

"They enhance connectivity and service quality while creating long-term value for passengers, airline partners and the wider economy. 

"Our focus is on building a resilient, demand-driven network that supports tourism, trade and regional mobility, and we are actively pursuing new airline partnerships and routes to expand Malaysia's global reach," he said.

-nst online.

Hari Raya travel drives 33 per cent rise in Singapore outbound trips: Trip.com

 

Shanghai, Bangkok and Kuala Lumpur, pictured, are among the top destinations for Singapore travellers during the Hari Raya travel period

During the Hari Raya Puasa holiday period, with bookings rising by 33 per cent year-on-year, according to Trip.com data. 

The figures cover travel between March 20 and 29, 2026, compared with March 28 to April 6, 2025. Short- and medium-haul destinations in Asia-Pacific remained the preferred choice, with Shanghai, Bangkok and Kuala Lumpur ranking as the most popular cities.

Shanghai emerged as the top destination this year, while Manila moved up to fourth place from seventh in 2025. Other destinations in the top 10 include Tokyo, Taipei, Seoul, Bali, Hong Kong and Penang. 

Medium-haul flights accounted for 70 per cent of bookings, followed by shorthaul flights at 24 per cent and longhaul travel at six per cent. 

Younger travellers were a key driver of demand, with Gen Z and millennials accounting for a large share of outbound bookings. 

Inbound travel to Singapore also increased by 12 per cent during the same period. China, Malaysia and Thailand remained the largest source markets, while Germany, the US and Turkey recorded the fastest growth. 

Visitors were drawn to attractions such as Universal Studios Singapore, Jewel Changi Airport, Singapore Zoo and Night Safari, reflecting demand for a mix of entertainment and nature-based experiences. 

Edmund Ong, general manager, Trip.com Singapore noted: “As Singaporeans take time to celebrate Hari Raya Puasa, many are also seizing the opportunity to travel abroad. The desire to venture abroad during the key festive seasons also reflects Singaporeans’ desire to create memorable shared moments through travel.”

-TTG Asia.

75,000 flood Langkawi for Aidilfitri holidays

 

LANGKAWI: Some 75,000 visitors have flooded the island over the last five days, driven by a surge of holidaymakers and residents returning for Aidilfitri. 

Of the total arrivals since Monday, 18,000 arrived via passenger ferries from Kuala Perlis and Kuala Kedah, while approximately 7,000 used roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) services. 

Air travel remained a primary choice, with an estimated 50,000 passengers recorded arriving via domestic and international flights during the same period. 

Ferry Line Ventures Sdn Bhd (Ferry Line) operations manager Lieutenant Commander (Rtd) Norhafiz Abdul Wahid said 11,230 passengers entered Langkawi through the Kuala Perlis route. 

"For the Kuala Kedah-Langkawi route, 6,960 local and foreign passengers were recorded across seven trips, including two additional services. 

"We believe this increase is driven by Langkawi natives returning for the festivities and tourists taking the opportunity to holiday on the island", he said.

Langkawi Port Sdn Bhd general manager Muhd Nasir Abd Aziz said the Tanjung Lembung Pier (DTL) recorded about 7,000 passenger arrivals in the same timeframe. 

He said ferry operators increased trip frequency to eight times daily, up from the usual four, to meet the festive demand. 

"This ensures the smooth movement of passengers and vehicles between Langkawi and Kuala Perlis", he said in a statement. 

Checks on flight schedules showed Langkawi International Airport (LTAL) receiving an average of 20 incoming flights daily from Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Johor Baru, Singapore, and Bengaluru, India. 

An airport staff member, who wished to be known only as Man, said employees were briefed to handle an average of 5,000 passengers per day throughout the peak period.

-nst online.

New Chongqing-Kota Kinabalu Direct Flight Launched To Boost Visit Malaysia 2026 Arrivals From China

 

KOTA KINABALU, SABAH – Tourism Malaysia today welcomed the arrival of inaugural direct service by Chongqing Airlines connecting Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport and Kota Kinabalu International Airport, marking an important milestone in strengthening air connectivity between China and Sabah. 

The new flight OQ2193 links Chongqing with Kota Kinabalu using the modern Airbus A320neo, carrying 195 passengers per trip. The service operates three times weekly on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays, departing China at 19:00 with an estimated time of arrival in Malaysia at 23:15. This further enhances accessibility from China as one of Malaysia’s most important tourism source markets, while supporting sustained growth in visitor arrivals. 

