MALAYSIA’S TOURISM SECTOR GAINS MOMENTUM AS MITM TRAVEL FAIR 2026 OPENS WITH STRONG INDUSTRY SUPPORT

MALAYSIA’S TOURISM SECTOR GAINS MOMENTUM AS MITM TRAVEL FAIR 2026 OPENS WITH STRONG INDUSTRY SUPPORT

The Malaysian International Travel Fair (MITM) 2026 was officially opened today at the Mid Valley Exhibition Centre, reinforcing the country’s tourism recovery and signalling robust industry confidence ahead of Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026).

The three-day fair, running from 31 July to 2 August, marks the 24th edition of the annual travel expo and features 300 booths across 34 exhibitors, offering a wide range of domestic and international travel packages, airline promotions, and exclusive deals.

YBhg. Dato’ Yeoh Soon Hin, Deputy Chairman of Tourism Malaysia, officiated the event and underscored the importance of public-private collaboration in driving the nation’s tourism agenda.

“This impressive turnout is a testament to the unwavering dedication of the Malaysian Chinese Tourism Association (MCTA) in promoting Malaysia’s tourism offerings and providing meaningful business platforms for the industry,” said Dato’ Yeoh in his opening address.

He highlighted that Malaysia recorded 74.7 million domestic visitor arrivals in the first quarter of 2026, a 7.2% increase compared to the same period in 2025, reflecting sustained domestic confidence in local travel experiences.

Tourism Malaysia is participating in the fair for the second consecutive year through its Domestic Pavilion, a move Dato’ Yeoh described as reflective of the growing synergy between the public and private sectors in realising the goals of VM2026.

“Today’s travellers are increasingly seeking authentic, meaningful, and sustainable travel experiences. As industry players, we must continue to embrace innovation, digital transformation, and responsible tourism practices,” he added.

The government, he said, remains committed to supporting the sector through infrastructure investment, improved connectivity, visa facilitation, and digital services, alongside ongoing domestic campaigns such as Cuti-Cuti Malaysia and Destinasi Indah, Harga Rahmah.

In his welcoming remarks, MCTA National President Mr. Patrick Law said MITM has grown into a trusted brand in the regional travel fair landscape, with plans to expand to more states and host two editions in 2026 — the next scheduled for 5–7 March 2026.

Organising Chairman Mr. Leon Choy announced a RM15,000 cash voucher giveaway on a first-come, first-served basis, along with lucky draw prizes for fairgoers who purchase travel packages on-site. He also urged visitors to book only with licensed exhibitors to ensure reliable and trustworthy transactions.

“MITM offers a wide variety of travel packages tailored to every kind of traveller. Whether you’re seeking a relaxing beach escape, a thrilling adventure, or a deep dive into culture and heritage, you’ll find something here to inspire your next journey,” said Mr. Choy.

The fair has drawn participation from national tourism organisations, airlines, and financial partners, including the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture Malaysia (MOTAC), China Cultural Centre in Kuala Lumpur, Taiwan Tourism Administration, Tourism Promotions Board Philippines, Tourism Authority of Thailand, Bank of China Malaysia, China Southern Airlines, and StarDream Cruises.

MITM 2026 continues until 2 August 2026 at Mid Valley Exhibition Centre. Admission is open to the public.

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