By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, Aug 19: Tourism Malaysia has secured international recognition after winning a PATA Gold Award 2026 for its Visit Malaysia 2026 campaign video, “Surreal Experiences”.
The award was presented at the PATA Gold Awards 2026 Gala Dinner held here yesterday (Aug 18), in conjunction with PATA Travel Mart (PTM) 2026 organised by the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA).
Tourism Malaysia deputy director general (Promotions) Mohd Akbal Setia received the award on behalf of the organisation in the Marketing – Travel Video category.
The three-minute promotional video showcases Malaysia’s diverse tourism attractions, rich cultural heritage and authentic travel experiences, while highlighting the country’s unity, harmony and warmth.
Featuring an uplifting soundtrack by local artiste Ernie Zakri, the video incorporates lyrics in various languages spoken by Malaysia’s multiracial society, portraying the country’s cultural diversity and spirit of harmony.
Since its launch in 2025, “Surreal Experiences” has been screened at major international travel shows, exhibitions, roadshows and sales missions as part of efforts to position Malaysia as a premier global tourism destination.
The recognition comes as Malaysia records continued growth in international visitor arrivals.
Tourism Malaysia said the country received 21.2 million visitor arrivals in the first half of 2026, up 2.5 per cent from the 20.6 million recorded during the corresponding period last year.
It said promotional initiatives, including the “Surreal Experiences” video, would continue to play an important role in supporting the country’s tourism growth as Tourism Malaysia works towards its visitor arrival target under the Visit Malaysia 2026–2027 campaign.
The PATA Gold Awards recognise excellence in tourism marketing and sustainable initiatives across two main categories: Marketing and Sustainability & Social Responsibility.
This year, 27 awards were presented, with winners selected by an independent panel of 25 international judges. Grand Title Winners were also named for the best-of-show entries.
The award presentation was held alongside PTM 2026, a major business-to-business travel trade event providing networking and contracting opportunities for tourism organisations to meet key decision-makers, secure new clients, expand market reach and strengthen business partnerships across the Asia-Pacific region.
The Malaysian sellers participating in PTM 2026 comprised six member organisations from the PATA Malaysia Chapter: Malai Adventure Sdn Bhd, Langkawi Development Authority (LADA), Langkawi MICE Holidays & Tours Sdn Bhd, FIC Hospitality Sdn Bhd, World Express (M) Sdn Bhd and U2 Travel & Tours Sdn Bhd. — Bernama
