KUALA LUMPUR: Promotional strategies to ensure the success of Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026) must be detailed according to the suitability of target groups to ensure the campaign is effective, says Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.
The Deputy Prime Minister said marketing approaches should not be generic.
“It must be followed up with subsequent actions. It cannot rely on a single form of publicity and must be aligned with the respective target groups,” he told reporters after flagging off participants of the Malaysia Night Music Run.
On the event, Ahmad Zahid, who is also VM2026 Cabinet committee chairman, noted that it had attracted more than 5,000 runners, exceeding the initial target of 3,000 participants.
He said sporting events such as marathons are important in attracting foreign tourists.
“We hope to see many international participants in sporting events like this. With good publicity, we will see an increase in foreign tourists,” he said.
The Deputy Prime Minister also commended the Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry and Tourism Malaysia for organising familiarisation trips, including for retailers, airlines and media practitioners, to strengthen tourism promotion in a comprehensive manner.
At another event, Ahmad Zahid said close cooperation between non-governmental organisations, the private sector and other institutions is the best model for building a society grounded in values and spiritual well-being, Bernama reported.
He said dakwah (missionary work) and community development are not the responsibility of a single body but should be carried out collectively in a spirit of mutual support.
“A community that moves together, complements each other and does not harbour suspicion,” he said at the launch of the “Doa Dari Hati” programme.
