A selection of bitesize news stories currently making the headlines in Malaysia:
Malaysia’s Tourism Sector Breaks Records in 2025, Targets New Milestones in 2026
Malaysia’s tourism industry has set new benchmarks in 2025, welcoming an astounding 42 million visitors, far surpassing expectations. This remarkable achievement has encouraged the government to consider raising its target for Visit Malaysia 2026. With the momentum of last year’s success, the country is preparing for even bigger growth in the coming year, eager to solidify its place as a key player in global tourism.
(source: Travel and Tour World)
Tourism Malaysia and Aeon Team Up to Promote VM2026
Tourism Malaysia has announced a strategic collaboration with AEON CO. (M) BHD. (AEON), to support the implementation of the Year of Visiting Malaysia 2026 (VM2026) campaign. This collaboration aims to intensify efforts to promote Malaysia as a dynamic tourism, shopping and lifestyle destination through various promotional activities and exclusive offers to domestic and international travellers at selected shopping centres throughout the country.
(source: Tourism Malaysia)
New Flight Route Connects KL to Jinan in China
Tourism Malaysia recently welcomed the inaugural flight from Jinan to Kuala Lumpur by Shandong Airlines, marking a significant milestone in strengthening air connectivity between China and Malaysia. Officially commencing on 19 January 2026, the new route operates seven days a week using a Boeing 737 aircraft with a capacity of 176 passengers. The service is designed to meet the growing demand for both leisure and business travel, while enhancing people-to-people exchanges between the two countries.
(source: Tourism Malaysia)
Penang Roadshow to India Drives Momentum for Visit Malaysia 2026 Campaign
Guided by the theme ‘Simply Penang’, the recent Penang Convention & Exhibition Bureau (PCEB) led the 9th edition of the Penang Roadshow to India 2026, reaffirming Penang’s long-standing commitment to the Indian market and strengthening bilateral ties in tourism and business events. Taking place from 19 to 27 January 2026, the roadshow covered four major Indian cities — Mumbai (19 January), New Delhi (21 January), Kochi (23 January) and Chennai (27 January). The programme engaged more than 800 qualified buyers and over 100 media representatives across the four cities, connecting Penang directly with decision-makers across the leisure, corporate, incentive and meetings sectors.
(source: HospiBuz)
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