Sarawak turns up the volume on tourism as Visit Malaysia 2026 nears

Rubiah Tul’Adwiyah (left) with the King and Queen of the Night at the Tourism Malaysia Appreciation Night 2025 at a hotel in Kuching on Dec 12, 2025.
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By Dayangku Hidayatul

KUCHING, Dec 12: Sarawak’s tourism sector is set for a major boost in 2026 as Tourism Malaysia Sarawak rolls out stronger domestic marketing, bigger digital visibility and themed promotions highlighting the State’s rich culture and nature.

Tourism Malaysia Sarawak regional director Rubiah Tul’Adwiyah Md Yusof said the coming year will be crucial as the nation heads towards Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026).

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“It has been a year of recovery and renewed momentum. Sarawak has continued to shine as one of Malaysia’s most unique destinations—rich in culture, nature, and adventure.

“From the extraordinary biodiversity of our rainforests to the warmth of our various ethnic communities and food that is sometimes so good it leaves visitors speechless, Sarawak continues to amaze international and domestic travellers.

“And with your support, Tourism Malaysia has successfully rolled out campaigns, roadshows, trade programmes, digital promotions, media collaborations, and familiarisation trips throughout the year,” she said during her speech at the Tourism Malaysia Appreciation Night 2025 at a hotel here tonight.

Rubiah Tul’Adwiyah further said that the industry’s contribution helped expand Sarawak’s presence in ASEAN.

As Malaysia prepares for VM2026, she stressed its importance and outlined its goals, including promoting sustainability, culture, digital tourism and stronger partnerships.

“After all, where else can you find orangutans, ancient cultures, pepper that can change your life and laksa that has been declared the ‘breakfast of the gods’?” she said.

She also thanked tourism players and media members, calling them the backbone of Malaysia’s tourism efforts and the reason the country’s stories reach audiences globally.

Tourism Malaysia Appreciation Night 2025 lit up with vibrant cultural performances, traditional attire and lively mascots at a hotel in Kuching on Dec 12, 2025.
Rubiah Tul’Adwiyah (centre) joins guests and performers on stage dancing to ‘Bekikis Bulu Betis’.

“Tourism is a team sport. And tonight, this room is full of the strongest, most creative, and most passionate team members we could ask for.

“As we enter 2026, let us continue this journey together with confidence, creativity and maybe a good sense of humour because we will definitely need it,” she concluded. —DayakDaily

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