By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, Aug 6: Malaysia’s Heads of Diplomatic Missions abroad have been urged to promote the country’s rich multicultural heritage, traditions, tourism destinations and year-round events as part of efforts to strengthen Malaysia’s presence in the international tourism market.
Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Dato Sri Tiong King Sing said the diplomatic representatives, as Malaysia’s frontliners on the global stage, played an important role in introducing the country’s unique identity and expanding the reach of the Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026) campaign, which has been extended until the end of 2027.
He said Malaysia should be positioned internationally as a destination that offers diverse cultural experiences, a vibrant heritage, attractive tourism destinations and a wide range of events throughout the year.
“Malaysia must be promoted as a country rich with the culture of various communities, heritage, tourism destinations and events held throughout the year,” he said in a statement following a courtesy visit by Malaysia’s Heads of Diplomatic Missions abroad at the ministry’s office in Putrajaya today.
Tiong also called on the representatives to work closely with Tourism Malaysia and its overseas offices to promote major events, new tourism products, and the country’s arts, culture and heritage offerings.
He said promotional strategies should be tailored according to the interests of local markets in each country and strengthened through partnerships with airlines, tourism industry players, media organisations and strategic partners.
“Facing global economic and geopolitical uncertainties, our approach needs to be more organised, creative and focused,” he said.
Tiong added that Malaysia’s tourism strategy should go beyond increasing visitor arrivals by encouraging tourists to stay longer, spend more and explore more destinations nationwide.
He said the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC) and Tourism Malaysia remained open to proposals, promotional collaborations and new opportunities that could enhance Malaysia’s competitiveness in the international tourism market.
He also expressed hope that the networks and partnerships built by the diplomatic missions would create greater avenues for cooperation and strengthen Malaysia’s global standing. — DayakDaily
