VM2026 Campaign Extended Till End Of 2027 - DPM Ahmad Zahid

PUTRAJAYA, April 6 (Bernama) -- The second meeting of the Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026) National Main Committee has agreed to extend the implementation of VM2026 until the end of 2027.

Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said the decision would, however, be brought before the Cabinet for consideration and approval.

"This decision is taken to enable Malaysia to adopt a proactive approach in strengthening promotional strategies, showcasing the country as a safe, stable and competitive destination, as well as seizing opportunities from changing tourist travel patterns.

"This measure also takes into account current developments, including the conflict that broke out on Feb 28, 2026, in West Asia, which has had a significant impact on regional stability and affected the global tourism sector,” he said in a statement after chairing the second VM2026  National Main Committee meeting here today.

Ahmad Zahid, who is also the VM2026 National Main Committee chairman, said the projection showed that tourist arrivals from West Asia could decline by 11 to 27 per cent.

"This has affected tourism hotspots in Asia and ASEAN (Southeast Asian Nations). This conflict has also disrupted international flight routes, increasing travel costs due to rising fuel prices and transportation costs.

"This situation has also reduced tourist confidence, which is expected to have implications for global tourism flow in the near future,” he said.

As one of the national agendas, Ahmad Zahid said the campaign aims to increase tourism revenue, strengthen Malaysia's competitiveness in the tourism industry, and position the sector as one of the main contributors to the country's Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

This committee comprises six working committees led by the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, the Ministry of Communications, the Ministry of Housing and Local Government and the Ministry of Transport, with members from various relevant government agencies.

"Each ministry and agency can present their programme achievements and planning activities in conjunction with the VM2026 campaign,” he said.

He said the government remains committed to ensuring VM2026 is implemented holistically and effectively, with each playing its role in an integrated manner.

"This effort aims to strengthen strategic cooperation, attract more visitors, increase the length of stay and tourist spending, and highlight Malaysia as a safe, stable and competitive (holiday) destination,” he said.

-- BERNAMA