By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, Jan 10: As Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026) gains momentum, Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture Dato Sri Tiong King Sing urged officers and agencies under the ministry to move beyond the campaign in driving the country’s tourism promotion.
In a Facebook post, when addressing members of the Ministry of Tourism, Culture, and Arts (Motac), he said VM2026 requires everyone to work harder, faster, and more strategically in attracting tourists to the country.
“The challenges before us are significant, and we cannot remain in our comfort zones. Instead, we must go beyond existing achievements and attract more tourists from around the world to Malaysia.
“However, efforts to drive the tourism sector cannot be seasonal or limited to a single year. VM2026 is a catalyst, but our responsibility extends far beyond 2026. What we build today must form a strong foundation for sustainable tourism growth in the years to come.
“In this context, cultural tourism must continue to be strengthened as a key national asset. Malaysia’s heritage, arts, customs, and ethnic diversity are not merely supporting elements, but strategic assets that can distinguish Malaysia on the global tourism stage and create more meaningful experiences for visitors,” he said.
Tiong, who is also the MP for Bintulu and assemblyman for Dudong, emphasised that national promotion must be carried out more aggressively, creatively, and with greater impact.
“The world will not come to know Malaysia if we do not go out into the field, bring forward new narratives, introduce new products, and showcase the true uniqueness of our country—be it in our culture, ethnic diversity, heritage, arts, or our people,” he said.
He also called on all overseas offices, agencies, and departments under Motac to move in unison, communicate clearly, and act swiftly.
“This ministry is the face of Malaysia to the world. We are not merely administrators; we are promoters of the nation. We must be confident in the value we bring and be serious about fulfilling this mission.
“I believe that if we stand united, are brave enough to change, and truly committed, Malaysia can go much further. Visit Malaysia Year 2026 is a shared responsibility,” he said. — DayakDaily
