Domestic tourism expenditure increased 12pct YoY in Q2 2026

 

KUALA LUMPUR: Domestic tourism expenditure rose 12.3 per cent in the second quarter ended June 30, 2026 from a year ago, to RM32.8 billion, as the number of domestic tourists increased by 7.9 per cent year-on-year (YoY) to 29.6 million. 

Nevertheless, expenditure decreased by 3.6 per cent from the first quarter of the year when the number stood at RM34 billion, said the Department of Statistics Malaysia (DOSM) in a statement. 

A tourist is defined as visitors who travelled and stayed for at least one night, according to DOSM. 

Meanwhile, the number of domestic visitors increased 4.3 per cent in Q2 2026 from the corresponding quarter in 2025 to 73.8 million, according to DOSM. 

Visiting relatives and friends remained the predominant reason for domestic travel, accounting for 44.1 per cent of total domestic visitors, the department stated. This was followed by shopping (21.6 per cent) and holidays (13 per cent). 

"Overall, the second quarter performance indicates that Malaysia's domestic tourism remained resilient, supported by continued growth in both visitor and tourist numbers," stated DOSM.

The department noted that the 12.3 per cent growth in expenditure outpaced the 4.3 per cent increase in domestic visitors number, signalling stronger tourism spending.

-Tourism Malaysia.

Tourism industry hits RM323bil, contributes 15.9pct to Malaysia's economy

 

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia's tourism industry generated RM323 billion in value added in 2025, contributing 15.9 per cent to the country's gross domestic product (GDP), according to the Department of Statistics Malaysia (DOSM). 

The Tourism Satellite Account 2025 report showed that the industry expanded 8.6 per cent last year, up from 7.8 per cent in 2024, driven by strong demand from inbound and domestic tourism expenditure. 

Internal tourism expenditure rose 15.2 per cent to RM236.9 billion in 2025, from RM205.6 billion a year earlier. 

Inbound tourism expenditure accounted for 52.7 per cent of total internal tourism expenditure, while domestic tourism expenditure made up the remaining 47.3 per cent. 

Inbound tourism expenditure surged 16.5 per cent to RM124.8 billion, compared with a 41.3 per cent increase in 2024. 

Tourists accounted for 95.6 per cent of inbound tourism expenditure, while excursionists made up 4.4 per cent.

Domestic tourism expenditure also grew 13.8 per cent to RM112.1 billion, compared with 25.1 per cent growth in 2024. 

Tourists accounted for 58.3 per cent of domestic tourism expenditure, while excursionists contributed 41.7 per cent. 

Retail trade made up the largest share of tourism industry's value added at 50.6 per cent, followed by food and beverage at 16.4 per cent and country-specific tourism characteristic services, including health and meeting, incentive, conference and exhibition activities, at 13.1 per cent. 

Accommodation contributed 9.3 per cent, while cultural, sports and recreational activities accounted for 4.3 per cent. 

Meanwhile, tourism-related industries employed 3.7 million people in 2025, representing 22.1 per cent of total employment in Malaysia. 

Employment in the tourism-related industries grew 3.5 per cent last year, compared with 4.6 per cent in 2024. 

Retail trade was the largest contributor to tourism-related employment at 37.9 per cent, followed by food and beverage serving services at 36.7 per cent and country-specific tourism characteristic services at 10.5 per cent. 

Together, the three subsectors accounted for 85.1 per cent of total employment in tourism-related industries.

-nst online.

Malaysia ranked world's 6th-best medical tourism destination, led by Penang

 

State Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Wong Hon Wai described the achievement as a proud moment for both the nation and the state. NSTP / AURIS FAQRURAZZI

GEORGE TOWN: Malaysia has been ranked the world's sixth-best medical tourism destination, with Penang continuing to lead the country's healthcare travel sector. 

State Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Wong Hon Wai described the achievement as a proud moment for both the nation and the state. 

"Congratulations, Malaysia, and congratulations, Penang!

"The latest ranking of the world's Top 10 Medical Tourism Destinations is a proud achievement that reflects the collective efforts of Malaysia's healthcare system, tourism industry and government agencies over many years. 

"Malaysia has emerged as one of Asia's leading medical tourism destinations, supported by internationally accredited hospitals, English-speaking healthcare professionals, modern medical technologies, affordable healthcare services and strong government support," he said in a Facebook post.

According to the 2026 Global Top 10 Medical Tourism Destinations ranking published by Travel And Tour World, Turkey topped the list, followed by Thailand, India, Mexico, South Korea, Malaysia, Costa Rica, Singapore, the United Arab Emirates and Colombia. 

The report said Turkey secured first place due to its affordable treatment costs, advanced medical technologies and high-quality healthcare services, while Malaysia's ranking was driven by its internationally accredited hospitals, English-speaking medical workforce and well-developed medical tourism ecosystem. 

It also noted that Malaysia is particularly sought after for cardiology, oncology, fertility treatments, orthopaedics, cosmetic and plastic surgery, dental care, ophthalmology, health screening, rehabilitation services and wellness programmes. 

According to the latest figures, Malaysia's medical tourism revenue increased 23.2 per cent to RM3.35 billion in 2025 from RM2.72 billion in 2024. 

