PETALING JAYA: Oscar-winning actress Tan Sri Michelle Yeoh will join Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim at the national launch of Visit Malaysia 2026, set to take place in Bukit Bintang on Jan 3.
The I LITE U Ceremony, scheduled for 7.30pm in front of Pavilion Kuala Lumpur, will officially light up the city’s most famous shopping and entertainment district. The event is expected to attract a large turnout of locals and tourists.
The national-level launch is spearheaded by the Housing and Local Government Ministry, in collaboration with the Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry, the Federal Territories Department under the Prime Minister’s Department and Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL).
Several major roads around Bukit Bintang will be temporarily closed to make way for a grand parade involving 20 contingents, along with live performances by local artistes. The ceremony will also be broadcast live on national television.
With heavy traffic expected, the public has been advised to use public transport when heading to the area.
The launch is seen as a key curtain-raiser for Visit Malaysia 2026, which aims to boost tourist arrivals and tourism spending across the country. Bukit Bintang was chosen as the venue due to its status as one of Kuala Lumpur’s top attractions.
The public has also been reminded to maintain cleanliness during the event, as Malaysia prepares to welcome more visitors. From Jan 1, 2026, a Community Service Order for littering offences will come into effect, allowing offenders to be fined or ordered to carry out street-cleaning duties.
Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming said the Prime Minister will officiate the ceremony, while Michelle Yeoh’s presence reflects strong support for the national tourism campaign.
“Bukit Bintang will shine brightly as Malaysia showcases its diversity, charm and cultural vibrancy to the world. The event will be broadcast live to boost the visibility of Visit Malaysia 2026,” he said in the statement on Saturday (Dec 27).
Nga added that road closures were necessary to ensure smooth proceedings and urged Malaysians to join the celebrations and use public transport.
“As we prepare for the tourism year, I remind everyone to take care of public cleanliness and the city’s image, so visitors feel welcome in Malaysia,” he said, adding that strict action would be taken against littering once the new regulation comes into effect.
