SEPANG: The Tourism, Arts, and Culture Ministry is responsible for boosting tourist arrivals and generating more revenue through the Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026) campaign, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
Anwar, speaking at the campaign's launch today (Jan 6), playfully reminded Tourism Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing not to request additional funding.
"The four pillars of VM2026 are ecotourism and sustainability; modern attractions and innovations; cultural heritage and diversity; and the strength of our collaborations and partnerships.
"The campaign must proceed with roadshows and festivals organised at minimal cost.
"To the tourism minister, I must remind him: every time he sees me, he asks for more money.
"I told him his role is to bring in more revenue, not to ask for more funding," Anwar said.
"I also reminded him that his job is to reduce foreign travel while attracting more international tourists.
"But it seems our tourism minister has been travelling a bit too much himself.
"Just joking. Don't take it seriously," he said, drawing laughter from the audience at the event at MAB Engineering Complex here.
Anwar had announced, during the tabling of the 2025 Budget, that nearly RM550 million had been allocated to boost tourism promotion and activities for VM2026.
The allocation covers the organisation of cultural activities, tourism events, and initiatives to improve flight access to Malaysia.
It also includes efforts to economically empower communities through the arts, such as promoting local handicrafts and batik.
The campaign follows the cancellation of Visit Malaysia Year 2020 due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
With VM2026, Malaysia aims to attract 35.6 million international tourists and generate RM147.1 billion in revenue.