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.

Sabah tourist arrivals up 4.1pc

 

Kota Kinabalu: Sabah tourist arrivals rose 4.1 per cent from January to August, disproving talk of a slump in the state’s tourism sector.

State Tourism, Culture and Environment Assistant Minister Dr Andi Md Shamsureezal Mohd Sainal said there had been an increase in both international and domestic arrivals during the period.

“The talk that Sabah’s tourism is declining is not true at all,” he said after officiating the opening ceremony of the Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (Matta) Fair Sabah at the Sabah International Convention Centre, here, Saturday.

“From January to August this year, tourist numbers increased 4.1 per cent. International arrivals rose about 6.9 per cent, while local Malaysian visitors grew 2.1 per cent compared with last year,” he said.

For the record, this is the second Matta Fair held in Sabah this year, following the first edition in April.

“This time, we brought in travel agents to offer very attractive packages to draw more tourists to Sabah,” he said.

“On behalf of the State Government, I greatly appreciate and support initiatives like this by Matta to increase tourist arrivals and to promote Sabah to the world,” he added.

Asked whether the fair was part of preparations for Visit Sabah 2027, Dr Andi said it was.

“Certainly, Matta Fair is one of the programmes we have planned. God willing, in November we will release the full calendar for Visit Sabah 2027,” he said.

He said Sabah was also being actively promoted overseas, pointing out that State Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Jafry Ariffin was currently in China to promote the state’s tourism sector.

The three-day fair is being held until today (Sunday) and is open to the public from 10am to 9pm.

It features 83 booths involving 28 tour and travel agencies, three hotels and resorts, two state tourism offices and four other travel-related service providers.

For the record, the April edition attracted an estimated 37,499 visitors and generated about RM24 million in sales.

For this edition, the Matta Sabah Chapter has set a target of 30,000 visitors and RM28 million in sales.

The fair is endorsed by the Sabah Tourism Board, with RHB Bank as the bank partner and Malaysia Aviation Group as the official airline partner and premier sponsor. Tourism Johor is also taking part.

Matta Sabah Chapter Chairman Alex Chong said the fair was more than a platform for selling holiday packages.

“It connects travellers with professional travel agents and tourism businesses while creating opportunities across the wider tourism ecosystem,” he said.

He said this year’s theme, “Discover More. Travel More. Experience More”, reflected the association’s encouragement for Sabahans to explore destinations in Sabah, Malaysia and overseas.

“At the same time, we are promoting Sabah as a destination for domestic and international travellers,” he said.

Present were Matta president Nigel Wong, among others.

-Daily Express.

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.

Global air travel nears 10bil passengers; KLIA breaks into world's top 20

 

KUALA LUMPUR: Global air travel moved closer to the 10 billion-passenger mark in 2025, with the Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) in Sepang emerging as one of the biggest gainers in global rankings, according to data released by Airports Council International (ACI) World. 

KLIA climbed six places to 20th from 26th in 2024, the largest jump among the world's 20 busiest airports, after handling 63.4 million passengers, an 11 per cent increase from a year earlier. 

The airport's growth was driven by a 17 per cent rise in domestic traffic, an 8.7 per cent increase in international passenger volumes, expanded airline capacity and stronger connectivity with China and other key markets, strengthening its position ahead of Visit Malaysia 2026. 

Shanghai Pudong International Airport recorded the second-largest improvement, rising five places to fifth from 10th after passenger traffic grew 10.7 per cent, supported by China's easing of visa policies, expanded international connectivity and a rebound in overseas travel. 

The 2026 ACI World Airport Traffic Dataset showed global passenger traffic reached 9.8 billion in 2025, up 3.7 per cent from 2024 and 6.5 per cent above pre-pandemic 2019 levels. 

The dataset, covering 2,817 airports across more than 180 countries and territories, showed the world's 20 busiest airports handled 1.59 billion passengers, accounting for 16 per cent of global traffic. Airports in the Asia-Pacific region recorded the biggest shifts in the rankings, driven by infrastructure expansion, improved connectivity and strong tourism demand.

ACI World director general Justin Erbacci said global air travel is approaching a historic milestone, but record demand is also exposing growing pressures on capacity. 

