KUALA LUMPUR: Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing has called on all officers and agencies under his ministry to work as one team and step up efforts ahead of Visit Malaysia Year 2026, describing the initiative as both a major challenge and a shared national responsibility.
In an address to Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC) staff on Friday, Tiong said 2026 would not be an ordinary year, as Malaysia aims to attract more international visitors through stronger, faster and more strategic efforts.
“Although this message comes from me as the minister, success can only be achieved if we move forward as one team,” he said, stressing that the ministry could not afford to remain in its comfort zone and must go beyond existing achievements to draw tourists from around the world.
Tiong emphasised that efforts to drive the tourism sector should not be seasonal or confined to a single year.
While Visit Malaysia Year 2026 serves as a catalyst, he said the responsibility of building the sector extends well beyond that timeline.
“What we build today must form a strong foundation for sustainable tourism growth in the years to come,” he said.
Tiong also highlighted the importance of strengthening cultural tourism as one of Malaysia’s core competitive advantages, noting that the country’s heritage, arts, traditions and ethnic diversity are not merely supporting elements but strategic assets that set Malaysia apart on the global tourism stage.
“These strengths create more meaningful experiences for visitors and differentiate Malaysia from other destinations,” he said.
On promotion, Tiong called for a more aggressive, creative and high-impact approach as Malaysia would not gain global recognition unless it actively engages international markets, introduces new narratives and tourism products, and showcases the country’s true uniqueness.
He further urged all overseas offices, agencies and departments under MOTAC to move in sync, communicate clearly and act decisively.
“There must be no more work without timelines and no more excuses without solutions. If there is a problem, discuss it. If there is an obstacle, find a way forward together,” he said.
Describing the ministry as the face of Malaysia to the world, Tiong said MOTAC’s role goes beyond administration, as it carries the responsibility of promoting the nation and its people on the global stage.
He expressed confidence that with unity, courage to change and genuine commitment, Malaysia could achieve greater heights, adding that Visit Malaysia Year 2026 is a collective responsibility.
Tiong also thanked MOTAC staff and agencies for their dedication and support, calling on them to continue working together for the country, its people and Malaysia’s future.
