The Great Outdoor Expo 2025: A Grand Celebration of Malaysia’s Adventure, Culture and Community Spirit
Star Media Group and Tourism Malaysia join forces to reignite Malaysians’ passion for nature, eco-tourism, and cultural discovery ahead of Visit Malaysia 2026.
The Malaysian Agro Exposition Park (MAEPS) Serdang buzzed with excitement on 4th October 2025 as The Great Outdoor Expo 2025 officially opened its doors. Organised by Star Media Group (SMG) in collaboration with Tourism Malaysia, the three-day event drew thousands of visitors eager to immerse themselves in a world of outdoor adventure, eco-friendly innovations, and cultural discovery.
Held alongside the lively Star Karnival Cuti-Cuti Malaysia (SKCCM), the Expo forms part of a national initiative to strengthen domestic tourism and showcase Malaysia’s diverse natural and cultural heritage in the lead-up to Visit Malaysia 2026.
The event’s dual platforms underlined the importance of collaboration between the public and private sectors in positioning Malaysia as a leading destination for adventure and eco-tourism, while fostering a deeper appreciation for the country’s environment, traditions, and communities.
Adventure in Every Corner
Visitors to The Great Outdoor Expo 2025 were greeted by a spectacular lineup of interactive attractions and showcases. From VR adventure simulators to hands-on climbing walls and camping demonstrations, the event offered something for everyone: families, thrill-seekers, and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
With over 200 booths and more than 100 exhibitors, the Expo became Malaysia’s largest outdoor recreation showcase to date. Exhibitors featured cutting-edge outdoor equipment, glamping concepts, sustainable travel solutions, and eco-friendly innovations designed to appeal to a new generation of travellers who value both comfort and conservation.
Among the highlights were the Toyota 4×4 Adventure Zone, thrilling fishing showcases by OAG Worldwide, and fun-filled experiences from Bangi Wonderland. Other partners, such as 10Camp Enterprise, AZ Eco Green, and Evo Rise, introduced innovative camping gear and eco-products that reflected Malaysia’s growing eco-conscious travel trend.
“This gathering is a reminder of something essential: the human need to reconnect with the outdoors, with one another, and with the natural world that sustains us,” said Mr Chan Seng Fatt, Group Chief Executive Officer of Star Media Group. “The Great Outdoor Expo 2025 is more than an exhibition; it is a celebration of adventure, discovery, and the beauty of our environment.”
A Feast of Culture, Cuisine, and Travel Inspirations
The Star Karnival Cuti-Cuti Malaysia, themed “Explore. Experience. Excite.” offered a lively immersion into Malaysia’s cultural heritage, complete with traditional music, colourful performances, and an irresistible array of local dishes.
Visitors were treated to heritage food, festive delicacies, and street favourites that truly showcased Malaysia’s culinary diversity. The food stalls were abuzz with the aroma of authentic local flavours, from nasi kerabu and satay to kuih-muih, creating a vibrant, family-friendly atmosphere that celebrated Malaysia’s multicultural identity.
Travel enthusiasts also flocked to booths offering exclusive domestic travel deals, from scenic island retreats and wellness escapes to heritage trails and eco-resorts. These promotions encouraged Malaysians to rediscover their home country, exploring destinations both well-known and hidden.
Tourism as a Catalyst for Growth
In his officiating speech, Datuk Manoharan Periasamy, Director-General of Tourism Malaysia, highlighted the role of tourism as a pillar of national pride and economic growth.
“Tourism is an important industry for our country, a source of livelihoods and a foundation for national pride. From golden beaches and lush rainforests to majestic mountains and colourful traditions, Malaysia is truly blessed,” he said.
He also shared encouraging statistics from the Department of Statistics Malaysia, revealing that domestic tourism recorded over 260 million visitors in 2024, marking a 21.7% increase compared to 2023. Domestic tourism expenditure also rose by 25.7%, reaching RM106.7 billion.
“These achievements represent more than numbers,” he added. “They represent jobs created in kampungs and cities, opportunities for small businesses and artisans, and renewed pride in Malaysia’s landscapes and heritage.”
Datuk Manoharan also stressed the country’s commitment to sustainable and responsible tourism under the National Tourism Policy 2020–2030, which focuses on eco-tourism, sustainability, and attracting high-yield travellers who stay longer, spend more, and connect deeply with local communities.
Collaboration for a Greener, More Connected Malaysia
The Great Outdoor Expo 2025 was a shining example of effective collaboration. Supported by sponsors and partners such as UMW Toyota Motor, OAG Worldwide, Bangi Wonderland, 10Camp Enterprise, AZ Eco Green, Evo Rise, KWSP, and the MareCet Research Organisation, the event demonstrated how innovation and teamwork can elevate Malaysia’s tourism landscape.
Mr Chan expressed deep appreciation for these partnerships, noting that their involvement transformed the Expo into more than just a trade event. Instead, it became a collaborative objective to promote healthier lifestyles, appreciation for nature, and sustainable tourism.
“At Star Media Group, we believe in creating meaningful experiences that connect people,” he said. “This platform encourages us to value our environment, embrace healthier living, and celebrate the balance that nature brings to our daily lives.”
Inspiring Everyday Ambassadors of Malaysia
Datuk Manoharan issued a stirring call to all Malaysians: “Let us ‘Explore. Experience. Excite. Together.’ This is not just a slogan, but a national movement. I encourage everyone to be everyday ambassadors of Malaysia; to share our beauty, warmth, and stories with the world.”
His words resonated deeply with attendees, reminding them that the success of Visit Malaysia 2026 depends on collective pride and participation. The Great Outdoor Expo 2025 was not merely a weekend event. It was the start of a movement inspiring Malaysians to appreciate, preserve, and promote their country.
The Journey Continues Across Malaysia
Following its success in Serdang, the Star Karnival Cuti-Cuti Malaysia will travel across the country to bring its spirit of exploration and celebration to other states. Upcoming stops include:
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Each stop promises a unique showcase of local culture, food, and adventure experiences, ensuring that the excitement of the Expo continues to spread across Malaysia.
Looking Ahead to Visit Malaysia 2026
The Great Outdoor Expo 2025 has set the tone for what lies ahead: a future where Malaysians embrace outdoor living, sustainable travel, and cultural pride. With Tourism Malaysia and Star Media Group leading the way, the journey towards Visit Malaysia 2026 is off to an inspiring start.
Event: The Great Outdoor Expo 2025
Venue: The Malaysian Agro Exposition Park (MAEPS) Serdang
Date: 3rd – 5th Oct, 2025
Time: 10am – 9pm