The number of medical tourists also grew 15.6 per cent to 1.85 million in 2025 from 1.6 million a year earlier, reflecting continued international confidence in the country's healthcare services and competitive pricing. 

Wong said Penang remained Malaysia's leading medical tourism destination, contributing about 45 per cent of the country's total medical tourism revenue. 

Data from the Penang Centre of Medical Tourism (PMED), covering 16 private hospitals in the state, showed Penang received 527,176 foreign patients in 2025, up 25.94 per cent from 418,608 in 2024. 

Medical tourism revenue in the state rose 26.6 per cent to RM1.137 billion in 2025 from RM898.07 million the previous year. 

"Penang's sustained leadership is driven by several key advantages, particularly its ability to provide exceptional value for money through high-quality healthcare services at competitive prices. 

"Compared with Singapore and many Western countries, patients can enjoy substantial cost savings while receiving internationally recognised standards of care. 

"We also have a significant multilingual advantage. Penang's population is proficient in Malay, English, Mandarin, Tamil and Chinese dialects including Hokkien, Teochew, Hakka and Cantonese, enabling effective communication with international patients. 

"For Indonesian patients, especially those from Medan who commonly speak Hokkien, language barriers are minimal. 

This enhances their overall experience and further strengthens Penang's position as the preferred medical tourism destination for Indonesian patients," he added.

-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.

Rakyat Malaysia belanja RM121 bilion melancong dalam negara tahun lalu

 

KUALA LUMPUR: Perbelanjaan pelancongan domestik Malaysia meningkat 12.4 peratus pada suku tahun keempat 2025 kepada RM32.6 bilion, menjadikan jumlah keseluruhan tahunan sebanyak RM121 bilion, demikian menurut Jabatan Perangkaan Malaysia (DOSM). 

Prestasi itu mencerminkan momentum pertumbuhan sektor pelancongan domestik yang terus kukuh, disokong permintaan dalam negara serta peningkatan aktiviti perjalanan bermusim, khususnya ketika cuti sekolah dan musim perayaan. 

Bilangan pelawat domestik turut meningkat kepada 74 juta pada suku berkenaan, naik 10.8 peratus tahun ke tahun, manakala secara suku ke suku mencatatkan pertumbuhan 2.0 peratus berbanding suku ketiga 2025. 

Ketua Perangkawan Malaysia, Datuk Seri Dr Mohd Uzir Mahidin, berkata peningkatan aktiviti perjalanan dalam kalangan rakyat tempatan menjadi pemacu utama prestasi sektor itu.

Beliau berkata, perbelanjaan lebih tinggi bagi penginapan, makanan dan minuman, pengangkutan serta aktiviti runcit turut menyumbang kepada pengukuhan sektor pelancongan domestik.  

"Indikator industri berkaitan pelancongan menunjukkan trend sejajar apabila ketibaan penumpang domestik di lapangan terbang meningkat 17.9 peratus tahun ke tahun, manakala jualan runcit bahan api automotif berkembang 7.1 peratus, mencerminkan mobiliti yang lebih tinggi.

"Subsektor penginapan juga mencatatkan prestasi memberangsangkan dengan hasil meningkat 14.7 peratus tahun ke tahun, selain kadar penghunian hotel yang bertambah merentasi semua kategori. 

"Bagi keseluruhan tahun 2025, jumlah pelawat domestik mencecah 290.1 juta, meningkat 11.5 peratus berbanding 260.1 juta pada 2024," katanya dalam satu kenyataan. 

Mohd Uzir menambah, perbelanjaan pelancongan domestik pula mencatatkan pertumbuhan 13.3 peratus tahun ke tahun kepada RM121 bilion, sekali gus mencerminkan peningkatan sumbangan sektor itu kepada ekonomi domestik. 

"Secara keseluruhan, sektor pelancongan domestik terus menjadi antara pemacu utama pertumbuhan ekonomi negara, selain menyokong perusahaan mikro, kecil dan sederhana (PMKS) serta memperkukuh daya tahan ekonomi," katanya.

-berita harian online.

Tiong: Malaysia on track to welcome 47mil tourists for 2026

 

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia recorded 24.5 million visitors between January and July this year, a 16.8 per cent increase compared with 21 million in the same period last year. 

Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing said visitor spending had also surged by 174 per cent, reaching RM161.9 billion. 

Citing the Tourism Satellite Account 2024 report, he said the tourism sector contributed 15.1 per cent, or RM291.9 billion, to the national gross domestic product – a 7.4 per cent increase from 2023, which saw a contribution of 14.9 per cent, or RM271.9 billion. 

"Malaysia received 38 million foreign visitors in 2024, an increase of 31.1 per cent compared with the previous year. 

"Visitor expenditure also rose by 43.7 per cent to RM106.8 billion," he said in a written parliamentary reply yesterday. 

Tiong was responding to Afnan Hamimi Taib Azamudden (PN–Alor Setar) regarding the country's tourism industry achievements and performance for 2024 and 2025, including international tourist arrival statistics, overall tourism sector revenue, as well as the success of major initiatives or programmes that have been implemented.

