Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026) officially kicked off on 1 January at Kuala Lumpur International Airport, alongside welcome ceremonies at 55 key entry points across its 13 states, as the country gears up for an ambitious campaign with a strong focus on high-yield, longer stays and sustainable tourism.
“VM2026 is not merely a tourism campaign; it is a nationwide movement that reflects our unity, harmony, warmth, and cultural diversity,” emphasised YB Dato Sri Tiong King Sing, Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture.
First groups of travellers arriving at selected locations on New Year’s day were greeted with Malaysian cultural performances, street buskers and contemporary showcases, as well as various freebies ranging from vouchers, food and beverage products to souvenirs and attraction discounts.
Also in town for the campaign was Oscar-winning Ipoh-born actress Tan Sri Michelle Yeoh. The star described Malaysia as one of “breathtaking beauty, rich heritage, and relentless innovation", while at the launch of ‘I LITE U’ festival at Bukit Bintang, which was inaugurated by Malaysia’s Prime Minister, YAB Dato' Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
The lights festival across the capital serves as a prelude to a series of over 300 cultural and tourism initiatives pegged for 2026. These include Chinese New Year, Aidilfitri, Deepavali, Christmas, as well as iconic cultural celebrations such as the Tadau Kaamatan and Gawai Dayak festivals.
Through the VM2026 campaign, Malaysia aims to attract 43 million international visitors in 2026, riding on the positive momentum of 38.3 million international visitors from January to November 2025.