SIBU: Sarawak is seen as having great potential to serve as a main gateway to the success of Visit Malaysia Year 2026 (VM2026) through its unique culture, ethnic diversity, and harmonious society, says Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing.
He said Sarawak’s strength, which is rich in diverse cultural heritage, is an important asset in attracting international tourists, especially from the Asian region.
“This is Sarawak’s advantage. We have a very unique culture, food and way of life. This is what the world wants to see and understand about Malaysia,” he said during a press conference in conjunction with the Sibujaya Countdown 2025 here last night (Dec 29).
Tiong who is also Bintulu MP said VM2026 was not just a tourism promotion campaign, but rather a platform to prove to the world that Malaysia is a peaceful, united country that respects cultural diversity.
He also reminded all parties not to politicise cultural and religious issues because harmony is the country’s main strength, especially in Sarawak.
“Don’t make culture a political or divisive issue. We must show the world that Malaysia, especially Sarawak, is an example of unity and harmony,” he stressed.
Commenting on the tourist target, Tiong explained that the government hopes to attract more than 40 million tourists to Malaysia by 2026, following the significant increase in tourist arrivals over the past few years.
He said that community-based events such as the VM2026 countdown celebration that brings together families, youth, cultural performances, local food, exhibition stalls and e-sports activities prove Sarawak’s readiness to support the campaign.
He also called on all states to work together to promote their respective identities, with Sarawak being the best example in showcasing the diversity of local cultures and gastronomy.
“Each race has its own food and culture. We must promote all of this so that tourists know and understand who we are,” he said.
Meanwhile, Tiong said the Sun Bear Mascot was chosen as the symbol of VM2026 because it symbolises friendliness, honesty and unity, values synonymous with Malaysians.
