“Visit Malaysia Year 2026”: A global invitation for unforgettable experiences
Datuk Manoharan Periasamy, Director General of Tourism Malaysia, spoke with ITB Berlin News about the “Visit Malaysia Year 2026” (VM2026) campaign and how travellers are being inspired to experience longer and more meaningful stays
Malaysia is generating excitement for a transformative year as a dynamic and sustainable tourism hub ready to welcome visitors worldwide.
What are the main aims of the “Visit Malaysia Year 2026” campaign officially launched in January?
The Visit Malaysia Year 2026 campaign marks the sixth edition since it was first introduced in 1990. A key focus of the campaign is to increase the overall tourist arrivals and tourist receipts. We are also aiming to increase our flight frequency.
Additionally, the campaign will position the country as an Affordable Luxury Destination, catering to tourists seeking high-end experiences at accessible price points. This strategy is designed to attract discerning travellers. And finally, the campaign will also feature a range of initiatives to promote Malaysia’s rich cultural heritage and iconic tourist attractions, ensuring that the country’s uniqueness is showcased to the world. Through these efforts, Visit Malaysia Year 2026 will help establish Malaysia as a dynamic and sustainable tourism hub, ready to welcome travelers from all corners of the globe.
What is the significance of the VM2026 logo? How will it be used to create a “united front” in promoting tourism?
The official logo for Visit Malaysia 2026 showcases a design inspired by traditional Malaysian craft, batik patterns, and the hibiscus national flower. This logo symbolises Malaysia’s vibrant culture, natural beauty, and global appeal. It serves as a visual reminder of the country’s readiness to welcome tourists worldwide. The logo also decorates Malaysia Airlines, Batik Air, and AirAsia aircraft. This is the first time that these airlines have displayed the logo, symbolising a united front in promoting tourism and generating excitement for the transformative year ahead.
Can you tell us about your presence at ITB Berlin this year? What can visitors discover on your stand?
As every year, we are happy to welcome visitors to our booth with a large delegation from Malaysia, including around 40 sellers. Among them are some of the top tourism players in our country, including state representatives, destination management companies, hotels, and various tourism products. We are once again emphasing one of our strongest assets: nature and adventure.
Additionally, visitors can immerse themselves in Malaysia’s rich heritage as a local artisan showcases traditional and contemporary crafts of the indigenous people of the peninsula, including intricately woven mengkuang mats and bamboo baskets.
The Visit Malaysia Year 2026 campaign is promoting Malaysia as a sustainable destination. How is Malaysia demonstrating its commitment to wildlife conservation, and sustainable tourism?
- Sustainable Natural Resource Management – Malaysia is reducing tourism’s environmental impact by encouraging eco-friendly practices, such as electric vehicle usage, plastic waste reduction, and nature preservation.
- Promotion of Ecotourism – The country is emphasising nature-based tourism, from hiking trails and national parks to ethical wildlife experiences that protect natural habitats.
- Education and Awareness – Tourists and local communities are being educated on the importance of conservation through campaigns, on-site information, and educational programmes.
- Encouraging Local Community Involvement – Tourism initiatives are designed to benefit local communities by integrating local businesses, products, and cultural heritage into visitor experiences.
- Minimising Social Impact – By promoting off-season travel and diversifying tourist traffic, Malaysia is preventing overcrowding and safeguarding local communities’ way of life.
- Development of Eco-Friendly Infrastructure – Investments in responsible tourism infrastructure, efficient water management, and eco-friendly amenities are shaping a more sustainable tourism landscape.
- Government Support and Tourism Policies – By implementing laws that protect natural resources and offering incentives to encourage eco-friendly practices, the government can play a key role in sustainable tourism.
