SIBU: Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing (pic) has called on all Malaysians to showcase racial unity and harmony as the nation’s main strength in attracting tourists in conjunction with Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026).
He added that Malaysia’s multiracial society should highlight the uniqueness of their respective cultures, heritage and cuisines without politicising issues related to race or religion.
“We want to prove to the world that Malaysia is a plural society that lives in unity and harmony. This is our strength in attracting tourists,” he told reporters here yesterday.
Tiong, who is Dudong assemblyman, was met after presenting notices and certificates of appointment for community leaders and village chiefs in the Dudong state constituency, reported Bernama.
He said that his ministry is targeting more than 40 million international tourist arrivals under the VM2026 campaign.
He also called on state governments, local communities and youth groups to work together to promote tourism products in their respective states.
According to him, the Malayan sun bear mascot chosen for the campaign symbolises a local species and reflects the values of friendliness, unity and harmony of the Malaysian people.
“This mascot carries the message that Malaysia is a friendly, safe and united destination.”
