KUCHING: With Visit Malaysia 2026 just a year away, Sarawak’s tourism sector is poised for a significant boost, with projected tourism receipts expected to reach RM12.73 billion in 2025 and RM13.12 billion in 2026.
Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said that this positive outlook is driven by ongoing marketing campaigns, strategic investments, and infrastructure development to enhance Sarawak’s appeal as a premier tourist destination.
He expressed optimism that Sarawak is on track to become a leading global tourism powerhouse by 2030.
“The tourism receipts in 2024 accounted for 8.85 per cent of Sarawak’s gross domestic product (GDP). In January 2025, total visitor arrivals reached 400,531, reflecting a 13.47 per cent increase compared to the same period in 2024.
“Additionally, the generated tourism receipts amounted to RM1.02 billion, representing a 12.11 per cent rise from January 2024.
“For the year 2025, Sarawak is targeting 5 million visitors and aims to achieve RM12.73 billion in tourism receipts,” he said when chairing the Sarawak Tourism Steering Committee Meeting (STSC) 2025 here on Thursday (Feb 27).
Despite these positive trends, he lamented that challenges remain.
Abdul Karim acknowledged the rapid advancement of digitalisation and the rise of artificial intelligence are reshaping the tourism landscape.
Citing Mitra Sorrels from Phocuswright, he said that 66 per cent of all travel bookings are now made online, with expectations for this figure to surpass 70 per cent by 2027.
This shift, he stressed, places additional pressure on traditional travel agencies and tour operators, emphasising the need for innovation and adaptation within the industry.
The growing demand for authentic travel experiences and the challenges posed by climate change and geopolitical instability are also influencing tourism dynamics.
“I would like to thank all government agencies for your dedicated collaboration and continuous efforts in promoting our state’s tourism, arts, culture, and heritage and contributing to the Sarawak economy.
“I look forward to having a fruitful and productive year in 2025,” he added.