Tiong said the ministry would continue rolling out various measures to draw more tourists, encourage longer stays and boost spending, adding that these efforts had already yielded encouraging results. 

He added that the government was also prioritising improved accessibility through increased flight frequencies, alongside tourism and cultural programmes, including business events. 

"These efforts aim to achieve the target of 47 million foreign visitors and RM329 billion in tourism revenue for the Visit Malaysia 2026 campaign," Tiong said.

-nst online.

Sabah records 10.67 million tourists, RM23.4 billion in spending

 

KOTA KINABALU: Sabah recorded 10.67 million tourist arrivals with total spending reaching RM23.42 billion between 2021 and 2025. 

Sabah caretaker Chief Minister Datuk Seri Hajiji Noor said that the growth of the tourism sector has also generated more employment for the people. 

He said over 360,000 job opportunities have been created since 2023 through the preservation and restoration of historical sites, the upgrading and construction of recreational facilities, and urban beautification projects that benefit the local community. 

"The state's vast tourism potential has spurred significant tourism-based developments by prominent companies, including Sheraton Hotel Kota Kinabalu, Club Med Borneo Kuala Penyu, InterContinental Hotel Papar, Hilton Garden Inn Resort Tuaran, Hyatt Centric Hotel Kota Kinabalu, and Citadines Waterfront Hotel Kota Kinabalu. 

"Additionally, with an increase to 207 domestic and 126 international flights at KKIA each week, it proves Sabah remains a key destination, especially for tourists from Brunei, China, Indonesia, the Philippines, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan, and Vietnam," he said at the 2025 Sabah Civil Service Convention held at the Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC). 

He added that the tourism sector was part of the state's Hala Tuju SMJ 1.0 development plan, which covered multiple economic sectors, and has achieved remarkable progress and results that exceeded expectations.

In the agricultural sector, for instance, one notable achievement was a RM620 million investment in coconut cultivation and downstream industries by Linaco Resources Sdn Bhd. 

"Sabah's investment performance reflects investor confidence in the government, supported by the efficiency of the civil service. 

"From 2021 until the second quarter of this year, the manufacturing sector recorded RM24.9 billion in investments from 87 foreign and domestic investors," he said. 

He said major high-value investments included RM4.29 billion from SK Nexilis, RM3.43 billion from SBH Kibing Solar, as well as Esteel Enterprise Sabah Sdn Bhd, which has a three-phase investment totalling RM6.59 billion. 

PETRONAS has also begun operations at the Sipitang Oil and Gas Industrial Park (SOGIP), showing that investments in the state are not limited to domestic sources but also come from international investors, he said. 

He added that these investments have benefited the people of Sabah as a whole, creating more than 38,000 job opportunities for locals. 

One of the government's most significant achievements in the oil and gas sector was the signing of the Commercial Collaboration Agreement (CCA) between the Sabah State Government and PETRONAS on 7 December 2021, marking a new era of Sabah's participation in the industry, he said. 

As a result, Sabah Energy Corporation (SEC) has been appointed as the main gas supplier and transporter, now possessing domestic gas capacity exceeding 250 million cubic feet per day, with the industry's total revenue expected to surpass RM2.5 billion annually — making it one of the state's primary revenue contributors. 

SMJ Energy Sdn Bhd, a wholly owned Sabah government company, which initially started with limited capital, has grown its value to RM5 billion within three years, with total assets of RM4.9 billion and a profit of RM307 million, he said.

-nst online.

Govt Eyes RM200 Million From Homestay Sector

 

The government is setting its sights on generating RM200 million in revenue from Malaysia’s homestay sector in 2026, leveraging the momentum of Visit Malaysia Year 2026 (VM2026) to strengthen the country’s rural tourism and community-based economic ecosystem. 

Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, who also heads the Rural and Regional Development Ministry, said the initiative reflects the government’s broader push to make homestays a key economic pillar and a symbol of Malaysian hospitality. 

“Homestays are the heartbeat that connects tourists with rural communities. They not only generate income but also preserve culture, strengthen unity and create new opportunities for the younger generation,” Ahmad Zahid said. 

Ahmad Zahid shared that the government is implementing 12 financing schemes and grants across multiple agencies to help operators upgrade facilities, improve guest experiences and increase competitiveness. 

“These initiatives enable operators to enhance the quality of their premises and enrich visitors’ experiences, ensuring sustainability and long-term growth for community-based tourism,” he said. 

To strengthen the ecosystem, he revealed that more than RM1.1 million has been allocated for rural road and community facility upgrades, improving accessibility and visitor infrastructure around homestay locations. 

On the international front, promotional efforts are being intensified through sales missions, trade exhibitions and tourism seminars in key markets, including Indonesia, China, South Korea, Japan, Vietnam and New Zealand. Digital channels such as jomhomestay.my and go2homestay.my have been developed to support marketing and booking initiatives. 

“These efforts are part of a coordinated strategy to position Malaysia’s homestay offerings as a sustainable, culturally immersive tourism product aligned with global travel trends favouring experiential tourism,” Ahmad Zahid said. 

