KUALA LUMPUR: Tourist safety must be elevated to a national priority as Malaysia prepares for Visit Malaysia 2026, says Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye.
The Alliance for a Safe Community chairman said a safe, seamless and trustworthy travel experience is essential to strengthening Malaysia’s global reputation as a leading tourist destination.
“Tourism is a cornerstone of our economy, providing livelihoods for millions and showcasing the country's beauty and hospitality to the world.
“However, no amount of pristine beaches, vibrant cities or cultural richness can compensate for the perception or reality of unsafe travel conditions," he said when contacted on Thursday (Dec 25).
Lee cautioned that reports of accidents, whether fatal road crashes or maritime tragedies, spread quickly and could undermine confidence among potential visitors.
As the country prepares to welcome tourists for Visit Malaysia 2026, Lee said safety on roads and at sea must be ensured through meticulous planning and firm action.
He urged the Government and relevant agencies to make safety a non-negotiable priority in planning, execution and daily operations, stressing that it is the bedrock of a successful tourism industry.
He called for the cultivation of a nationwide safety culture, supported by consistent and uncompromising enforcement of traffic and maritime safety laws, including on speeding, drunk driving, seatbelt and helmet use, vessel seaworthiness, passenger limits and lifejacket requirements.
Lee also called for robust investments in infrastructure, including upgrades to high-risk road sections, improved lighting, signage and pedestrian facilities, as well as enhanced maritime navigation aids, safety equipment standards and port facilities.
"Sustained education and awareness campaigns targeting drivers, riders, passengers, boat operators and tourists are also essential to promote responsible behaviour and adherence to safety protocols," he added.
Safety should be integrated into Visit Malaysia 2026 campaigns through a parallel national initiative that highlights safety measures and infrastructure improvements and engages tourism operators and local communities as partners in promoting safe practices.
“The success of Visit Malaysia 2026 hinges not just on marketing brilliance, but on the tangible reality of a safe and secure environment,” he said, adding that preventable incidents could erode tourism aspirations.
He called for a commitment to a “Vision Zero” approach, in which all preventable accidents are eliminated.
“Let us act decisively, collaboratively and with urgency to make Malaysia truly safe for our people and our visitors,” he said.
