KUALA LUMPUR: Revellers gathered at Bukit Bintang to join Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim in ushering in the New Year.
Locals and tourists alike thronged the bustling heart of the city for the Visit Malaysia 2026 countdown festival.
The festival marked a celebratory opening to the tourism year ahead, reaffirming Malaysia’s readiness to welcome the world in 2026.
The crowd was treated to performances by local artistes including cultural showcases, further adding to the celebratory atmosphere of the night.
VM2026 featured cultural showcases, hands-on activities and showcased Malaysian cuisines.
Also present was Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Tiong King Sing, who said the celebration was a symbolic event to ignite the momentum for VM2026 while welcoming the world to our shores.
“Malaysia is now fully ready to showcase its unique culture, creativity and the warm hospitality of its people.
“It marks a strong head start towards our aspiration of 43 million international visitor arrivals, further solidifying our position on the global tourism map,” he said.
Among those who witnessed the countdown and grand fireworks were locals Zephyr Tan, 29, and Zoey Hwang, 28.
The pair braved traffic to travel to the heart of the city to join in the celebrations.
“We came down here just to watch the fireworks and the countdown celebration,” said Tan, an engineer.
The pair hoped that 2026 would bring greater political stability and progress for the nation.
“We hope that our country will improve overall, through more stable politics and a stronger economy,” he added.
He also wished that the new year would bring good health, happiness and better income.
Tax agent Syakirin Sabudin, 30, said he came to enjoy the bustling atmosphere and live music performances along the streets.
“I am just walking around to enjoy the New Year’s Eve celebrations. I am also looking forward to having a day off tomorrow.
“I wish that Malaysia will develop further as a country while ensuring that we have a cohesive society,” he added.
IT executive Yoga Malar Atlee, 36, said this was the first time she brought her two children to see the New Year fireworks display.
“I have always wanted to bring my children downtown to see the fireworks while ushering in the new year with others who have gathered here.
“It will definitely be an unforgettable experience for us,” she said. She also hoped for Malaysia to remain a harmonious and peaceful nation.
“We are a country free from war and I hope that we can maintain peace within our country forever.”
Dutch tourists Amber Janssen, 23, and Melissa Baker, 24, were among the thousands who had gathered to enjoy the lively festive atmosphere.
“We hope to walk about to see what Malaysia has to offer and to watch the fireworks with the multitude of people here,” Janssen said.
The pair said they hoped that the new year would bring peace and personal success.
