PHNOM PENH: Malaysia’s targeted campaign showcasing its magnificent and diverse tourism attractions is wooing more Lao nationals to its shores.
Lao tourist arrivals to Malaysia from January to August this year reached 20,335 - a 12.7 per cent jump compared to 2024.
The numbers may sound minuscule, but they reflect the growth in regional tourism, driven by improved connectivity to Malaysia, a must-visit tourist destination in South-East Asia.
"The number of Laotians arriving in Malaysia is increasing year by year after the (Covid-19) pandemic because of more optional connectivity with direct flights or transit in Bangkok, Ho Chi Minh or Singapore, Vientiane-based Tourism Malaysia Laos Marketing Manager Sordaly Chanthavong told Bernama. "Besides, travel to Malaysia by train through Thailand is more convenient."
Malaysia is busy preparing for Visit Malaysia 2026, launching captivating marketing campaigns in the Indochina region from Cambodia, Laos, to Vietnam.
It has set an ambitious mark of about 35 million visitors to tour the country next year, generating RM147 billion.
"Tourism Malaysia in Vientiane is doing promotion activities from time to time and works closely with Lao travel agencies, airlines and KOL (key opinion leaders) to boost Malaysian tourism in Laos.
"The numbers for 2026 will increase because we will promote a new option of travelling to Malaysia by train.
"Malaysia has many things that Laos doesn’t have, such as beaches, theme parks, shopping for affordable brand products, as well as a modern city which they can afford. I think arrivals for this year could reach 30,000,” she added.
About 26,000 Laotians visited Malaysia last year. - Bernama