"The planning and investment decisions made today will determine whether aviation can meet the demands of the next generation of travellers," he said. 

Global air cargo volumes rose 3.3 per cent to more than 131 million metric tonnes in 2025, exceeding 2019 levels by 7.4 per cent, as e-commerce growth and supply chain reconfiguration continued to support demand for air freight. 

The world's top 20 cargo airports handled 53.1 million metric tonnes, or nearly 41 per cent of global cargo volumes, up 2.4 per cent from 2024. 

Aircraft movements worldwide increased 2.0 per cent to more than 103.1 million in 2025, returning to around pre-pandemic levels. The top 20 airports recorded 11.3 million aircraft movements, representing 11 per cent of the global total, up 2.5 per cent from 2024 and 2.8 per cent above 2019 levels.

-nst online.

Tourism Malaysia diversifies markets amid aviation disruption

 

Tourism Malaysia is strengthening its focus on resilient source markets and expanding air connectivity as part of a broader strategy to diversify visitor arrivals under the extended Visit Malaysia campaign, which now runs through 2027, amid geopolitical tensions and aviation disruptions affecting travel from parts of the Middle East. 

Tourism Malaysia director-general Mohd Amirul Rizal Abdul Rahim said the impact of ongoing conflict in West Asia has been felt mainly through reduced air connectivity, route adjustments and operational challenges rather than weakening demand for Malaysia as a destination.  

While the Middle East remains one of Malaysia’s highest-yield source markets, particularly for premium leisure travel, family holidays, medical tourism and long-stay visitors, arrivals from West Asia fell 27.2 per cent year on year in the first quarter of 2026, largely due to airspace restrictions, flight rerouting and reduced airline capacity. 

“Middle Eastern travellers continue to show strong interest in Malaysia, but with evolving travel patterns,” said Mohd Amirul. 

He noted that travellers from the region are increasingly booking closer to departure, seeking greater flexibility and prioritising destinations that offer safety, value, wellness experiences and family-friendly attractions. 

Geopolitical uncertainty is also affecting longhaul travel demand. According to Tourism Malaysia, bookings for travel to Malaysia between July and October 2026 are down by at least 10 per cent compared with the same period last year, while airline seat capacity in April 2026 was around five per cent lower than originally scheduled following adjustments by carriers affected by the Middle East conflict. 

Despite these challenges, several longhaul markets continued to record growth. In 1Q2026, arrivals from Europe increased 9.2 per cent year on year, while Oceania and the Americas grew 10.9 per cent and 8.2 per cent respectively. Central Asian markets, including Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan, also posted strong gains, supported by improved air connectivity. 

To build on this momentum, Tourism Malaysia is expanding joint campaigns with airlines, online travel platforms and trade partners across South-east Asia, while strengthening cross-border tourism initiatives with neighbouring countries. 

In India, efforts are focused on MICE, destination weddings and experiential travel. The tourism board is also targeting secondary cities through roadshows, trade partnerships and joint marketing initiatives. 

“With rising disposable incomes, improved air connectivity and growing international travel aspirations, secondary cities represent significant untapped potential for Malaysia,” stated Mohd Amirul. 

Air connectivity remains central to Tourism Malaysia’s growth strategy. While Malaysia currently has more than 200 weekly flights from India, the tourism board believes additional services from Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities will be needed to sustain growth and improve access to emerging outbound markets. 

New international routes are also expected to support these efforts. 

Mohd Amirul described Lufthansa’s Frankfurt-Kuala Lumpur service, due to launch in October, as significant because it restores direct air links between Germany and Malaysia while improving access to Lufthansa’s wider European and transatlantic network. 

Meanwhile, Air Algérie’s new service is expected to improve Malaysia’s accessibility and visibility across North Africa, an emerging source market where visitor arrivals are already increasing. 

“Expanding direct connectivity through new gateways is essential to sustain arrivals and strengthen Malaysia’s competitiveness,” concluded Mohd Amirul.

-TTG Asia.

74.7 juta pelawat domestik dorong pertumbuhan pelancongan pada suku pertama

 

KUALA LUMPUR: Sektor pelancongan domestik Malaysia terus mengekalkan momentum pertumbuhan pada suku pertama 2026 dengan jumlah pelawat domestik merekodkan 74.7 juta orang, meningkat 7.2 peratus tahun ke tahun, menurut Jabatan Perangkaan Malaysia (DOSM). 