He added that in line with the government’s commitment to inclusive growth, the ministry is empowering women entrepreneurs through the JELITA TVET and Homestay Operations Training Programmes, conducted by the Institute for Rural Advancement, providing Malaysian Skills Certificates Levels 2 and 3 in homestay entrepreneurship. 

“We want to ensure rural communities benefit directly from Malaysia’s tourism growth story while maintaining the authenticity that makes our destinations unique,” Ahmad Zahid said.

-Business Today.

Domestic tourism up 7.8pct year-on-year in Q2 – DOSM

 

PUTRAJAYA: Malaysia recorded 73.8 million domestic visitors in the second quarter of 2025, an increase of 7.8 per cent compared with the same period last year, according to a report released today by the Department of Statistics Malaysia (DOSM). 

The report, based on the Malaysia Domestic Tourism Survey (DTS) for the second quarter of 2025 and the annual 2024 statistics by state, also showed that domestic visitor numbers rose 5.8 per cent on a quarter-on-quarter basis from the first quarter of 2025. 

Meanwhile, the number of domestic tourists in the second quarter of 2025 stood at 27.4 million, up 4.2 per cent compared with the first quarter of 2024. 

"Correspondingly, domestic tourism expenditure amounted to RM29.2 billion in the second quarter of 2025, reflecting a modest year-on-year growth of 3.8 per cent.

"However, it registered a slight quarter-on-quarter decline of 0.6 per cent," DOSM said in a statement. 

Chief Statistician Datuk Seri Dr Mohd Uzir Mahidin said in terms of domestic tourism performance by state in 2024, Selangor recorded the highest number of domestic visitors at 34.5 million, followed by the Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur (27.0 million) and Perak (21.8 million). 

"Perak also registered the highest number of tourist arrivals, rising by 36.1 per cent to 10.2 million visitors compared to 7.5 million in the previous year," he said, adding that in line with the positive growth in domestic visitor arrivals, all states recorded an increase in tourism receipts. 

Selangor registered the highest domestic tourism receipts in 2024 at RM14.2 billion, marking a 28.1 per cent increase from RM11.1 billion in 2023. This was followed by the Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur with RM14.1 billion, compared to RM11.0 billion previously. 

Pahang and Sabah also posted strong growth, with tourism receipts rising to RM8.7 billion (2023: RM6.7 billion) and RM8.6 billion (2023: RM6.7 billion), respectively. 

"Shopping remained the main contributor to tourism receipts, with a total of RM39.9 billion. The Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur led with RM6.8 billion, followed by Selangor (RM6.1 billion) and Sarawak (RM3.2 billion). 

"Food and beverage were the second-largest contributor, amounting to RM17.3 billion. Selangor led in this category with RM2.2 billion, followed by Kuala Lumpur (RM2.1 billion) and Perak (RM1.5 billion)," he said. 

Mohd Uzir said the rise in tourism receipts across all states reflects sustained demand for travel-related goods and services, particularly in shopping and food and beverage activities.

-nst online.

Tourism Malaysia sasar 45 juta pelawat, pulangan RM270 bilion

 

Penggiat industri pelancongan Perak hadir pada sesi libat urus yang dianjurkan Tourism Malaysia sebagai persediaan TMM2026 di Ipoh.

IPOH – Tourism Malaysia menyasarkan kutipan hasil pelancongan RM270 bilion dengan kehadiran 45 juta pelawat asing sepanjang tahun ini.

Timbalan Ketua Pengarah (Perancangan) Tourism Malaysia, Shahrin Mokhtar, berkata sasaran tersebut dilihat mampu dicapai berdasarkan perkembangan positif setakat ini apabila negara merekodkan ketibaan 6.7 juta pelawat asing sehingga Februari lalu.

“Jumlah ini mencatatkan peningkatan 31.3 peratus berbanding tempoh sama tahun lalu serta peningkatan 14.5 peratus berbanding tempoh sama pada 2019.

“Pada 2024 sahaja, negara menerima kehadiran 38 juta pelawat asing iaitu lonjakan 31.1 peratus berbanding tahun sebelumnya,” katanya ketika Sesi Libat Urus Bersama Penggiat Industri Pelancongan Negeri Perak di sini pada Selasa.

Turut hadir, Exco Pelancongan, Industri, Pelaburan dan Pembangunan Koridor Perak, Loh Sze Yee dan Speaker Dewan Undangan Negeri (DUN) Perak, Datuk Mohammad Zahir Abdul Khalid.

Menurut Shahrin, sebanyak 10 pasaran utama menyumbang jumlah ketibaan tertinggi ialah dari Singapura, Indonesia, China, Thailand, Brunei, India, Filipina, Korea Selatan, Australia dan Taiwan.

Tambahnya, kerjasama erat antara sektor awam dan swasta amat penting bagi memastikan kejayaan Tahun Melawat Malaysia (TMM) 2026.

“Beberapa sesi libat urus bersama negeri sedang dilaksanakan bagi memperkukuh persediaan menjelang TMM2026, di samping membina momentum merealisasikan agenda nasional ini,” katanya.

Beliau turut memaklumkan sebanyak RM130 juta diperuntukkan tahun ini dalam bentuk geran sokongan bagi merangsang pertumbuhan industri pelancongan.

