GEORGE TOWN: Malaysians may soon enjoy cheaper flights to Sabah and Sarawak as the government works with airlines to boost domestic travel, says Tourism Malaysia.
Tourism Malaysia deputy chairman Datuk Yeoh Soon Hin said this as The Star Karnival Cuti-Cuti Malaysia kicked off here, rallying tourists to discover the nation’s diverse attractions and cultures ahead of Visit Malaysia 2026.
Yeoh said the government was working with airlines to encourage more travel to Sabah and Sarawak by offering more competitive rates.
“Discussions are underway to explore ways to make domestic flights more affordable, particularly for routes connecting Peninsular Malaysia to Sabah and Sarawak,” he said during a press conference after launching the event at Gurney Paragon Mall yesterday.
Yeoh added that air connectivity remained essential for inter-state travel and greater collaboration between the government and airlines would boost tourism and strengthen national integration.
He said that promoting local tourism is vital to help Malaysians discover and appreciate more about their own country.
Yeoh said there were many places that had yet to be experienced by domestic travellers.
“We need to know more about the local culture of every state and corner of the country.
Support local trips: Yeoh and Chan posing for a group photo with other VIPs and exhibitors during the second day of The Star Karnival Cuti-Cuti Malaysia at Gurney Paragon Mall. — ZHAFARAN NASIB/The Star
“Through domestic tourism, we can appreciate our own diversity while generating income for local communities,” he said.
The three-day event, which began on Friday, features 54 exhibitors including travel agencies, hotels, resorts, theme parks, tourist attractions, homestay operators and destination specialists.
Besides tourism packages and accommodation deals, craft producers and heritage cuisines are also showcased.
Yeoh said that the carnival was a meaningful platform bringing together Malaysians from all walks of life.
“It is not just an event; it is a celebration of our collective identity.
“When we travel locally, we rediscover new destinations, reconnect with our roots and savour the distinct flavours that define each state and our unity as Malaysians,” he said.
Yeoh thanked Star Media Group (SMG) for being an excellent partner in the nationwide campaign.
“Their reach, creativity and commitment to storytelling have helped amplify Tourism Malaysia’s message across platforms and communities,” he said.
Yeoh said the partnership had reignited domestic tourism while supporting local economies, paving the way for Visit Malaysia 2026, which would showcase the nation’s natural beauty, rich heritage and modern experiences to the world.
He said Malaysia recorded 260.1 million domestic trips with a total expenditure of RM106.7bil last year, a 25.7% increase from the previous year.
“In the first quarter of this year, domestic tourism flourished with 69.7 million trips, an 18.9% growth compared with the same period last year,” he said.
The Star Karnival Cuti-Cuti Malaysia followed earlier editions held in Pahang, the Klang Valley and Sarawak.
Hosting the fourth leg in Penang was fitting, Yeoh said, as the state, with its iconic nasi kandar and colourful murals, captured the essence of Malaysia’s diversity and enduring heritage.
He said the collaboration between Tourism Malaysia and SMG aimed to rekindle Malaysians’ interest in local travel and explore the country’s culture, heritage and creativity.
The carnival features cultural performances, traditional cuisines and artisanal crafts, offering visitors a taste of Malaysia’s unique and vibrant heritage.
Attractive local travel deals are also available exclusively at the event.
SMG’s group chief executive officer Chan Seng Fatt said the carnival was about rediscovering the culture, food and hidden gems in Malaysia’s own backyard.
“We are proud to partner with Tourism Malaysia in bringing this campaign to life, connecting Malaysians through shared stories and experiences that inspire pride and togetherness,” he said.
The carnival is open to the public with free admission, making it accessible to families, youth and the community at large.
For updates on upcoming locations and event highlights, follow The Star, mStar, Majoriti and Suria FM.