Prestasi itu turut menyokong kepada pertumbuhan 0.9 peratus suku ke suku berbanding suku keempat 2025, mencerminkan kestabilan yang berterusan dalam permintaan perjalanan domestik. 

Pertumbuhan itu didorong oleh perjalanan semasa musim perayaan dan cuti umum sepanjang suku itu, khususnya Tahun Baharu Cina dan Aidilfitri, yang lazimnya merangsang aktiviti pelancongan domestik termasuk aktiviti mengunjungi saudara-mara serta percutian keluarga. 

Tempoh perayaan itu menyumbang kepada peningkatan pergerakan pelawat serta pengukuhan aktiviti pelancongan di seluruh negara.

"Perbelanjaan pelancongan domestik merekodkan RM34.0 bilion dengan pertumbuhan tahun ke tahun sebanyak 15.8 peratus, menunjukkan bukan hanya disumbangkan oleh peningkatan aktiviti perjalanan malahan pertambahan purata perbelanjaan setiap pelawat. 

"Secara suku ke suku, jumlah perbelanjaan meningkat 4.5 peratus, memberi petunjuk daya tahan berterusan dalam aktiviti ekonomi berkaitan pelancongan," jelas Ketua Perangkawan Malaysia, Datuk Seri Dr Mohd Uzir Mahidin dalam satu kenyataan.

DOSM berkata, prestasi positif itu turut disokong oleh pertumbuhan petunjuk utama, antaranya trafik lebuh raya yang meningkat 1.0 peratus, jualan runcit bahan api meningkat 8.0 peratus dan ketibaan penumpang udara domestik bertambah 9.6 peratus tahun ke tahun, mencerminkan peningkatan mobiliti serta permintaan perjalanan domestik. 

Sektor penginapan turut menunjukkan prestasi yang memberangsangkan apabila hasil sektor itu meningkat sebanyak 15.4 peratus, sejajar dengan peningkatan permintaan pelancongan. 

Kadar penghunian hotel bertaraf empat bintang dan tiga bintang masing-masing meningkat kepada 62.9 peratus (suku pertama 2025: 62.4 peratus) dan 70.4 peratus (suku pertama 2025: 69.3 peratus), mencerminkan kecenderungan yang semakin meningkat dalam kalangan pelancong terhadap pilihan penginapan bagi kategori pertengahan. 

Mengikut lokasi, kadar penghunian hotel di kawasan bandar meningkat kepada 64.1 peratus (suku pertama 2025: 61.8 peratus), manakala kawasan pesisir pantai merekodkan kadar penghunian sebanyak 59.9 peratus (suku pertama 2025: 59.3 peratus). 

Prestasi itu menunjukkan permintaan yang berterusan dan seimbang merentasi destinasi pelancongan utama negara. 

Secara keseluruhannya, pelancongan domestik kekal sebagai penyumbang penting kepada ekonomi Malaysia, disokong oleh peningkatan jumlah pelawat, perbelanjaan pelancongan serta aktiviti perjalanan sepanjang suku itu.

-berita harian online.

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.

PATA launches upgraded PATAmPOWER tourism data platform

 

PATA has introduced an upgraded version of its PATAmPOWER platform, expanding the tourism data tool’s functionality, coverage and user experience for industry stakeholders across Asia-Pacific. 

The enhanced platform was unveiled on May 13 during the PATA Annual Summit 2026 in South Korea.

PATAmPOWER consolidates tourism-related datasets, including visitor arrivals, aviation, expenditure and forecast information, into a single dashboard designed to support data-driven planning and decision-making across the travel sector. 

The updated version features a redesigned interface, improved dashboard functionality and expanded filtering, visualisation and export capabilities intended to streamline navigation and analysis. 

The platform is designed for use by governments, destination management organisations, national tourism organisations, aviation and hospitality companies, as well as researchers and analysts. Available datasets include monthly international visitor arrivals across Asia-Pacific destinations, annual visitor profiles, average visitor expenditure, inbound flight frequencies, seat capacity projections and tourism forecasts by origin market. 