Antara geran tersebut termasuk Geran Galakan Melancong (GAMELAN), Geran Sokongan Sektor Pelancongan (GSSP) dan Geran Sektor Penerbangan dan Charter (GSPC).

“Diharapkan penggiat industri memanfaatkan peluang ini untuk menganjurkan acara serta aktiviti promosi yang mampu menyemarakkan sambutan TMM2026,” ujarnya. 

Sementara itu, Loh Sze Yee berkata, kerajaan negeri menyalurkan peruntukan tambahan RM4 juta bagi menaik taraf dan menambah baik infrastruktur pelancongan di seluruh negeri sebagai sebahagian persiapan menyambut TMM2026.

“Kami berharap Tourism Malaysia dapat terus membantu mempromosikan pelancongan negeri ini melalui platform nasional dan antarabangsa.

“Kami juga memohon Kementerian Pelancongan, Seni dan Budaya (MOTAC) mempertimbangkan pemberian geran serta bantuan kepada pemain industri supaya mereka dapat terus berkembang, berinovasi dan menarik lebih ramai pelancong,” katanya.

-Sinar Harian.

Strong tourism growth anticipated in Langkawi

 

Pelangi Beach Resort & Spa remains optimistic about its business expansion despite rising competition in Langkawi.

KUALA LUMPUR: The 2025 outlook for Langkawi's hospitality industry looks highly promising, with strong indicators of robust tourism sector growth. 

The island is poised for major development under the Greater Kedah 2050 roadmap, emphasising eco-tourism, luxury resorts, and economic expansion. 

Langkawi is targeting 3.5 million tourist arrivals in 2025 — a goal deemed "safely achievable" by industry observers — aligning with Visit Kedah Year 2025 and preparations for Visit Malaysia Year 2026. 

The island attracted 2.9 million visitors last year, generating RM7.03 billion in tourism receipts, up from 2.81 million visitors and RM6.43 billion in 2023.

Amid this growing demand, Pelangi Beach Resort & Spa, part of the Tradewinds Hotels & Resorts portfolio, remains optimistic about its business expansion despite rising competition in Langkawi. 

General manager Neoh Kean Boon reported steady growth in tourist arrivals compared to 2019 figures.

"We're seeing growth from both well-established markets that have visited Langkawi for decades and new markets just beginning to explore the island's charm," Neoh told NST Property via email. 

In response to rising demand, the five-star resort has launched an extensive renovation of its meeting and banquet facilities, with completion expected this quarter. 

"The resort will unveil a new grand ballroom annex and fully upgraded pre-function and meeting rooms, allowing us to host events for up to 3,000 guests across our various spaces," Neoh said. 

Langkawi Development Authority chief executive officer Datuk Haslina Abdul Hamid said last month that the increase in visitor spending underscores the island's growing reputation as a premium travel destination. 

She highlighted two key milestones achieved in 2024: the highest-ever international tourism receipts at RM5.1 billion and a record-breaking 1.7 million international arrivals. These figures surpassed the previous records set in 2018, when the island recorded RM4.638 billion in international receipts and 1.54 million international arrivals. 

State Tourism, Culture, Arts and Entrepreneurship Committee chairman Datuk Mohd Salleh Saidin reported a significant rise in hotel occupancy rates in December 2024, with data from the Malaysian Association of Hotels showing an average occupancy of 78 per cent. 

Ferry operators also noted a surge in tourist arrivals during the school holiday season, with over 100,000 visitors travelling to Langkawi by ferry since December 20. 

Langkawi International Airport general manager Che Sulaiman Che Pa had confirmed the increase in air travel arrivals since December 1, with the airport handling 3,900 to 4,900 passengers daily across 27 to 31 flights — a jump from the previous 2,800 to 4,000 passengers and 21 to 29 flights.

-nst online.

VM2026 campaign to contribute to nation's collective tourism success

 

KUALA LUMPUR: The Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026) campaign, launched on Monday, is set to boost hotel occupancy rates, elevate Malaysia's international profile, and contribute to the nation's collective tourism success.

"The hospitality industry is ready to support the government's aspirations. With tailored packages and an unwavering commitment to excellence, our hotels will be well-prepared to meet the needs of the anticipated influx of tourists by 2026," the Malaysian Association of Hotels (MAH) said in a statement.

The campaign, officiated by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, included the unveiling of a vibrant batik-patterned logo, the "Surreal Experiences" theme song, and Malayan Sun Bear mascots named Wira and Manja. Malaysia has set an ambitious target of attracting 35.6 million visitors and generating RM147.1 billion in revenue for VM2026, exceeding the 2025 goals of 31.4 million visitors and RM77 billion in revenue.

Tourism Malaysia stated that VM2026 is designed to boost tourism revenue, enhance Malaysia's global competitiveness in the tourism sector, and solidify its role as a major contributor to the country's gross domestic product.

While MAH applauds the campaign's ambitious targets, it emphasises the critical role of effective marketing to ensure these goals are met.

MAH president Christina Toh expressed optimism, urging the government to match its high aspirations with strong promotional efforts.

