Malaysia ushered in the New Year with a nationwide celebration across major international gateways and transportation hubs to welcome international visitors to Malaysia, marking the official launch of the Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026) campaign.
The welcoming ceremonies took place simultaneously at 55 key entry points and strategic locations across all 13 states, signalling a unified start to the nation’s premier tourism campaign.
Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Dato Sri Tiong King Sing attended the primary reception at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA).
“VM2026 is not merely a tourism campaign; it is a nationwide movement that reflects our unity, harmony, warmth, and cultural diversity. By welcoming travellers on the first day of the year, we are highlighting Malaysia’s commitment to delivering an inclusive, creative and hospitable tourism experience throughout 2026,” said Tiong.
In Kuala Lumpur, celebrations were held at two land transportation hubs, namely Kuala Lumpur Sentral (KL Sentral) and the Terminal Bersepadu Selatan (TBS).
The ceremony at KL Sentral was officiated by Tourism Malaysia’s Board of Directors member Datin Christina Toh Lai Fong, along with KTMB chief operating officer Afzar Zakariya, Kuala Lumpur mayor representative Naquib Hamdan, Malaysian Resources Corporation Berhad (MRCB) representative Richard Anthony, Aloft Hotel Kuala Lumpur representative Sabreena Anuwar, Malaysia Tourism Centre (MaTiC) director Mohamad Nawwar Faiq Mohamad Noh and Tourism Malaysia human resource division director Mohamad Nasir Pahmi.
Meanwhile at TBS, the ceremony was officiated by Tourism Malaysia’s Board of Directors member Loo Kok Seong, along with TBS chief executive officer Shazwan Mohammad, National Department for Culture and Arts (JKKN) director general Mohd Amran Mohd Haris, Kuala Lumpur Tourism Association (KLTA) president Syed Azhar Nadzir and Motac tourism licensing and enforcement division undersecretary Dr Johnny Anak Andrew.
The nationwide welcome celebrations were made possible through close coordination with state governments, airlines, airport authorities, tourism industry players and strategic partners. Support included logistical assistance, venue preparations and sponsorships from corporate partners, including Keretapi Tanah Melayu Berhad, Malaysian Resources Corporation Berhad, Kuala Lumpur City Hall, (DBKL), Terminal Bersepadu Selatan (TBS), TMAS Sdn Bhd, BOH, Express Rail Link Sdn Bhd (ERL), Gamuda Land, Grab Malaysia, Guardian, Hock Kee Kopitiam, JINS Health Group, Mamee-Double Decker (M) Sdn Bhd, Mitec and Syarikat Permainan Malaysia Sdn Bhd.
Their contributions ranging from vouchers, food and beverage products to souvenirs and attraction discounts, enhanced the arrival experience for travellers while showcasing Malaysia’s warmth, harmony, diversity and vibrant tourism offerings.
The synchronised celebration across airports, border checkpoints and key transportation terminals serves as a powerful symbol of Malaysia’s readiness to welcome the world with confidence and openness.
The first groups of travellers arriving at selected locations were greeted with Malaysian cultural performances, street buskers and contemporary showcases infused with heritage elements, alongside appearances by the VM2026’s official mascots, Wira and Manja. Travellers also received VM2026-themed souvenirs, including exclusive mascot keychains.
As part of the VM2026 campaign, Malaysia will roll out a year-long calendar of more than 300 events highlighting the nation’s multicultural identity, artistic heritage and festive traditions.
Key highlights include the VM2026-themed festivals for Chinese New Year, Hari Raya Aidilfitri, Deepavali and Christmas, alongside iconic cultural events such as Tadau Kaamatan and Gawai Dayak.
Through the VM2026 campaign, Malaysia aims to attract 43 million international visitors in 2026, aligning with ongoing efforts to strengthen the tourism sector as a key driver of the nation’s economic growth.
Guided by its theme song, Surreal Experiences, the VM2026 campaign promises a vibrant year-long programme of festivals, cultural showcases, exhibitions, community celebrations and uniquely Malaysian experiences designed to captivate travellers from around the world.
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