PATA said the platform draws on data provided through collaborations with official government tourism authorities and aviation data company OAG, which serves as one of the association’s official data providers. 

Access to PATAmPOWER is available through PATA InfoHub accounts, with varying levels of member access depending on membership tier. Selected datasets may also be made available publicly upon request. 

“This upgraded version of the PATAmPOWER platform has been redesigned with our users in mind. The platform is now easier to navigate, which naturally leads to more instantaneous access to the insights needed for decision makers,” said Noor Ahmad Hamid, CEO of PATA. “As a trusted tool for our members over the years, we look forward to continuing to support them with an improved experience through this refined edition of PATAmPOWER.”

-TTG Asia.

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.

Muslim travel growth driven by inclusive experiences

 

New research from Mastercard and CrescentRating highlights continued growth in Muslim travel, alongside changing expectations around inclusivity, safety and purpose-led experiences. 

The reports, Halal Travel Trends 2026 and Muslim Women in Travel 2026, estimate international Muslim arrivals reached 186 million in 2025 and are projected to grow to 245 million by 2030. Muslim women accounted for 90 million arrivals in 2025, representing 48 per cent of the total, up from 45 per cent in 2019.

The findings point to a shift beyond basic requirements such as halal food and prayer facilities, with travellers placing increasing emphasis on safety, trust and digital access when planning trips. 

Asia remains central to this growth. The region attracted nearly 120 million Muslim visitors in 2024, accounting for 65 per cent of global arrivals. Within this, South-east Asia is well positioned, with destinations such as Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore and Brunei identified as preferred markets, particularly among Muslim women travellers. 

The reports highlight the growing influence of Muslim women in shaping travel decisions across segments including family holidays, solo trips and group travel. Safety and comfort were cited as key considerations by 60 per cent of respondents, followed by the availability of Muslim-friendly services. 

Digital platforms are also playing a larger role, with 68 per cent of respondents indicating that social media influences their travel choices. AI tools are increasingly used for trip planning, including identifying halal dining options and assessing destination suitability. 

A central theme across both reports is the RIDA framework, which outlines four areas for destinations to address: responsible tourism, immersive experiences, digital capability and assurance. The approach is intended to help tourism stakeholders better meet evolving traveller expectations. 

“Muslim travel is entering a more sophisticated phase, where confidence, inclusion and purpose are becoming as important as access and convenience,” said Aisha Islam, senior vice president, customer solutions centre, South-east Asia at Mastercard. “Through the RIDA framework, destinations and businesses have a practical way to think about the full traveller journey from trusted digital information and secure payments to meaningful experiences that respect faith, culture, safety and personal values.” 

“For destinations, the opportunity is to move from availability to assurance,” said Raudha Zaini, director of operations, CrescentRating. “Muslim travellers are looking for experiences that are meaningful, inclusive and easy to trust. The destinations that clearly communicate their readiness and deliver consistently across the journey will be best positioned to earn long-term loyalty.”

-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.

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.

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.

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.

Global tourism hit new record level in 2025: UN Tourism

 

MADRID: Global tourism hit a new record level in 2025 with 1.52 billion international tourist arrivals recorded worldwide, driven by strong increases in Asia and Africa, UN Tourism said Tuesday. 

"Demand for travel remained high throughout 2025, despite high inflation in tourism services and uncertainty from geopolitical tensions," the secretary general of the Madrid-based body, Shaikha Alnuwais, said in a statement. 

"We expect this positive trend to continue into 2026 as the global economy is expected to remain steady and destinations still lagging behind pre-pandemic levels fully recover." 

The number of international tourist arrivals last year was four per cent higher than the 1.4 billion recorded in 2024, reaching its highest level in the post-pandemic era and a new record, UN Tourism said. 

Africa saw an eight per cent rise in arrivals in 2025 to 81 million, with Morocco and Tunisia posting particularly strong results. 

International arrivals grew by six per cent in Asia and Pacific to reach 331 million in 2025, some 91 per cent of pre-pandemic levels.

Europe, the world's most popular destination region, recorded 793 million international arrivals in 2025, a four per cent increase over the previous year and six per cent above 2019, the year before the pandemic paralysed travel.

-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.

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.