KUCHING: The New Year’s Eve atmosphere is set to reach new heights with the Visit Malaysia (VM) 2026 Countdown Festival at Pavilion Kuala Lumpur.
Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC), in a statement issued on Saturday, said the countdown on Dec 31, beginning at 7 pm, will feature a synchronised pyromusical fireworks display, laser projections and an iconic 3D anamorphic moment starring the campaign’s beloved Malayan Sun Bear mascots, Wira and Manja, who will welcome the crowd into the New Year.
Jointly organised by the MOTAC and The Fame Events, the celebration is designed to set the stage for a spectacular year ahead while highlighting Malaysia’s culture, creativity and unity.
It also marks the first major public event leading into the country’s tourism year and is expected to attract both local audiences and international visitors.
“Visitors can also expect a thrilling evening of performances and cultural showcases that reflect Malaysia’s diversity and talent.
“The celebration presents among the biggest artiste line-up in the country with Shila Amzah, Aina Abdul, Belle Sisoski, Vanessa Reynauld, Kidd Santhe, The Kuans,KLP48, Rezza Shah, Nazu, Danson Ooi, Euzen and Penny.
“Together they will bring a powerful mix of music, tradition and contemporary entertainment to the main stage,” it said.
The festivities begin in the days leading up to the New Year, offering visitors opportunities to experience Malaysia’s rich heritage and creative spirit, embodying the essence of ‘Truly Asia’.
From Dec 26 to 31, the VM2026 Bazaar at Pavilion Bukit Jalil will feature more than 30 local entrepreneurs, giving visitors the chance to explore local food and beverage offerings, artisanal crafts, homegrown brands, and unique gifts.
At the same time, the VM2026 Arts and Culture Showcase at Fahrenheit 88 (Main Atrium) invites participants to engage in hands-on cultural activities, including batik art, porcelain making and wau decoration, alongside traditional wear rentals.
The experience is complemented by curated merchandise, stamp redemptions and surprise flash mobs by Wira and Manja.
Daily Live DJ sets will entertain crowds at Pavilion Kuala Lumpur from Dec 27 to 30, while special performances on Dec 31 will precede the countdown celebration.
Additional street entertainment, including Flashmob and Buskers will take place on Dec 28 (8 pm to 10 pm) at the Bukit Bintang Crossing, Malaysia’s very own infamous Shibuya crossing and on Dec 30 (8 pm to 10 pm) at Pavilion Crystal Fountain, Pavilion Kuala Lumpur.
To ensure a smooth and safe celebration, traffic on Jalan Bukit Bintang near Pavilion Kuala Lumpur will be managed in stages from Dec 29.
Between Dec 29 to 31, only one lane between the JW Marriott Hotel junction and the Sephora junction will be open to accommodate event preparations from midnight to 5 pm.
On Dec 31, the stretch of road between the Jalan Raja Chulan junction and the ‘Shibuya crossing’ intersection at Jalan Sultan Ismail will be fully closed for the countdown celebration from 5 pm until 2 am on Jan 1, 2026.
“During this period, vehicles will be guided via the connecting road between The Westin Kuala Lumpur and JW Marriott Hotel, with access to Jalan Palmer, Jalan Imbi and Jalan Walter Granier.
“Access to Pavilion Kuala Lumpur car parks will remain available.
“Members of the public are encouraged to use public transport, with MRT and LRT services operating with extended hours into the early hours of Jan 1, 2026,” it said.
As visitors gather to welcome the New Year, members of the public are encouraged to play their part in keeping Bukit Bintang clean and welcoming for all.
“Visitors are reminded to dispose of rubbish responsibly and use the bins provided, helping to maintain a clean, safe and pleasant environment as Malaysia presents itself as a world-class destination,” it said.
