Latest news with #CabinetCommitteeonTourismandCulture
The Star
4 days ago
- Business
- The Star
Malaysia to intensify promotion of hidden gems for Visit Malaysia 2026
LONDON: Efforts will be made to intensify the promotion of Malaysia's hidden gems ahead of Visit Malaysia 2026, says Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi. The Deputy Prime Minister said that feedback from London's tourism industry players revealed Malaysia has not fully capitalised on promoting its hidden attractions to boost tourist arrivals. "Industry players felt there is untapped potential in tourism products like Orang-utans, beaches, nature, and attractions in Sabah and Sarawak. Our promotions just skim the surface and lack depth. "This situation might be due to a lack of funds for such promotions, but I will raise this with the Cabinet Committee on Tourism and Culture, which I chair," he told reporters after a dialogue with Britain's tourism industry and launching Visit Malaysia 2026 in London on Tuesday (June 3). Ahmad Zahid said there is still time to adjust tourism marketing and promotions, as Visit Malaysia 2026 is about seven months away. "We will discuss the matter further in the committee," he added. He mentioned the government would also consider offering incentives for travellers using Malaysia-based airlines to stop over in the country, following industry feedback. "I have agreed to discuss this with the Tourism and Culture Ministry and, if necessary, the same cabinet committee. It is not impossible to realise this matter," he said.
The Star
4 days ago
- Business
- The Star
500,000 UK tourist target for Visit Malaysia 2026, says Zahid
LONDON: Malaysia aims to attract over 500,000 tourists from the United Kingdom for Visit Malaysia 2026, says Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi. The Deputy Prime Minister highlighted that the UK remains one of Malaysia's strongest European markets. "In 2024 alone, 390,035 UK travellers visited Malaysia, contributing over RM2.5bil in visitor receipts. "We are truly grateful for this continued support. I am confident we will surpass 500,000 UK arrivals next year," he said during his speech launching Visit Malaysia 2026 in the UK on Tuesday (June 3). Ahmad Zahid emphasised the significance of launching the campaign in London, a hub of culture, trade, and travel. "Today, we invite the world, starting in the UK, to rediscover Malaysia in all its colour, charm, and diversity. Tourism is more than economic activity. It brings people together, creates memories, and builds understanding," he said. He noted Malaysia's tourism sector has shown extraordinary resilience and growth. "In 2024, we welcomed 38 million international visitors, a 31.1% increase from the previous year, and 8.3% higher than pre-pandemic levels in 2019. Visitor receipts reached RM106.78bil, a remarkable 43.7% growth year-on-year," he said. Between January and April, Malaysia recorded 13.4 million international arrivals, marking a 21% increase compared to the same period last year. "Recently, when I chaired the Cabinet Committee on Tourism and Culture, we approved 103 new international routes, 29 additional frequencies, and 5 charter flights. "These routes are gateways to opportunity for travellers, operators, and investors alike," he said. Visit Malaysia 2026 is not just another promotional campaign, Ahmad Zahid said. "It is a national agenda to position tourism at the heart of Malaysia's economic and cultural growth," he said. Ahmad Zahid added that there are five key pillars at the heart of Visit Malaysia 2026: sustainability, culture and heritage, adventure and nature, digital innovation, and global connectivity. "These pillars reflect the evolving values of today's travellers, particularly from markets like the UK. Travellers seek experiences that are real, enriching, and responsible," he said. Malaysia will roll out flagship programmes, such as the Malaysia Mega Sale and the World Tourism Day & Conference, to amplify its vibrancy globally. Visitors will discover a country rich in contrast and character, he said. "From the dazzling skyline of Kuala Lumpur to UNESCO-listed heritage towns, pristine beaches to ancient rainforests, and bustling markets to serene retreats," he said. Visit Malaysia 2026 is more than a campaign to boost tourist arrivals, Ahmad Zahid said. "It's a call to connect, rediscover, and build stories that stay with us. The benefits of travel should be felt by visitors and the communities that make Malaysia special," he added. The event is part of the Deputy Prime Minister's four-day working visit to Britain, aimed at strengthening bilateral ties.