"2026 is only 11 months away, which is just around the corner. Before then, it is vital for VM2026 promotional activities to reach global audiences effectively.

"As always, MAH stands ready to collaborate with the Tourism, Arts, and Culture Ministry (MOTAC) and other stakeholders to ensure the success of our national tourism efforts," she added.

As a strategic partner of VM2026, MAH remains committed to representing the hospitality industry in driving Malaysia's tourism success.

-nst online.

Tahun Melawat Melaka 2024 tarik 15 juta pelancong, jana hasil RM12.68 bilion - Ab Rauf

 

MELAKA: Tahun Melawat Melaka 2024 (TMM2024) berjaya merekodkan kehadiran 15 juta pelancong, menepati sasaran ditetapkan kerajaan negeri.

Serentak itu, Melaka turut berjaya menjana hasil keseluruhan RM12.68 bilion menerusi pelbagai aktiviti pelancongan sepanjang penganjuran TMM2024 sejak Januari tahun lalu.

Berikutan kejayaan berkenaan, Ketua Menteri, Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh, berkata TMM akan diteruskan sehingga 2026 sejajar dengan Tahun Melawat Malaysia yang bakal dianjurkan tahun depan.

Beliau berterima kasih dan menghargai kerjasama serta komitmen semua jabatan, agensi, badan bukan kerajaan (NGO), pengamal media serta semua pihak yang menyumbang tenaga menjayakan TMM2024.

"Usaha ini selaras dengan pemilihan Melaka sebagai tuan rumah Hari Pelancongan Sedunia (WTD) dan Persidangan Pelancongan Sedunia (WTC) 2025, disusuli Tahun Melawat Malaysia 2026 (VM2026)," katanya pada majlis perasmian Ambang Tahun Baharu 2025 dan pelancaran WTD 2025 di Banda Hilir, di sini malam tadi.

Perasmian disempurnakan oleh Yang di-Pertua Negeri, Tun Dr Mohd Ali Mohd Rustam dan turut dihadiri EXCO Kanan Perumahan, Kerajaan Tempatan, Saliran, Perubahan Iklim dan Pengurusan Bencana Melaka, Datuk Rais Yasin serta EXCO Pelancongan, Warisan, Seni dan Budaya negeri, Datuk Abd Razak Abd Rahman.

Yang hadir sama, Pengerusi Kumpulan Media Prima Berhad (Media Prima), Datuk Seri Dr Syed Hussian Aljunid; Ketua Pegawai Operasi Media Prima Omnia, Datuk Mohd Effendi Omar dan Pengarang Kumpulan Jabatan Berita dan Ehwal Semasa, Rangkaian Televisyen Media Prima, Azhari Muhidin.

Lebih 50,000 pengunjung membanjiri Banda Hilir bagi memeriahkan sambutan itu yang diakhiri dengan pertunjukan bunga api.

Ab Rauf berkata, kerajaan negeri juga berterima kasih kepada Kementerian Pelancongan, Seni dan Budaya (MOTAC) atas kepercayaan kepada Melaka sebagai tuan rumah sempena WTD dan WTC 2025 pada September depan.

"Kalau dahulu, kita bergiat aktif mempromosikan Melaka sehingga ke luar negara, sekarang sebagai kota pelancongan terhebat, kita membawa dunia ke Melaka pula," katanya.

Melaka dipilih sebagai tuan rumah WTD dan WTC 2025 mewakili Malaysia selepas Pertubuhan Pelancongan Sedunia (UNWTO) tahun lalu sepakat memilih Malaysia sebagai lokasi penganjuran program berprestij itu tahun ini.

Acara berkenaan yang dijadual berlangsung pada 27 September depan bertemakan 'Tourism and Sustainable Transformation'.

-berita harian online.

Hasil pelancongan Perlis catat peningkatan RM1.03 juta

 

KANGAR: Perlis merekodkan peningkatan hasil pelancongan sebanyak RM1,038,168 serta kehadiran seramai 523,171 orang pelancong ke negeri berkenaan sejak Tahun Melawat Perlis 2024-2025 dilancarkan awal tahun ini.

Peningkatan berkenaan direkodkan sehingga Oktober lalu adalah hasil terus kepada komuniti atau ke jabatan negeri melalui jualan tiket produk atau di lokasi pelancongan di bawah seliaan jabatan negeri itu.

Exco Pelancongan, Seni dan Budaya negeri, Abu Bakar Hamzah berkata, peningkaan berkenaan dicatatkan di pelbagai lokasi eko pelancongan yang sering menjadi tarikan terutamanya di bawah pengurusan Jabatan Perhutanan Negeri Perlis.

"Antaranya adalah Kompleks Eko Pelancongan Sungai Batu Pahat, Kompleks Eko Pelancongan Gua Kelam, Taman Negeri Perlis, Viewpoint Wang Kelian dan Taman Eko Rimba Bukit Kubu.

"Bagi kawasan pendakian pula adalah seperti di Pintu Wang Gunung, Bukit Jernih, Bukit Wang Mu, Gunung Perlis dan Bukit Pelarit manakala bagi tempat pelancongan yang berada di bawah kelolaan Jabatan Pertanian Negeri Perlis pula, jumlah kutipan hasil di Taman Buah-Buahan Eksotik adalah sebanyak RM48,077.

