Latest news with #VM2026
Focus Malaysia
6 hours ago
- Focus Malaysia
Mandatory seatbelt use in buses is paving way for safer VMY 2026 travels
BEGINNING July 2025, Malaysia will enforce mandatory seatbelt use for all passengers in buses—a decisive move signalling the government's commitment to road safety and the protection of lives. While the decision is a response to past tragic road accidents that shook public confidence, it also marks a proactive shift in national safety standards, especially in the lead-up to Visit Malaysia Year 2026 (VM2026). The campaign aims to attract 35.6 million international tourists and generate RM147.1 bil in tourism receipts. Ensuring safe and reliable transportation is essential to achieving these ambitious goals. Malaysia has witnessed a concerning trend of road accidents involving buses, particularly during peak travel periods. Investigations have revealed that many fatalities could have been prevented had passengers been secured with seatbelts. Passengers thrown from vehicles upon impact remain one of the primary causes of death. The new regulation will significantly reduce such risks and help align Malaysia's safety protocols with international standards observed in top tourist destinations. Road safety is not just a technical issue—it's central to tourism confidence. In the digital age, any incident can quickly go viral and shape global perceptions of a country. By reinforcing safety measures, Malaysia sends a clear message to travellers: your well-being is our top priority. This is particularly crucial for international visitors unfamiliar with local transportation practices, who often rely on buses to explore the country's natural wonders, cultural sites, and urban centres. This reform complements VM2026's broader objectives of sustainable and inclusive tourism. Families, senior citizens, and school groups—common bus passengers—require added assurance when travelling across diverse terrains from Penang to Sabah. The implementation of seatbelt rules will help ensure safe passage, creating a more enjoyable and secure journey for all demographics. Beyond personal safety, this step elevates Malaysia's standing in responsible tourism, echoing the campaign's core theme: offering memorable experiences in a safe and welcoming environment. (Image: The Star) Beyond regulatory mandates, true effectiveness lies in awareness and enforcement. The government should launch a robust public education campaign to familiarise passengers with the importance of seatbelt use, not as an inconvenience, but as a life-saving habit. Clear visual signage in buses, announcements before departure, and proactive involvement from bus operators will drive cultural change. Continuous training for drivers, routine safety checks, and transparent channels for passenger feedback will also reinforce confidence in Malaysia's transport system. Authorities should also enforce this policy consistently and fairly. Spot checks, penalties for non-compliance, and strict licensing conditions for bus operators will ensure long-term impact. Moreover, tourists often judge a country's professionalism by how it handles seemingly minor details, such as seatbelt availability and enforcement, which may appear small. However, they hold significant weight in shaping an international reputation. Malaysia has long prided itself on being 'Truly Asia'—a melting pot of cultures, landscapes, and flavours. But a truly world-class experience requires the integration of safety into every element of travel. Mandatory seatbelt use will elevate Malaysia's profile among global travellers who seek not only adventure but also assurance. As VM2026 draws near, measures like these are more than policies—they're strategic investments into the tourism industry's resilience and credibility. Safer roads mean fewer disruptions, fewer tragedies, and better reviews. The decision also benefits domestic tourism and long-distance commuters, demonstrating that government efforts are inclusive and benefit all strata of society. Malaysia is poised to make VM2026 a landmark celebration of culture, heritage, and natural beauty. But the journey must be as safe as the destination is spectacular. Mandatory seatbelts in buses are one step forward toward a tourism landscape where safety is standard, and every visitor feels protected, welcomed, and inspired. ‒ July 30, 2025 The author is a Research Fellow at the Ungku Aziz Centre for Development Studies (UAC), Universiti Malaya . The views expressed are solely of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Focus Malaysia. Main image : Malay Mail
The Star
15 hours ago
- Business
- The Star
Batik Air launches Subang-Bangkok route
KUALA LUMPUR: Batik Air is now offering direct services to Bangkok from Subang to reinforce the airline's commitment to developing Subang into a strategic travel hub for the Klang Valley and beyond. Officials welcomed the inaugural flight from Bangkok during a simple ceremony in Subang on Monday. Direct flights between Subang and Kuching were also launched on the same day. This is on top of Batik Air's flights to Penang, Kota Baru, Kota Kinabalu (BKI) and Tawau via BKI. In a statement, Batik Air chief executive officer Datuk Chandran Rama Muthy said the airline is proud to connect more cities through Subang, providing passengers with greater convenience and flexibility as an alternative to KL International Airport (KLIA). 'With these new routes, we are not only deepening our presence in Subang but also bringing travellers closer to the destinations they love – whether it's exploring Bangkok's vibrant streets or experiencing Kuching's rich cultural charm,' he said. Also at the event was director general of Tourism Malaysia Datuk Manoharan Periasamy, who said: 'We applaud Batik Air's commitment to expanding Malaysia's regional and domestic air connectivity. 'These new routes are timely as we gear up for Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026). 'Thailand remains one of our most important source markets, and enhanced accessibility will play a pivotal role in boosting visitor arrivals and supporting the growth of Malaysia's tourism industry.' With the launch of Bangkok and Kuching flights, Batik Air now operates five direct routes from Subang, giving travellers more options when planning their domestic and regional journeys. The airline said these services reflect the airline's vision to offer seamless connectivity, enhanced accessibility, and a more convenient travel experience across Malaysia and beyond. More information is available at
