SIBU: The Visit Malaysia Year 2026 (VM2026) is expected to serve as a catalyst for local economic growth, particularly in Sarawak and Sibu, provided promotional efforts are carried out in an integrated manner by all parties.
Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister, Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing, said cooperation involving communities, traders, government agencies, and tourists is essential to ensure the benefits of VM2026 are widely shared.
“This is a very good opportunity to stimulate local economic growth and develop the tourism industry so that businesses, service providers, and local residents can all benefit.
“To make this a reality, each of us must play our role with full commitment, moving in unison and working hand in hand,” he said when speaking at the Chinese New Year Dinner organised by the United Chinese Association (UCA) Sibu held at Hotel Kingwood on Friday night.
Tiong, who is also Dudong state assemblyman, said that the public must maintain professionalism and extend friendly hospitality to visitors, while upholding values such as honesty, mutual assistance, and social responsibility to strengthen the nation’s image.
He also expressed confidence that continued collaboration among all parties could position Sibu as a preferred tourism destination, while contributing to the development of a more united, prosperous, and harmonious town.
Meanwhile, Tiong, who is also Bintulu Member of Parliament, emphasised the role of community organisations, including Chinese associations, in strengthening unity through inter-organisational cooperation, youth and women empowerment, and leadership continuity for sustainable long-term development.
At the event, he also announced an allocation of RM100,000 to the UCA Sibu to support community programmes, particularly in conjunction with VM2026.