"Selain itu, lokasi pelancongan yang turut menjadi tumpuan orang ramai di negeri ini adalah Taman Agrovet yang diselia oleh Jabatan Veterinar Negeri Perlis dimana sehingga bulan lalu sahaja, ia mencatatkan kedatangan pelancong seramai 58,658 orang dan jumlah kutipan hasil sehingga Oktober lalu pula adalah sebanyak RM105,920 yang mana bayaran tiket masuk ke tempat berkenaan sudah dilaksanakan sejak Disember tahun lalu dengan bayaran sebanyak RM1 ke RM2 mengikut ketetapan usia," katanya.

Beliau berkata demikian ketika menjawab soalan Saad Seman (Perikatan Nasional (PN)/PAS-Chuping) semasa Mesyuarat Keempat, Penggal Persidangan Kedua, Dewan Undangan Negeri (DUN) Perlis ke-15 di Kompleks DUN, di sini hari ini.

Saad sebelum itu mengemukakan soalan berhubung prestasi kerajaan negeri dan jumlah hasil yang di perolehi oleh Kerajaan Negeri Perlis sehingga terkini bagi tahun ini serta jumlah pelawat dan pelancong dalam dan luar negara yang direkodkan serta lokasi tempat yang popular di lawati oleh pelawat dan pelancong di negeri itu.

-berita harian online.

Pelancongan dijangka sumbang RM198.7 bilion kepada ekonomi tahun ini

 

KUALA LUMPUR: Sektor pelancongan dijangka menyumbang sebanyak RM198.7 bilion atau 10.5 peratus kepada ekonomi negara pada 2024.

Laporan Economic Impact Research (EIR) 2024 oleh World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) menjangkakan sektor pelancongan Malaysia dapat mencapai pertumbuhan yang luar biasa pada tahun ini disokong oleh pengukuhan ekonomi, pekerjaan dan perbelanjaan domestik.

Menurut laporan itu, angka terbabit juga melepasi paras prapandemik pada 2019 sebanyak 1.6 peratus.

Katanya, pekerjaan dalam sektor perjalanan dan pelancongan dijangka meningkat dengan ketara kepada lebih daripada 2.4 juta, naik 5.2 peratus berbanding tahun lalu dan 5.3 peratus melebihi kemuncak 2019.

"Perbelanjaan pelancong juga diramalkan mengalami pertumbuhan yang besar dengan perbelanjaan pelancong domestik dijangka mencecah RM106.5 bilion.

"Perbelanjaan pelancong antarabangsa pula dijangka mencecah RM93.7 bilion, meningkat 27.8 peratus daripada 2023.

"Jangkaan pertumbuhan dalam sektor itu akan dilengkapkan dengan pelan hala tuju strategik 'Tahun Melawat Malaysia 2026' diumumkan kerajaan baru-baru ini, yang bertujuan untuk menarik lebih ramai pelancong antarabangsa," katanya dalam satu kenyataan hari ini.

Presiden dan Ketua Pegawai Eksekutif WTTC, Julia Simpson, berkata pertumbuhan dalam sektor perjalanan dan pelancongan Malaysia menyerlahkan komitmen kerajaan untuk menjadikan pelancongan sebagai asas pembangunan ekonomi.

"Fokus ini bukan sahaja memacu kemajuan ekonomi tetapi juga meningkatkan kedudukan Malaysia sebagai destinasi pelancongan utama.

"Melangkah ke hadapan, menjelang 2034 kami meramalkan sektor perjalanan dan pelancongan Malaysia akan meningkatkan sumbangannya kepada Keluaran Dalam Negara Kasar (KDNK) kepada RM336.6 bilion, membentuk 12.1 peratus daripada ekonomi negara.

"Pekerjaan dalam sektor itu dijangka melebihi 3.5 juta pekerja, menunjukkan peranan pentingnya dalam tenaga kerja negara dan menggaji satu daripada enam warganegara," katanya.

Pada 2023, sektor perjalanan dan pelancongan negara menyaksikan pemulihan yang ketara, berkembang sebanyak 97.8 peratus mencecah RM157 bilion, menyumbang 8.6 peratus daripada ekonomi negara.

Sektor itu juga menyumbang kepada penciptaan pekerjaan dengan jumlah guna tenaga mencecah hampir 2.3 juta, mencerminkan peningkatan tahun ke tahun sebanyak 10.8 peratus.

Perbelanjaan pelancong antarabangsa dan domestik mengalami peningkatan memberangsangkan dengan perbelanjaan pelancong antarabangsa mencecah RM73.3 bilion dan perbelanjaan pelancong domestik meningkat kepada RM87.6 bilion.

-berita harian online.

Tourism Malaysia Unveils Strategic Roadmap For VISIT MALAYSIA 2026

KUALA LUMPUR, 30 April 2024 – Tourism Malaysia had a prominent start on 30th April 2024 by organising a networking session with the industry players by presenting its strategic direction and action plans focussing on promoting Malaysia internationally and domestically. This direction and action plans were crafted during the engagement session with industry players to ensure the fast conversion and high impact programme and achieve the common goal in attracting 35.6 million tourists and generate RM147.1 billion in receipts for Visit Malaysia 2026.

