Tiong (sixth from left) with guests at the event in Petaling Jaya. — MUHAMAD SHAHRIL ROSLI/The Star
TOURISM, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing hosted a special buka puasa event for foreign diplomats, extending a warm welcome to ambassadors and high commissioners representing various countries.
At the event in Petaling Jaya, Selangor, Tiong said he was grateful for the opportunity to gather with foreign diplomats to strengthen diplomatic ties during the fasting month.
“Through this event, we aim to foster closer collaboration in promoting Malaysia’s vibrant tourism offerings, particularly as we prepare for Visit Malaysia Year 2026.
“The evening also showcases the richness of Malaysian culture, featuring local cuisine, traditional gamelan music and exhibition of handcrafted songket, batik and wood carvings by Kraftangan Malaysia,” he said.
Among attendees were Deputy Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Khairul Firdaus Akbar Khan, ministry secretary-general Datuk Roslan Abdul Rahman and Tourism Malaysia director-general Manoharan Periasamy.
Last year, Malaysia welcomed 20.14 million international tourists, generating RM71.3bil in tourism receipts.
This year, Malaysia aims to attract 27.3 million tourists and generate RM102.7bil in tourism receipts.
The ministry is expecting 35.6 million tourist arrivals and RM147.1bil in tourism receipts during Visit Malaysia Year 2026.
