Malaysians have been urged to be more welcoming and courteous towards visitors as the country steps up preparations for Visit Malaysia 2026.
Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing said the reminder followed feedback received from tourists, some of whom reported experiencing impatience and unfriendly behaviour during their visits.
While acknowledging that promotional efforts for Visit Malaysia 2026 have so far delivered encouraging results, Tiong said improving hospitality on the ground remains essential to ensuring a positive experience for visitors.
“I call on all Malaysians to work together to show that our country is a friendly, welcoming and culturally rich destination,” he said, adding that hospitality plays a key role in shaping how tourists perceive Malaysia.
Tiong also highlighted concerns over cleanliness and waste management, warning that poor standards could undermine the country’s image ahead of the major tourism campaign. He stressed that maintaining public spaces should be a shared responsibility among local communities, authorities and businesses.
He said efforts to improve cleanliness would be supported through health promotion and early education initiatives within communities, including among children, to foster long-term awareness and responsibility.
Under Visit Malaysia 2026, Malaysia aims to attract 43 million international visitor arrivals, positioning the country as a leading destination for global travellers.