The launch of this new airline service reflects the growing interest among Chinese carriers in exploring additional cities in China across Sabah, driven by rising demand for the state’s diverse offerings. The route further strengthens connectivity for travellers from Western China, providing greater access to Sabah’s renowned landscapes, vibrant culture, and signature Malaysian hospitality. In total, 10 cities in China are connected to Sabah through major entry points such as Kota Kinabalu International Airport and Tawau Airport that operates 112 flights weekly. 

“This route launch reflects the soaring demand for Sabah’s unique offerings. As a key pillar of our China strategy, this partnership with Chongqing airlines strengthens Malaysia’s position as a premier, accessible gateway for nature, culture, and world-class hospitality to drive inbound travel from china as part of the Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026) campaign,” said Mr. Mohd Amirul Rizal Abdul Rahim, Director General of Tourism Malaysia. 

The inaugural arrival was received by delegates from Tourism Malaysia, led by Ms. Haryanty Abu Bakar, Director of Tourism Malaysia Sabah alongside representatives from Sabah Tourism Board, Chongqing Airlines and Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad, in a welcoming ceremony commemorating the milestone. 

The new Chongqing–Kota Kinabalu route reflects continued collaboration between tourism authorities, airport operators and airline partners to strengthen Malaysia’s air connectivity and support sustainable tourism growth. The direct connectivity offers seamless travel options for leisure travellers, business visitors and group tours, while enhancing Kota Kinabalu’s position as a strategic gateway to East Malaysia. 

China remains a fundamental region of Malaysia’s tourism expansion. In 2025, Malaysia recorded 4.7 million visitor arrivals from China, representing a 25.1 per cent year-on-year increase and underscoring the market’s continued importance and strong travel demand. 

Aligned with the strategic objectives of Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026), the introduction of this route enhances international accessibility and further strengthens Kota Kinabalu as a key regional gateway alongside Kuala Lumpur. This is expected to encourage repeat visits, increase tourism spending and reinforce Malaysia’s position as a preferred destination for leisure, culture, gastronomy and shopping. 

Tourism Malaysia extends its appreciation to Chongqing Airlines and Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad for their continued collaboration and support, and looks forward to working closely on joint promotional initiatives to showcase Malaysia’s diverse tourism offerings to travellers from Chongqing and the wider China market in support of Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026).

-Tourism Malaysia.

Norwegian Sun docks in KK with over 1,800 passengers

 

KOTA KINABALU: The Norwegian Sun cruise ship arrived here at around 9am on Monday, bringing a total of 1,818 passengers and 889 crew members to Sabah’s shores.

According to a Facebook post by Sabah, Malaysian Borneo, the Sabah Tourism Board (STB) extended a warm welcome to the visitors and thanked them for choosing the State capital as part of their journey.

The visitors are expected to explore the city and nearby attractions, experiencing Sabahan hospitality, local culture and natural beauty during their stopover.

From Mount Kinabalu to the rich marine life along its coasts, Sabah continues to position itself as a top cruise destination under the #VisitMalaysia2026 campaign.

-Daily Express.

Tourist arrivals rise 11.2pct to 42.19 million, exceed global growth rate

 

PUTRAJAYA: Malaysia recorded 42.19 million tourist arrivals last year, an 11.2 per cent increase that outpaced global and regional growth rates. 

Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil said the figures, presented by the Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry at the cabinet meeting today, were up from 37.96 million visitors in 2024. 

"The 11.2 per cent growth rate exceeds the global average increase of four per cent and the six per cent growth recorded for visitor arrivals in the Asia-Pacific region. 

"This reflects Malaysia's continued appeal and the confidence of international visitors in the country as a leading destination," he said at a press conference here today. 

The government has set a target of attracting 47 million international tourists and generating RM329 billion in revenue in conjunction with Visit Malaysia Year 2026. 

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced that more than RM700 million has been allocated for promotional activities and the organisation of events, along with an additional RM50 million to support arts and heritage practitioners this year.

Meanwhile, Fahmi said Phase One of the Media Innovation Fund, held from Jan 1 to 14, received 50 applications from media organisations. 

"Of that, 34 media organisations were approved, involving total funding of RM10.3 million. 

"This reflects the industry's readiness to embrace progressive transformation, particularly in content technology and talent development," he said. 

He added that Phase Two, which ran from Feb 9 to 22, saw participation from 19 media organisations, while Phase Three will open this Sunday until March 14. 

"This shows industry players remain committed to innovating and adapting their business models to current needs and realities," he said.

-nst online.

