KUALA LUMPUR: The full-length Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026) promotional video showcases all races in the country and leaves no one out.
The latest video aims to show Malaysia’s harmony alongside its many destinations, said Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing.
He was speaking to the media after the launch of the promotional video at a cinema here.
The 35-minute video, which was shown to the media, featured the 13 states as well as the Federal Territories of Kuala Lumpur, Labuan and Putrajaya.
Unlike a 41-second clip released earlier, which caught flak for not showing mosques, this one features mosques, temples and churches in each state.
Tourism Malaysia’s mascots – the Malayan sunbears Wira and Manja – were also around during the premiere.
“We will update this video quarterly, as there may be new destinations and tourism packages. We engage with all states,” said Tiong.
Bear-y exciting time: (From left) Manoharan, Roslan, Tiong, Khairul Firdaus Akbar Khan, Chua Choon Hwa and Datuk Shaharuddin Abu Sohot posing for a photograph alongside mascots Wira and Manja at the launch of the VM2026 promotional video. — LOW LAY PHON/The Star
He said the ministry could not please everyone but hoped critics would provide constructive criticism.
“Whatever we do, there will be complaints. We will take the comments in a positive manner but do not politicise the issue.
“We have spent RM1.9mil for over 200 videos. The process started last year and we selected the right videos.
“We wanted to share that Malaysia is a country with many destinations with many different packages for tourists.
“That (controversial) short video was just a promotion,” he said.
On Jan 9, Tiong had ordered a re-make of the video to effectively promote each state, as he was dissatisfied with the earlier version.
At the launch, Tourism Malaysia director-general Datuk Manoharan Periasamy said the full-length video was a part of a strategic initiative to strengthen Malaysia’s position as a premier global tourism destination.
“The promotional video plays a crucial role in showcasing Malaysia’s uniqueness to international tourists.
“In addition to the main video, five special promotional videos have been produced, each highlighting the unique attractions of Malaysia’s five key regions – central, northern, eastern, and southern regions of Peninsular Malaysia, as well as Borneo (Sabah and Sarawak).
“Each video, approximately 10 minutes long, focuses on the distinct charm of each region.
“These materials will be used across various promotional platforms, including digital media, social media, and electronic broadcasts, both domestically and internationally. I have also emphasised to the production team and Tourism Malaysia the importance of continuous engagement with all states now and in the future.
“This ensures that the promotional videos remain updated and relevant to the latest tourism attractions across the country,” said Manoharan.
He also called on Malaysians to support the video and be ambassadors of the country by promoting the uniqueness of Malaysia.
“The success of Visit Malaysia Year does not rely solely on promotional videos. Ongoing support and active participation from all stakeholders – tourism industry players, the private sector, and the people of Malaysia – are essential.
“I urge everyone to be ambassadors of our nation’s tourism, ensuring that every visitor to Malaysia leaves with unforgettable experiences,” said Manoharan.
He also said the support for Wira and Manja has been very good and official promotional merchandise featuring the sunbear pair will soon be released by Tourism Malaysia.
Also present at the premiere was ministry secretary-general Datuk Roslan Abdul Rahman.
