By Shikin Louis
KUCHING, Sept 14: Malaysia welcomed 24.5 million visitors between January and July 2025, marking a 16.8 per cent increase compared to 21 million during the same period last year.
Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture Dato Sri Tiong King Sing said the strong growth underscores Malaysia’s position as a top tourism destination, made possible with the full support of the federal government, especially Prime Minister Dato Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
“Despite limited resources and funding constraints, we continue to seek innovative approaches to ensure every programme delivers maximum impact for the people and the country,” Tiong said in his speech during the Malaysia Cultural Festival 2025 “Wow Malaysia” gala night broadcast live by Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC) last night.
This year’s festival showcases over 68 activities across six zones, from Wayang Kulit Nusantara, Menora, Silat, the Borneo Village, International Silabam and Horseback Archery Championship, Chinese community celebrations, to the “Rumah Kami” Festival and other ethnic showcases.
Tiong said the festival is more than entertainment as it reflects Malaysia’s multicultural spirit of harmony, respect and compassion under MADANI values while also benefiting local communities through income generated from food, crafts, accommodation and related tourism activities.
The event was officiated by Prime Minister Dato Seri Anwar Ibrahim, whose presence was described by Tiong as an inspiration to the entire arts, culture and tourism ecosystem.
Also present were Deputy Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture Datuk Khairul Firdaus Akbar Khan, Federal Territories Minister Datuk Seri Dr Zaliha Mustafa, and Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Dato Sri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar.
In conjunction with the festival, three Malaysia Book of Records (MBOR) titles were also set for the largest Malaysia MADANI kolam, the largest participation in a Kolattam performance, and the most simultaneous Urumi Melam performances across all 14 states in a single day. – DayakDaily
