ALOR SETAR: “Temasya Orang Kedah” (TOK) will remain a signature event on Kedah’s tourism calendar for years to come following the overwhelming response from visitors, according to the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC).
MOTAC Secretary-General Datuk Shaharuddin Abu Sohot said the large-scale festival has become an important catalyst for domestic tourism by encouraging Malaysians to travel within the country, thereby stimulating the local economy and reducing spending abroad.
“The response has been very encouraging since last Thursday, and we expect to achieve our target of 550,000 visitors by this Sunday. We have welcomed many visitors from other states, including Selangor and Perak, as well as tourists from neighbouring Thailand,” he said.
He was speaking at the opening ceremony of Temasya Orang Kedah 2026 at the Darul Aman Stadium grounds last night.
The event was officiated by the Raja Muda of Kedah, Tengku Sarafudin Badlishah ibni Al Aminul Karim Sultan Sallehuddin.
On preparations for Visit Malaysia Year 2026 (VM2026), Shaharuddin said promotional efforts were progressing well, with no significant impact on tourist arrivals.
“However, we have adjusted our strategy by focusing on markets less affected by the conflict between the United States and Iran, such as South Korea, China, Australia and Southeast Asian countries. The response from international tourists has been very encouraging,” he said.
Meanwhile, Kedah Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor said the sixth edition of TOK would create greater business opportunities for local entrepreneurs.
“The turnout has been tremendous, providing entrepreneurs with opportunities to expand their businesses. Through programmes like this, we hope to nurture more homegrown entrepreneurs.
“This year, 130 booths are showcasing a wide variety of food products and merchandise, helping to attract visitors from outside the state.
“Last year, TOK drew about 540,000 visitors. This year, we are targeting 550,000, and I aspire to see the festival attract one million visitors in future editions,” he said.
— BERNAMA