Cruise ships set to sail thousands of visitors to Sabah

 

KOTA KINABALU: Sabah is set to welcome at least 30,000 tourists from cruise ship arrivals this year. 

Assistant Minister to the Chief Minister Datuk Joniston Bangkuai said the projection followed confirmation from Suria Capital Holdings Bhd of 25 cruise ship calls scheduled for 2026.

Joniston, who also chairs the Sabah Tourism Board (STB), said the state welcomed initiatives that attract visitors and boost tourism-related spending, particularly for local communities and the wider economy. 

"Collaboration between the STB and cruise industry players can be further strengthened to better understand how we can jointly promote cruise tourism and Sabah in general, especially for short-stay and day visitors, by leveraging cruise ship arrivals," he said in a statement. 

In 2025, Sabah recorded 23 cruise ship calls carrying 24,634 passengers, with 19 ships docking at Kota Kinabalu Port and four at Sandakan Port — nearly double the 14 ships and 16,727 passengers in 2024. 

Before the Covid-19 pandemic, Sabah saw 30 cruise ship calls in 2019, bringing in 36,183 passengers.

This year, Sabah is targeting four million visitors under Visit Malaysia Year 2026. Last year, the state exceeded its target of 3.5 million, recording approximately 3.6 million arrivals.

-nst online.

Kuala Lumpur destinasi popular pelancong dunia setanding Tokyo, Bangkok

 

PETALING JAYA – Kuala Lumpur berada di tangga kelapan bandar raya paling popular dikunjungi pelancong dunia pada suku pertama tahun ini susulan peningkatan tempahan perjalanan antarabangsa sempena Tahun Melawat Malaysia 2026 (VM2026). 

Pengurus Besar Trip.com Malaysia, Stephane Thong berkata, berdasarkan data tempahan dari 1 Januari hingga 31 Mac 2026, Malaysia tersenarai dalam lima destinasi luar negara utama bagi pelancong dari Asia Tenggara dan China, selain berada dalam kelompok 10 teratas pelancong dari Hong Kong, Taiwan dan Korea Selatan.

Menurut beliau, Kuala Lumpur kini sebaris dengan bandar raya utama dunia seperti Tokyo, Seoul dan Bangkok sebagai destinasi pilihan global.

“Momentum ini didorong kepelbagaian tarikan pelancongan merangkumi bandar, alam semula jadi serta destinasi mesra keluarga berasaskan warisan dan budaya,” katanya dalam kenyataan hari ini. 

Sementara itu, Menteri Pelancongan, Seni dan Budaya, Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing berkata, pemulihan sektor pelancongan negara menunjukkan perkembangan memberangsangkan dengan pertumbuhan ketibaan pelancong dari pasaran utama dunia.

“Pasaran Timur Tengah, China dan ASEAN menunjukkan peningkatan ketara. VM2026 menyasarkan 47 juta ketibaan pelancong dengan penerimaan berbilion ringgit,” katanya. 

Sementara itu, data Trip.com menunjukkan Kuala Lumpur, Kota Kinabalu, Pulau Pinang, Kuching dan Johor Bahru menjadi destinasi domestik paling popular, manakala China, Singapura dan Jepun kekal sebagai pilihan utama rakyat Malaysia ke luar negara. 

Golongan milenial menyumbang 51 peratus tempahan, diikuti generasi X dan Z, manakala taman tema seperti Genting SkyWorlds, Sunway Lagoon dan Skytropolis kekal menjadi tarikan utama keluarga.

–Kosmo! Online.

Malaysia kicks off Visit Malaysia 2026 with New Year’s Eve festival

 

Malaysia formally ushered in its Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026) tourism campaign with a New Year’s Eve Countdown Festival at Pavilion Kuala Lumpur, bringing together thousands of locals and international visitors. The event marked an energetic start to a year the government hopes will set new records for travel to the country. 

The highlight of the evening was the countdown led by prime minister Anwar Ibrahim, who joined the crowd to welcome the New Year. The multimedia-rich celebration included fireworks, drone shows, traditional and contemporary performances, and appearances by popular local artistes.

Tiong King Sing, minister of tourism, arts and culture Malaysia, said: “This celebration was a symbolic event to ignite the momentum for VM2026 while welcoming the world to our shores. Malaysia is now fully ready to showcase its unique culture, creativity, and the warm hospitality of its people. It marks a strong head start towards our aspiration of 43 million international visitor arrivals, further solidifying our position on the global tourism map.” 

