panorama destination

panorama destination

VM2020 Launched, Targets 30 Million Arrivals
07 January 2020 | Written by Chris Alexander

On January 1st, Malaysia officially launched the Visit Malaysia 2020 (VM2020) campaign, during a range of celebratory events held in locations across the country. Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad led the festivities at one such party in Dataran Merdeka, where he took the opportunity to announce government targets of 30 million international arrivals for the year ahead, expected to generate RM100 billion for the nation’s economy.

In Pahang, thousands of people gathered to welcome the New Year and the launch of the new Nite Zoo and Pahang level VM2020, while in Melaka, more than 5,000 people attended “Melaka Coundown Fiesta 2019” as well as “Visit Truly Asia Malaysia 2020” Melaka level at Menara Taming Sari, Bandar Hilir. Visitors were entertained with traditional dances, fireworks and a countdown to the New Year. The state government took the opportunity to launch their 2020 Annual Calendar of Events for Melaka.

In Johor, 5,000 more people flooded Dataran Marina Harbour in Iskandar Puteri, for NYE celebrations and to launch the twin campaigns of VM2020 and Visit Johor Year 2020. In Penang, State Tourism, Arts, Culture and and Heritage Committee chairman Yeoh Soon Hin launched the 2020 new year celebration and VM2020 at The Top Penang at Komtar. In a speech to the assembled crowds, he described Penang as being among the best holiday destinations in Asia, stating that the government would focus on promoting its unique culture, heritage, food and beautiful beaches as part of VM2020.

In Terengganu, Mega Visit Malaysia was launched as a symbol of support by the state government for VM2020. Apart from introducing new products of Terengganu, the event was also enlivened with the presence of Terengganu icons, among them Terengganu FC players and the Terengganu Cycling Team.

The Visit Malaysia 2020 campaign sets out to showcase the very best of what Malaysia has to offer, bringing the nation’s best and lesser-known locations to the attention of the international travelling community. According to the VM2020 website, 2020 is set to be an event-packed year, as Malaysians nationwide “reflect and celebrate all their successes and challenges in transforming a once colonial land into a thriving, multi-cultural and dynamic country.”

As part of VM2020, Malaysia has identified China, Japan and United Kingdom as source markets for special focus.