The VM 2026 roadmap is built on three core strategies – creating demand, increasing traffic, and prioritising target markets. Key initiatives include branding and marketing blitz, strategic partnerships for joint promotions/tactical campaigns and market segmentation.

Malaysia's notable tourism achievements for the first quarter of 2024 are promising. During this period, from January to March, Malaysia saw a significant influx of foreign tourists, reaching 5.8 million arrivals. This marks a remarkable growth of 32.5% compared to the previous year's 4.3 million. The top ten markets contributing to this success were Singapore, Indonesia, China, Thailand, Brunei, India, South Korea, the United Kingdom, Australia, and the Philippines.

Tourism Malaysia will continue to empower its branding through aggressive advertising campaigns, influencer marketing, and compelling content creation across digital (70%) and traditional (30%) media platforms. The agency will also establish strategic partnerships with airlines, online travel agents (OTAs), and land/sea border operators of neighbouring countries to enhance tourist arrivals.

Key target markets are prioritised into three tiers, led by first-level priorities such as China, India, Indonesia, Vietnam and Australia. The second-level priorities include South Korea, Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries and the United Kingdom, followed by third-level priorities comprising Chinese Taipei and Germany. Apart from traditional markets such as Brunei, Thailand and Singapore, the focus is also highlighted on emerging markets like Pakistan and Bangladesh.

Meanwhile, tourism products and travel experiences will be tailored for niche segments like nature-based tourism, experiential tourism, medical & wellness tourism, responsible tourism, luxury, weddings, Muslim-friendly, gastronomy, and leisure travel.

YB Dato Sri Tiong King Sing, Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture, said: "Our multipronged VM 2026 strategy provides a comprehensive framework to boost Malaysia's visibility, enhance destination accessibility and elevate our tourism offerings. Through focused efforts and strategic collaborations, we are confident of achieving our yearly arrivals and target receipts in the run-up to VM 2026."

Tourism Malaysia will continue engaging industry stakeholders and international partners to refine and execute the VM 2026 strategies, positioning Malaysia as a preferred tourist destination in this region.

-Tourism Malaysia.

Malaysia sees promising growth for inbound tourism in 2024

 

Malaysia’s tourism industry is poised for a remarkable rebound, with projections indicating a surpassing of pre-pandemic levels from 2019 and a promising trajectory for future growth, bolstered by strategic collaborations and partnerships within the airline sector.

Malaysia welcomed 20.1 million international tourists in 2023, generating a substantial revenue of 71.3 billion ringgit (US$14.9 billion). Although this achievement exceeded the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture’s target of 16.1 million arrivals, it notably fell short of the robust figures seen in 2019, where 26.1 million international tourists contributed 86.1 billion ringgit to the country’s economy.

Addressing the APG Network Annual General Meeting 2024, deputy tourism, arts and culture minister Khairul Firdaus Akbar Khan articulated the government’s ambitious aspirations, setting a target of 27.3 million tourists and aiming for 102.7 billion ringgit in tourist expenditure for 2024.

He stressed the ongoing promotional initiatives and events, particularly highlighting the state-focused campaigns in Melaka, Kelantan, Perak, and Perlis. Expressing optimism, he underscored Malaysia’s commitment to surpassing pre-pandemic benchmarks, aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

Looking ahead, the government has set its sights even higher, with a tourism target of 31.4 million visitors and revenue of 125.5 billion ringgit slated for 2025. For Visit Malaysia 2026, an ambitious goal of attracting 35.6 million tourists is established, with an anticipated tourism revenue of 147.1 billion ringgit.

During his presentation at the event, Shahrin Mokhtar, director, strategic planning at Tourism Malaysia, highlighted the pivotal role of enhanced air connectivity in bolstering international arrivals to Malaysia.

He elaborated on the availability of a matching grant designed to incentivise airlines to initiate new services, augment existing frequencies, or introduce charter services to Malaysia.

Moreover, Tourism Malaysia is deepening its collaboration with local airlines flying on international routes, with a specific focus on promoting stopover programmes and seamlessly converting transit passengers at Kuala Lumpur International Airport into tourists, thereby harnessing the full tourism potential of the nation.

Emphasising the significance of strategic partnerships, Shahrin also underscored the importance of alliances with Middle Eastern airlines to attract European tourists to Malaysia. Additionally, he highlighted the value of collaborations with airlines operating in Singapore to entice more Chinese tourists to visit Malaysia.

These partnerships serve as vital conduits for diversifying and expanding Malaysia’s tourism base, tapping into key source markets and fostering sustainable growth in the industry.

Malaysia’s tourism sector is expected to generate earnings of 375.3 billion ringgit over the course of 2024 to the Visit Malaysia campaign year in 2026.

Khairul also shared that in 2023, Malaysia recorded 20.1 million tourists, successfully surpassing the government’s target of 16.1 million arrivals.

This year, the government has set a target of 27.3 million tourists which will attract some 102.7 billion ringgit in tourism revenue.

-TTG Asia.