300 programmes scheduled during VMY2026

1 January 2026

KOTA KINABALU: Malaysia’s VM2026 campaign has officially unveiled its extensive event calendar, featuring over 300 programmes and activities scheduled throughout the year. The initiatives aim to highlight Malaysia’s rich arts, culture, heritage, and ethnic diversity through traditional celebrations held nationwide. Key events include the VM2026 Chinese New Year Festival, Hari Raya Aidilfitri Festival, Deepavali Festival, Christmas Fest, and indigenous festivities such as Pesta Kaamatan (Tadau Kaamatan) and Gawai Festival.

Minister of Tourism, Culture, and Environment, Datuk Jafry Ariffin said the campaign aspires to position Malaysia as a leading global tourism destination, with a target of attracting 43 million international visitors in 2026. This goal aligns with ongoing efforts to bolster the tourism sector as a major driver of the country’s economic growth. The positive momentum is reflected in international visitor arrivals, which reached 38.3 million from January to November 2025, demonstrating Malaysia’s increasing appeal to tourists worldwide.

"VM2026 is not merely a tourism campaign, but rather a framework for national coordination. The symbolic celebration in Sabah serves as a vital platform to assess the state's readiness, encompassing aspects such as infrastructure, hospitality, community engagement, and environmental sustainability, as part of preparations for the Visit Sabah Year 2027," he said. 

The organisation of this national-level celebration was realised through close collaboration between the state government, airlines, airport authorities, industry players in tourism, and strategic partners. Contributions included logistical support, venue provision, and joint organisation with strategic partners and sponsors such as KePKAS, Sabah Tourism Board, Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad (MAHB), BOH, Express Rail Link Sdn. Bhd. (ERL), Gamuda Land, Grab Malaysia, Guardian, Hock Kee F&B Holding Sdn. Bhd., Malaysia Healthcare Travel Council (MHTC), MAMEE, MITEC, Oriental Coffee, ParagonCorp MY, Photobook Charm, and Syarikat Permainan Malaysia Sdn. Bhd. 

Sponsorships in the form of vouchers, food and beverage products, souvenirs, and discounts at various attractions have added value to visitors’ experiences, reflecting Malaysia’s preparedness to welcome travellers from around the world.

Under the theme "Surreal Experiences," VM2026 will feature a vibrant series of festivals, cultural exhibitions, community events, and celebrations designed to captivate audiences and showcase Malaysia’s diverse heritage. These programmes aim to create memorable experiences that will further elevate the country’s reputation as a premier tourism hub.

As the campaign progresses, Malaysia is expected to see a rise in visitor numbers, increased employment opportunities, and an enhanced international profile. Additionally, VM2026 is anticipated to benefit local communities and stimulate economic activity across various sectors, including transportation, retail, handicrafts, and small and medium enterprises (SMEs), reaffirming Malaysia’s status as a key player in regional tourism.