Tourism Malaysia Charts Bold Path Towards Visit Malaysia 2026
Malaysia is preparing for a milestone moment in its tourism journey: Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026). To set the wheels in motion, Tourism Malaysia hosted a three-day strategic engagement session in Kuala Lumpur from 28th to 30th September 2025.
This gathering brought together overseas directors from 29 full-fledged international offices and four marketing representative offices, alongside airline partners and aviation stakeholders. The agenda was to sharpen strategies, unify voices, and ensure Malaysia is ready to welcome the world in 2026 with open arms.
A Minister’s Vision for Global Impact
The highlight of the session was a special address by YB Dato Sri Tiong King Sing, Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture. His call was clear: Malaysia must not only prepare but stand out. He outlined expectations for all parties to push Malaysia’s tourism story to greater heights, ensuring the country becomes a destination that travellers from every corner of the globe aspire to experience.
His vision underscored the urgency of action. VM2026 is not just about numbers but also about strengthening Malaysia’s cultural influence, forging international ties, and positioning the nation as a premier global destination.
United Efforts Across Key Agencies
Collaboration was a recurring theme throughout the engagement. Tourism Malaysia organised town hall sessions with a host of important partners, including the Malaysia Convention & Exhibition Bureau (MyCEB), Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H), the Policy Division (Culture) of MOTAC, and the National Film Development Corporation Malaysia (FINAS).
These sessions allowed for deeper dialogue on how each division can work more closely together, paving the way for a more integrated and dynamic tourism promotion strategy. By combining resources and expertise, Malaysia is looking to deliver campaigns that speak louder and travel further.
Strengthening the Aviation Link
Air connectivity plays a vital role in tourism, and this was addressed in an exclusive breakout session with airline partners. The discussions involved three homegrown carriers and no fewer than 27 international aviation players.
This business-to-business engagement provided a platform for overseas directors to meet directly with airline representatives, exploring practical ways to expand route networks and improve accessibility. After all, a seamless journey is the first step to an unforgettable holiday.
Signs of Recovery and Renewed Optimism
Tourism Malaysia’s Director General, Datuk Manoharan Periasamy, spoke with optimism about the recovery trajectory. Visitor arrivals have bounced back across most global regions, with only West Asia, Northern Africa, Southern Africa, and Western Africa yet to reach pre-pandemic levels.
He stressed that strong airline partnerships are key to sustaining this recovery. More flights mean better access, and better access means more opportunities for travellers to rediscover Malaysia’s beaches, rainforests, cities, and cultural treasures.
Building Momentum Towards VM2026
The engagement session was more than just a meeting. It was a blueprint for action. The emphasis on collaboration, innovation, and long-term planning reflects Malaysia’s determination to make VM2026 an event of international significance.
By engaging with global offices, agencies, and airlines, Malaysia is ensuring its tourism sector is not only ready for the influx of visitors but also well-positioned to tell its story with renewed energy.
As Malaysia looks ahead to 2026, the message is clear: the country is ready to welcome the world with its unique mix of heritage, modernity, and natural wonders. With robust strategies in place, VM2026 is set to be more than a campaign. It will be a celebration of Malaysia’s place on the world stage.
Event: Session With YB Minister In Conjunction With Tourism Malaysia Overseas Directors’ Meeting 2025
Venue: World Trade Centre, Kuala Lumpur
Date: 30th Sept 2025
Time: 8am
