January 23, 2026
Local
Local
KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 23 — Two foreign nationals have become the first individuals in Malaysia to be charged in court for littering under the newly enforced anti-littering law, according to a report by The Star.
PUTRAJAYA, May 22 — A total of 103 new flight routes, 29 additional flight frequencies, and five chartered flights from major international markets have been approved to enhance global connectivity in preparation for Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026).
Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi revealed the updates during today’s Cabinet Committee on Tourism and Culture (JKPK) meeting, which he chaired.
He emphasized the need for a comprehensive international campaign, fully supported by the government, to ensure the success of VM2026. Key strategies include boosting demand by strengthening the Malaysia Truly Asia and Cuti-Cuti Malaysia brands, collaborating with airlines and tour operators, and employing market segmentation to attract high-value international visitors.
“The government is fully committed to making tourism a key driver of economic growth, in line with the Malaysia MADANI vision and the Rebuilding the Economy initiative,” Zahid said in a statement. “This sector contributes significantly to GDP, creates employment opportunities, and enhances Malaysia’s global competitiveness.”
He added that the meeting outlined seven flagship events planned as major attractions for VM2026: the Malaysia Mega Sale, Malaysia Cultural Festival, Global Meet, World Tourism Day & Conference, the Official Launch of VM2026, the VM2026 Year-End Sale, and the Countdown Celebration to VM2026.
Additionally, the meeting was briefed on the Sustainable Tourism Programme under the Greening Protocol Initiative. Led by Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) and the Selangor government, this initiative includes adopting low-carbon technologies, promoting green mobility, and enhancing urban green spaces to position Malaysia as a top-tier sustainable tourism destination.
Zahid called on all ministries and agencies to collaborate with the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC) to support tourism as a national agenda.
“The success of our tourism sector depends on coordinated policies and inclusive execution,” he stressed.
He also urged frontliners, especially those at international gateways, to uphold professionalism and warmth as Malaysia’s ambassadors in welcoming tourists.
“With strong collaboration from all stakeholders, I am confident that we can position Malaysia as a leading global tourism destination by 2026,” he added. — Bernama