New Straits Times
2 days ago
- Business
- New Straits Times
Tourism agency association: Protests could tarnish Malaysia's image, impact Visit Malaysia year
KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysia Tourism Agency Association (Mata) has expressed its concern over the impact of street demonstrations, particularly in the lead-up to Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026), as they could threaten public security and tarnish the country's reputation as a safe tourism destination. It said that with Malaysia actively promoting VM2026 to attract millions of international visitors, such continued large-scale public demonstrations could hinder those efforts. "A tarnished national image can directly affect tourist arrivals and foreign investments. Demonstrations can affect business operations and employment opportunities, and increase the overall cost of living for the people. The people's peace and safety are priorities that cannot be compromised," it said in a statement today. Mata also warned that mobilising the people to take to the streets posed a security risk, including potential provocation, conflicts and disorders that could threaten public order. It also said that Malaysia, known as a destination for Islamic and nature-based tourism, would face huge challenges if street demonstrations continue and receive negative media exposure globally. Meanwhile, Mata president Datuk Sri Dr Mohd Khalid Harun said in the same statement that Malaysia is currently in a strong post-pandemic economic recovery phase. "Stability and peace are the foundation of progress in the tourism industry. Without safety guarantees, tourists will choose other destinations, which are more stable and safer," he said. He said that Mata recognises the people's right to voice their opinions, but stressed that every action must be carried out responsibly without compromising national harmony. "We must work together to maintain stability to ensure VM2026 is successful and the people's economy continues to grow," he said.
The Sun
2 days ago
- Business
- The Sun
Street protests risk Malaysia's tourism growth ahead of VM2026
KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysia Tourism Agency Association (MATA) has raised concerns over ongoing street protests, warning they could damage the country's reputation as a safe travel destination ahead of Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026). With Malaysia actively promoting the tourism campaign to attract international visitors, large-scale demonstrations risk undermining economic recovery and public security. 'A tarnished national image can directly affect tourist arrivals and foreign investments,' MATA stated. The association highlighted that protests disrupt business operations, reduce job opportunities, and increase living costs, stressing that public safety must remain a priority. MATA cautioned that mass mobilisations could escalate into conflicts, further destabilising public order. Malaysia, known for Islamic and nature-based tourism, faces significant challenges if negative global media coverage persists. Datuk Sri Dr Mohd Khalid Harun, MATA president, noted Malaysia's post-pandemic recovery hinges on stability. 'Tourists seek safe destinations. Without peace, they will choose alternatives,' he said. While acknowledging the right to protest, he urged responsible actions to safeguard national harmony. 'Collective efforts are vital to ensure VM2026's success and sustained economic growth,' he added. - Bernama
The Star
2 days ago
- Business
- The Star
Demonstrations tarnish country's image, threaten VM2026, tour operator group says
KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysia Tourism Agency Association (Mata) has expressed concern over the impact of street demonstrations, particularly in the lead-up to Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026), saying they threaten public security and tarnish the country's reputation as a safe tourism destination. It stressed that such continued large-scale public demonstrations could hinder efforts to promote VM2026 and attract millions of potential international visitors. "A tarnished national image can directly affect tourist arrivals and foreign investments. "Demonstrations can affect business operations and employment opportunities, and increase the overall cost of living for the people. The people's peace and safety are priorities that cannot be compromised," said its president Datuk Sri Dr Mohd Khalid Harun in a statement on Monday (July 28). Mata also warned that mobilising the people to take to the streets posed a security risk, including potential provocation, conflicts and disorders that could threaten public order. Mata also said that Malaysia, known as a destination for Islamic and nature-based tourism, would face huge challenges if street demonstrations continue and receive negative media exposure globally. Meanwhile, Mohd Khalid also reminded that Malaysia is currently in a strong post-pandemic economic recovery phase. "Stability and peace are the foundation of progress in the tourism industry. Without safety guarantees, tourists will choose other destinations, which are more stable and safer," he said. He emphasised that Mata recognises the people's right to voice their opinions, but stressed that every action must be carried out responsibly without compromising national harmony. "We must work together to maintain stability to ensure VM2026 is successful and the people's economy continues to grow," he said. - Bernama
