PETALING JAYA: That little-known beach, a food haven in a small town, or a breathtaking view from a hilltop you never knew existed.
There are sights, sounds and food in Malaysia that many of us might not even know about.
That Malaysia you have never seen before will be on show at the Star Karnival Cuti-Cuti Malaysia 2025 – a flagship domestic tourism fair across six states promoting tourism, culture, food and community engagement.
The Star Karnival Cuti-Cuti Malaysia 2025, beginning from Sept 19 in Kuantan, is a strategic collaboration between Star Media Group Bhd (SMG) and Tourism Malaysia to celebrate Malaysian culture and galvanise the nation as we head towards Visit Malaysia 2026.
It was launched by Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing alongside the ministry’s deputy secretary-general (Tourism) Chua Choon Hwa and Tourism Malaysia director-general Datuk Manoharan Periasamy at Menara Star here yesterday.
Also present were Star Media Group (SMG) group chief executive officer Chan Seng Fatt, chief operating officer Lydia Wang and chief content officer Datin Paduka Esther Ng.
“We have been taking our domestic destinations for granted, so come and find what you have not explored, look at the available domestic product and taste what you have not tasted before,” said Tourism Malaysia senior director (tourism & events division) Datin Rafidah Idris.
“Domestic tourism has been the backbone of the industry. This carnival is special not just because we are selling tourism packages, but also because we highlight the unique heritage, culture and food.
“We are bringing the whole of Malaysia to one place,” she told the media after the launch.
Those interested in being exhibitors can contact Tourism Malaysia or SMG for more information.
Asked if other industry players with similar events will be affected by the carnival, Rafidah said it will instead help every stakeholder and open up opportunities.
Chan said SMG loves telling stories – and there is no better story than the one Malaysians share.
“The phrase Cuti-Cuti Malaysia always brings a smile to my face. It reminds me of the family road trips, that little-known beach, a plate of char kuey teow in a small town, or that breathtaking view from a hilltop we never knew existed.
“These are memories and experiences that connect us to our country and to each other – that feeling of connection and rediscovery is why we are all here today,” he said in his welcoming remarks.
Chan said the carnival was about creating impact and momentum through the six stops while aiming to drive footfall and spending in the host states, shining a spotlight on small medium enterprises and micro-entrepreneurs as well as to promote travel itineraries that extend visitors’ stays.
“We expect to engage over 200,000 visitors and reach millions more through our media platforms, amplifying the call to explore Malaysia,” Chan said.
The carnival is expected to engage Malaysians, by showcasing local attractions, cultural performances, travel deals and destination experiences.
The Klang Valley stop of the carnival will be held within The Great Outdoor Expo at MAEPS Serdang from Oct 3 to 5, featuring the largest outdoor travel showcase, giving visitors an experience of adventure, culture and travel promotions.
There will be 4x4 test zones, RV campers, military vehicle demos, wall climbing, flying fox, abseiling, colouring contests, petting zoo, fun run, treasure hunt, talks by travel experts and not to mention food trucks, live performances and a flea market.