The VM2026 calendar features more than 300 activities throughout the year, including the Petronas Grand Prix of Malaysia, Rainforest World Music Festival, Malaysia’s Agriculture, Horticulture and Agrotourism Exhibition (MAHA), Malaysian International Furniture Fair, and cultural celebrations such as Chinese New Year, Hari Raya, Deepavali and Gawai. 

Airports across the country also hosted special welcome events for arriving guests as part of the campaign rollout. 

VM2026 is guided by five strategic pillars: sustainability, cultural heritage, nature-based adventure, digital innovation and global connectivity.

-TTG Asia.

Sambutan Ambang Tahun Baharu 2026 & Countdown Visit Malaysia 2026 Berlansung Meriah

 

Kempen Tahun Melawat Malaysia 2026 (VM2026) secara rasmi membuka tirainya menerusi penganjuran Visit Malaysia 2026 Countdown Festival, iaitu sambutan ambang tahun baharu berskala besar yang berlangsung meriah malam tadi di Pavilion Kuala Lumpur.

Festival yang disertai Perdana Menteri Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim ini, menandakan permulaan kepada usaha memacu momentum awal sektor pelancongan negara ke arah sasaran 43 juta ketibaan pelawat antarabangsa, selari dengan aspirasi menjadikan Malaysia sebagai destinasi pilihan utama pelancong dunia.

-Tourism Malaysia.

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.

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.

Malaysia terima 28.2 juta pelawat asing dari Januari hingga Ogos

 

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia kini berada pada kemuncak momentum pelancongan apabila menerima 28.2 juta pelawat asing bagi tempoh Januari hingga Ogos 2025, peningkatan ketara 14.5 peratus berbanding tahun sebelumnya, sekali gus petanda jelas limpahan peluang ekonomi kepada pemain industri menjelang Tahun Melawat Malaysia 2026 (TMM2026). 

Pengarah Kanan Bahagian Perancangan Strategik, Lembaga Promosi Pelancongan Malaysia (Tourism Malaysia), Salinda Sany, berkata peningkatan pelawat tahun ini melepasi angka prapandemik, dengan pertumbuhan 16.42 peratus berbanding 2019, sekali gus menegaskan bahawa Malaysia kembali sebagai destinasi pilihan utama rantau ini. 

"Sektor pelancongan kini menjadi penyumbang utama ekonomi negara. Pelancongan menyumbang 15.1 peratus kepada Keluaran Dalam Negara Kasar (KDNK), bersamaan hampir RM291 bilion, menjadikan RM1 daripada setiap RM6 dalam ekonomi negara datang daripada aktiviti berkaitan pelancongan. 

"Daripada jumlah keseluruhan, pelawat Singapura kekal penyumbang terbesar dengan 13.9 juta ketibaan, iaitu hampir lima daripada 10 pelancong asing yang memasuki negara ini. China pula mencatat pertumbuhan memberangsangkan sebanyak 27.5 peratus, manakala India melonjak 22.5 peratus, menjadikan ketiga-tiga negara ini sumber pelancong paling pesat berkembang," katanya pada Persidangan Bursa Malaysia-Hong Leong Investment Bank Stratum Focus Series ke-20, di sini, hari ini.

Sempena TMM2026, kerajaan menyasarkan kemasukan 40 juta pelancong asing dengan jangkaan pulangan RM216 bilion, selain 280 juta pelawat domestik. 

Ia adalah sasaran terbesar dalam sejarah penganjuran kempen Tahun Melawat Malaysia. 

Tourism Malaysia menjangkakan gelombang ini akan memberi impak langsung kepada peningkatan peluang komersial, termasuk pembukaan cawangan baharu, pembangunan produk pelancongan, dan pengukuhan perkhidmatan sokongan. 

Data Tourism Malaysia juga menunjukkan 63 peratus daripada kemasukan adalah pelancong berbanding pelawat harian, menandakan trend pelawat kini lebih cenderung tinggal lebih lama di Malaysia. 

"Pelancong bermalam menyumbang kepada perbelanjaan lebih tinggi yang menjadi faktor penting dalam merancakkan ekonomi tempatan. 

"Dalam konteks TMM2026, tumpuan turut diberikan kepada usaha meningkatkan purata tempoh tinggal serta mengubah pelawat singkat atau pelawat harian supaya menjadi pelancong sepenuhnya," kata Salinda. 

Ia digerakkan melalui usaha mengenal pasti produk pelancongan baharu, pakej unik, aktiviti malam, dan pengalaman mendalam bagi menggalakkan pelancong memanjangkan tempoh lawatan. 