The Sun
22-05-2025
- Business
- The Sun
VM2026: 103 new flight routes approved to boost global connectivity
PUTRAJAYA: A total of 103 new flight routes, 29 increased flight frequencies and five chartered flights have been approved from various major countries in an effort to boost global connectivity in preparation for Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026). Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said the matter was disclosed during the meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Tourism and Culture (JKPK), which he chaired here today. The JKPK chairman said the meeting viewed that a comprehensive campaign approach up to the international level must be implemented with the full support of the government in preparation for VM2026. Among the outlined strategies include creating demand by empowering the Malaysia Truly Asia and Cuti-Cuti Malaysia brands, joint promotions with airlines and tour operators, as well as market segmentation approaches to attract high-profile visitors from around the world. 'The government is committed to driving the tourism sector as a key catalyst for the country's economic growth in line with the aspirations of Malaysia MADANI, particularly the thrust of Rebuilding the Economy. 'This sector not only contributes to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) but also creates job opportunities and enhances the country's competitiveness in the global market,' Ahmad Zahid said in a statement today. He said the meeting was informed of seven iconic programmes that will be organised as major attractions for VM2026, namely the Malaysia Mega Sale, Malaysia Cultural Festival, Global Meet, World Tourism Day & Conference, Official Launch of VM2026, VM2026 Year-End Sale, and the VM2026 Countdown Celebration. In addition, he said the meeting was also briefed on the Sustainable Tourism Programme through the Greening Protocol Initiative. 'Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) and the Selangor government will spearhead the implementation of the Greening Protocol, which encompasses low-carbon technology, green mobility, and the empowerment of urban green spaces. This aligns with the goal of positioning Malaysia as a world-class sustainable tourism destination,' he said. To ensure the sector remains competitive, Ahmad Zahid urged all ministries and agencies to join forces with the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC) in driving the sector as a national agenda. 'The success of the nation's tourism can only be achieved through coordinated policies and collective, inclusive implementation,' he said. Ahmad Zahid also called on all frontliners, especially at international entry points, to demonstrate friendliness and professionalism as the country's mini ambassadors in welcoming tourists. 'I am confident that with the joint commitment of all parties, we can make Malaysia a top global tourism destination by VM2026,' he said.
The Sun
22-05-2025
- Business
- The Sun
103 new flight routes approved to boost global connectivity
PUTRAJAYA: A total of 103 new flight routes, 29 increased flight frequencies and five chartered flights have been approved from various major countries in an effort to boost global connectivity in preparation for Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026). Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said the matter was disclosed during the meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Tourism and Culture (JKPK), which he chaired here today. The JKPK chairman said the meeting viewed that a comprehensive campaign approach up to the international level must be implemented with the full support of the government in preparation for VM2026. Among the outlined strategies include creating demand by empowering the Malaysia Truly Asia and Cuti-Cuti Malaysia brands, joint promotions with airlines and tour operators, as well as market segmentation approaches to attract high-profile visitors from around the world. 'The government is committed to driving the tourism sector as a key catalyst for the country's economic growth in line with the aspirations of Malaysia MADANI, particularly the thrust of Rebuilding the Economy. 'This sector not only contributes to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) but also creates job opportunities and enhances the country's competitiveness in the global market,' Ahmad Zahid said in a statement today. He said the meeting was informed of seven iconic programmes that will be organised as major attractions for VM2026, namely the Malaysia Mega Sale, Malaysia Cultural Festival, Global Meet, World Tourism Day & Conference, Official Launch of VM2026, VM2026 Year-End Sale, and the VM2026 Countdown Celebration. In addition, he said the meeting was also briefed on the Sustainable Tourism Programme through the Greening Protocol Initiative. 'Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) and the Selangor government will spearhead the implementation of the Greening Protocol, which encompasses low-carbon technology, green mobility, and the empowerment of urban green spaces. This aligns with the goal of positioning Malaysia as a world-class sustainable tourism destination,' he said. To ensure the sector remains competitive, Ahmad Zahid urged all ministries and agencies to join forces with the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC) in driving the sector as a national agenda. 'The success of the nation's tourism can only be achieved through coordinated policies and collective, inclusive implementation,' he said. Ahmad Zahid also called on all frontliners, especially at international entry points, to demonstrate friendliness and professionalism as the country's mini ambassadors in welcoming tourists. 'I am confident that with the joint commitment of all parties, we can make Malaysia a top global tourism destination by VM2026,' he said.
Barnama
22-05-2025
- Business
- Barnama
VM2026: 103 New Flight Routes Approved To Boost Global Connectivity
GENERAL PUTRAJAYA, May 22 (Bernama) -- A total of 103 new flight routes, 29 increased flight frequencies and five chartered flights have been approved from various major countries in an effort to boost global connectivity in preparation for Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026). Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said the matter was disclosed during the meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Tourism and Culture (JKPK), which he chaired here today.. The JKPK chairman said the meeting viewed that a comprehensive campaign approach up to the international level must be implemented with the full support of the government in preparation for VM2026. Among the outlined strategies include creating demand by empowering the Malaysia Truly Asia and Cuti-Cuti Malaysia brands, joint promotions with airlines and tour operators, as well as market segmentation approaches to attract high-profile visitors from around the world. 'The government is committed to driving the tourism sector as a key catalyst for the country's economic growth in line with the aspirations of Malaysia MADANI, particularly the thrust of Rebuilding the Economy. 'This sector not only contributes to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) but also creates job opportunities and enhances the country's competitiveness in the global market,' Ahmad Zahid said in a statement today. He said the meeting was informed of seven iconic programmes that will be organised as major attractions for VM2026, namely the Malaysia Mega Sale, Malaysia Cultural Festival, Global Meet, World Tourism Day & Conference, Official Launch of VM2026, VM2026 Year-End Sale, and the VM2026 Countdown Celebration. In addition, he said the meeting was also briefed on the Sustainable Tourism Programme through the Greening Protocol Initiative. 'Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) and the Selangor government will spearhead the implementation of the Greening Protocol, which encompasses low-carbon technology, green mobility, and the empowerment of urban green spaces. This aligns with the goal of positioning Malaysia as a world-class sustainable tourism destination,' he said.
