BINTULU: Global geopolitical uncertainties, particularly conflicts in West Asia involving Iran, have prompted the government to consider extending Visit Malaysia Year 2026 (VMY2026) to 2027.
Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister, Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing, said the proposed extension is crucial to sustain the momentum of the country’s tourism promotion efforts, while allowing all stakeholders more time to prepare thoroughly.
“This additional period will also provide opportunities for local communities, especially in rural areas, to jointly develop and promote community-based tourism products.
“Within these two years, we want villages such as Kampung Seberang Jaya and Kampung Nour Iman to step forward in identifying and showcasing their unique attractions to draw tourists,” he said.
He said this while speaking at the handover ceremony of the MADANI Adopted Village (KAM) Project for Kampung Nour Iman, Kuala Tatau, held in conjunction with the ‘MOTAC Bersama Komuniti @ Bintulu’ programme today (Apr 24).
According to him, villages like Kampung Seberang Jaya and Kampung Nour Iman have strong potential to be highlighted as community tourism destinations, with attractions such as mural art and local delicacies like prawn noodles capable of appealing to both domestic and international tourists.
At the same time, Tiong, who is also the Member of Parliament for Bintulu, stressed that promotional efforts must be carried out inclusively by involving other villages in the Tatau and Bintulu districts so that tourism benefits can be shared more broadly.
In a related development, he also encouraged longhouse communities to venture into homestay programmes as part of tourism offerings.
He said the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC), through its office in Kuching, is ready to assist by providing courses and guidance, including sending officers on-site to help communities upgrade their homes or longhouses into homestays.
“This initiative will not only attract more tourists but also help boost the income and socio-economic standing of local communities,” he said.