Menyedari kepentingan capaian pelancong global, Tourism Malaysia menetapkan strategi promosi TMM2026 dengan komposisi 70 peratus digital dan 30 peratus tradisional. 

Pendekatan ini dijangka mewujudkan peluang luas kepada syarikat tempatan memanfaatkan pemasaran media sosial, kandungan digital, serta kerjasama dengan pencipta kandungan antarabangsa. 

Pendekatan digital yang lebih agresif ini dijangka mengukuhkan imej Malaysia sebagai destinasi pelancongan serba lengkap, khususnya untuk segmen pelancong muda, premium, mesra Muslim, perubatan dan kesihatan, kulinari, pendidikan serta pelancongan bercampur urusan kerja dan rekreasi yang kini semakin mendapat permintaan. 

Selari dengan strategi menarik pengunjung, TMM2026 turut menekankan peningkatan akses antarabangsa melalui tambahan kekerapan penerbangan dan kapasiti tempat duduk selain inisiatif seperti visa percuma untuk pelancong China dan India yang menyumbang kepada peningkatan mendadak pelancong dari kedua-dua negara itu. 

Jika momentum ini kekal stabil sehingga TMM2026, Malaysia berpotensi mengulangi kejayaan kempen TMM1990, TMM2007 dan TMM2014, sekali gus meletakkan negara dalam radar global sebagai destinasi pelancongan terkemuka dunia.

-berita harian online.

Tourist arrivals seen rising as Malaysia gears up for 2026

 

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia's target of attracting 47 million visitors next year will be supported by stronger connectivity, broader promotional campaigns and enhanced tourism offerings, said the Malaysia Tourism Promotion Board (Tourism Malaysia). 

Its strategic planning division senior director Salinda Sany said the agency expects a significant rise in foreign tourist arrivals in 2026 as the country gears up for Visit Malaysia 2026. 

Tourism Malaysia has set a target of 40 million tourist arrivals this year, with current momentum suggesting the figure could be surpassed.

"From January to August, Malaysia recorded 28.2 million foreign visitors, a 14.5 per cent year-on-year increase, surpassing pre-pandemic levels," Salinda said at the 20th Bursa Malaysia–Hong Leong Investment Bank Stratum Focus Series presentation today. 

Salinda said that tourism's critical contribution to the economy, noting that it accounted for 15.1 per cent of gross domestic product, equivalent to RM291 billion. 

"One out of every six ringgit generated in our economy comes from tourism activities," she said, adding that foreign visitor spending directly strengthens Malaysia's fiscal position.

Of the 28.2 million foreign arrivals recorded up to August, 63 per cent were overnight tourists, while 37 per cent were day-trippers. 

"Tourists stay longer, spend more, and contribute to higher receipts and broader economic benefits," Salinda added. 

Singapore remained Malaysia's largest source market, accounting for five out of every 10 foreign visitors, or 13.9 million arrivals, followed by China with 3.26 million, boosted by visa-free entry and stronger connectivity. 

Other key markets include Indonesia, Thailand, and India, with arrivals from India showing a 94 per cent increase compared with 2019. 

"Malaysia continues to be among the top performers in Asean, alongside Vietnam, with both countries recording positive growth compared with 2019," she said. 

Malaysia currently has more than 5,300 hotels offering 350,000 rooms, with hotel occupancy at 54.1 per cent in the first half of 2025, higher than the previous year. 

Domestic travellers made up 64 per cent of hotel guests, accounting for 48.7 million stays, indicating strong internal tourism activity. 

Tourism Malaysia functions as the promotional arm of the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, overseeing marketing, advertising, and branding, while the ministry handles policy and licensing. 

For Visit Malaysia 2026, the government targets RM216 billion in foreign tourism receipts in 2025 and RM329 billion in 2026. 

Domestic visitor targets stand at 280 million for 2025 and 302 million for 2026. 

To achieve these targets, Malaysia plans to strengthen branding under campaigns such as Malaysia Truly Asia and Cuti-Cuti Malaysia, expand collaborations with airlines and online travel agencies, and improve accessibility via air, land, and sea connectivity. 

The country also aims to promote niche segments, including luxury, wellness, cruise tourism, Muslim-friendly travel, and the Malaysia My Second Home programme. 

"Nowadays, digital marketing is a priority because most travel inspirations come from platforms like TikTok and social media. It helps us reach travellers and encourage them to spend and visit Malaysia," Salinda added.

-nst online.