Warmest greetings: Tiong (second from left), accompanied by Malaysia Airports managing director Datuk Mohd Izani Ghani (left), welcoming travellers arriving at KLIA Terminal 1. — YAP CHEE HONG/The Star
SEPANG: Dancers dazzled and free treats flowed as the first tourists of 2026 touched down in Malaysia, kicking off the Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026) campaign in festive style.
At Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) Terminal 1, arriving travellers were swept into a lively cultural welcome yesterday, with vibrant performances transforming the arrival hall into a showcase of Malaysian heritage moments after they stepped off their planes.
Tourists were also handed VM2026-themed goodie bags filled with souvenirs such as keychains, alongside snacks and vouchers from local brands and services.
Adding a sweet local touch, visitors were treated to free Musang King durian ice cream, giving many their first taste of Malaysia’s famed flavours.
Stealing the spotlight were VM2026’s Malayan sun bear mascots, Wira and Manja, who delighted travellers as they eagerly posed for photos with the adorable duo.
The KLIA celebration was part of a nationwide welcome, with similar ceremonies held simultaneously at 55 key entry points across all 13 states on Jan 1, marking the launch of the highly anticipated VM2026 campaign.
Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing was also at KLIA to personally greet visitors and distribute goodie bags, reaffirming the ministry’s commitment to make VM2026 a success.
“We want to show that Malaysia is a very friendly country and that our culture reflects a warm welcome to tourists from all over the world,” he said.
“This event is one of our commitments to welcoming visitors as part of VM2026.”
Among those charmed by the reception was Amandeep Arora, 42, from India, who is visiting her brother and sister-in-law in Malaysia.
“This is around my fourth time visiting Malaysia and I never get bored of coming here,” said the insurance agent.
“Being greeted with such a warm welcome and free goodies was unexpected and really enjoyable.”
Slimen Benrabah, 42, from France, said the ceremony felt especially meaningful as he plans to relocate to Malaysia with his family for work.
“I’ve been here three times before and was always welcomed by friendly people and amazing food,” said the IT consultant.
“That’s why I decided to move here permanently. Knowing that we are coming to live among Malaysians makes this welcome feel more personal and makes me love this country even more.”
For Paulina Browinska, 37, from Poland, the ceremony set a joyful tone for her family’s year-end trip around Asia.
“It’s such a warm and special start to our Malaysia tour. My kids love the mascots and were so excited to take photos with them. We’re heading to Kuala Lumpur next and I hope the rest of our trip will be just as welcoming.”
