KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia ushered in the New Year with a strong show of hospitality as the Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026) campaign officially commenced on the first day of 2026, marked by a welcoming programme for international visitors at Kuala Lumpur International Airport Terminal 1 (KLIA T1).
Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister, Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing, said the programme symbolised Malaysia’s openness and readiness to receive visitors from around the world, setting the tone for the year-long tourism campaign.
Speaking after greeting arriving tourists alongside officers from MOTAC and Tourism Malaysia, he said the initiative marked the official launch of VM2026.
“I would like to express my highest appreciation and gratitude to all agencies and strategic partners for their strong commitment and support in ensuring the successful implementation of the Visit Malaysia 2026 campaign,” he said, adding that close cooperation among all stakeholders was crucial to ensure the campaign runs smoothly and effectively.
Tiong said the spirit of celebration and inclusivity had already been evident the night before during the New Year’s Eve celebrations with Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim at Pavilion Kuala Lumpur, which drew large crowds comprising both Malaysians and international tourists.
“That same spirit continues this morning through the tourist welcome programme at the nation’s main gateway,” he said.
The welcome event at KLIA was enlivened by the appearance of VM2026’s official mascots, Wira and Manja – Malaysia’s iconic sun bears – which symbolise national identity, friendliness and the country’s warm hospitality towards visitors.
Similar welcome programmes were held simultaneously at 55 major entry points and strategic locations across all 13 states, reflecting a united national effort in driving the VM2026 campaign.
Tiong also stressed the importance of maintaining high levels of preparedness and service quality as Malaysia seeks to increase tourist arrivals.
“I have received recent feedback and complaints, and I would like to remind all agencies and frontline personnel to continue delivering services with patience, friendliness and professionalism.
“Your role on the ground is vital in shaping visitors’ experiences and in reflecting the true warmth of Malaysian hospitality to the world,” he said.
Calling on Malaysians to play their part, Tiong said VM2026 should be viewed not merely as a tourism campaign, but as a national movement that embodies unity, harmony and cultural diversity.
“The warm welcome extended to visitors from the very first day of this year reflects Malaysia’s readiness to embrace the world with confidence and openness,” he added.
