Explorers World Ventures Sdn Bhd, a Malaysian-based tourism and events company dedicated to promoting Asia’s diverse culture and lifestyle through creative experiences, has officially launched the Asian Youth Festival 2026.
The launch ceremony held at Saloma Kuala Lumpur on January 28, 2026 was officiated by the Deputy Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Chiew Choon Man.
The festival, scheduled to take place from July 10 to 12, 2026 at Mines International Exhibition & Convention Centre (MIECC) in Seri Kembangan, aims to unite Asian youth while promoting creativity, inclusivity and regional friendship, with the hope of inspiring the next generation to lead with passion, innovation and cultural pride.
Supported by the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, in conjunction with Visit Malaysia Year 2026, the event will feature various large-scale multi-vertical activities that are close to the hearts of youth today – music, fashion, sports, e-sports, ACG, food, travel, social engagement and discourse.
Speaking at the launch, Chiew said the ministry is proud that the private sector has come on board to support Visit Malaysia Year 2026 (VMY2026) with an elaborate and highly engaging festival program.
“We believe the Asian Youth Festival, with its extensive, thrilling and diverse youth engagement programme, will be a boost to the tourism sector this year,” he said.
Also present at the event were VMY2026 head of secretariat Mohd Akbal Setia; representatives of Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture and Tourism Malaysia; eminent dignitaries from the fields of culture, fashion, gaming, music and sports; celebrity guests; key partners and collaborators; and media.
Chiew said Malaysia’s tourism sector continues to demonstrate strong momentum with growing visitor numbers.
“Building on the encouraging recovery and growth of recent years, our nation has confidently set its sights on welcoming approximately 47 million international visitors by 2026, positioning Malaysia once again as one of Asia’s most dynamic and attractive tourism destinations,” he said.
The festival also aims to create a vibrant platform that connects youths from diverse Asian nations through shared experiences and showcases the best of Asian culture – from food and fashion to entertainment and digital innovation, while boosting youth tourism in support of Visit Malaysia Year 2026 by positioning Malaysia as the cultural hub of Asia.
The welcome address was delivered by festival co-founders Chris Avinash and Marina Abdullah.
“Asian Youth Festival 2026 is more than an event – it’s a platform where creativity, innovation and culture converge,” said Chris.
“AYF 2026 is a festival designed by the youth for the youth, where everyone will be able to experience the heartbeat of Asia’s culture – where rhythm, ideas and energy collide,” he added.
Meanwhile Marina said AYF 2026 transforms its venue into a living hub of creativity, culture and collaboration ready to meet the challenges of the future.
“The three-day festival will feature live stages, pop-up booths, international guests, tournaments, food showcases and a shared spirit that defines what it means to be young in Asia today,” she said.
Festival-goers will get to meet and unite with thousands of young creators, innovators, performers and adventurers from across Asia at the most vibrant youth gathering of the year.
Seven key zones will be created to celebrate the youth at the festival spanning over 1.2 million sq ft of land. These zones and the general event programme were presented by a panel of key youth personalities representing their areas of specialty during the launch event.
The seven zones are:
Music Concerts
Festival goers will enjoy a variety of live acts made up of rising stars and headline performers across Asia – from Pop, Rock, Traditional Fusion, Hip-Hop, EDM, Indie and K-Pop.
e-Sports Arena
Sports enthusiasts will get to compete or cheer on teams in thrilling Mobile Legends battles with big prizes and electrifying games.
ACG & TCG Zone
ACG fans will get to participate in cosplay competitions, collector zones, trading card tournaments and fan meet-ups.
Fashion Street
Fashion-centric festival-goers will discover fresh streetwear, young or student designers, and style showcases that celebrate creativity and expression.
Asian Food Village
Food lovers will savour and explore authentic and fusion flavours from across Asia with 10 themed streets of delicious discoveries.
Youth Engagement Zone
Visitors will also be able to appreciate and enjoy interactive talks, workshops and future-focused sessions on leadership, innovation and entrepreneurship.
Pickleball Tournament
Festival goers will also be able join or watch the exciting Asian Pickleball Challenge with attractive prizes and friendly competition for all.
The Asian Youth Festival is presented by Explorers World Ventures as the festival owner and strategic tourism platform and Memories Entertainment as the official festival partner and production collaborator.
