PETALING JAYA: Efforts will be made to boost domestic travel by offering locals more immersive events and leisure experiences, says Tourism Malaysia.
This initiative follows a growing trend of Malaysians seeking meaningful experiences during their holidays, as seen in other parts of the world too, says the agency under the Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry.
“Malaysians are increasingly seeking short getaways, experiential travel, wellness tourism, food experiences, and event-based travel.
“Tourism Malaysia will strengthen its efforts to come up with such immersive tourism offerings to create compelling reasons for both domestic and international visitors to travel across Malaysia in conjunction with Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026).
“From concerts to festivals and lifestyle events to cultural celebrations, these events cater to all visitors while highlighting Malaysia’s rich cultural heritage, exclusive shopping experiences, diverse food and world-class entertainment,” the agency said.
Such tourism products will help create memorable experiences and boost the overall appeal of Malaysia’s tourism offerings to both domestic and international visitors.
Tourism Malaysia was asked to comment on the growth of domestic tourism, with concerts, events and sports tournaments proving to be major drivers for local travel.
The agency said international artistes such as Coldplay, Blackpink and Maroon 5 have attracted thousands of spectators, both domestic and international, to their concerts in Malaysia.
“Similarly, major sporting events, including the PETRONAS Grand Prix (MotoGP), have drawn hundreds of thousands of fans, thereby contributing substantially to Malaysia’s economic growth,” the agency added.
Soon, Malaysia will also host the Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix at the Sepang International Circuit from Oct 2 to 4, between the Azerbaijan and Singapore events.
Tourism Malaysia said domestic tourism has been key to resilience and growth in the tourism sector during challenging times.
“While global geopolitical developments, particularly the tensions in the Middle East, may influence international travel costs through higher fuel prices and airfares, these developments never hinder Malaysians from opting for domestic holidays as an alternative to overseas trips,” the agency said.
Among Tourism Malaysia’s upcoming events to boost tourism is the Year-End Sale Campaign.
“Domestic visitors can also look forward to the annual National Day and Malaysia Day celebrations, held on Aug 31 and Sept 16, respectively.
“These celebrations encourage domestic travel as Malaysians participate in festivities held across the country, while also providing international visitors with the opportunity to experience Malaysia’s patriotism, multicultural harmony, and vibrant community spirit,” the agency said.
Aside from events, Tourism Malaysia said Malaysia’s improved highway connectivity, expanding flight networks, digital travel planning and the availability of attractive travel packages have made domestic travel more convenient and accessible.
“The new Light Rail Transit (LRT) Shah Alam line, now in service, as well as the upcoming East Coast Rail Link (ECRL), not only allow visitors to commute easily but also enjoy the views of Malaysia’s city skylines and the beauty of rural sceneries,” the agency added.
