By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, Jan 28: It is vital for everyone to set aside their differences and prioritise the steady progress of Malaysia’s development, which is crucial to national economic growth and the people’s livelihood.
In a Chinese New Year message posted on Facebook, Minister of Tourism, Arts, and Culture Dato Sri Tiong King Sing said this is especially vital as the highly anticipated Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026) campaign approaches.
“We aim to attract 35.6 million tourists and generate RM147.1 billion in revenue through two core pillars: high-value tourism and sustainable tourism.
“By transforming short-term visits into extended stays and encouraging greater spending, we can stimulate economic growth and ensure all Malaysians benefit from the dividends of tourism,” he said.
He said as the year transitions from 2024 to 2025, it brings with it fresh opportunities and boundless hope—making it a pivotal moment for continuity and renewal and a time to overcome challenges and embrace new possibilities.
Tiong, who is also the assemblyman for Dudong, said through cultural revitalisation and preservation, Malaysia’s Chinese New Year practices have evolved into an evocative cultural emblem and an enduring tale through time.
In this land of harmonious multiculturalism, he said, the people cherish the values of blending the old with the new and embracing diversity, enabling the heritage of all ethnic cultures to thrive and radiate brilliance in the modern era.
“Alongside traditional Chinese New Year customs, Malaysia has developed unique cultural products, such as the increasingly popular festive markets, the booming New Year music industry, and lion dance collaborations on the international stage.
“These modern expressions of Malaysia’s Chinese New Year culture reflect the warmth of our cultural diversity and the harmony among our people,” said the Bintulu MP.
“I wish everyone good fortune, happiness, and success in the Year of the Snake! May your paths ahead be filled with abundance, and may the Year of the Snake bring you endless blessings! Happy Chinese New Year to All!” — DayakDaily
