Festive Welcome Sets the Tone for Visit Malaysia 2026

17 February 2026

KOTA KINABALU:Travellers disembarking at Kota Kinabalu International Airport (KKIA) received a warm and unexpected welcome this afternoon, complete with complimentary gift bags and an energetic lion dance performance to mark the occasion.

The Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026) campaign welcoming committee headed by Datuk Jafry Ariffin the Minister of Tourism Culture and Environment showcased the Chinese New Year atmosphere with a series of festive engagements for both domestic and international visitors.

The initiatives showcased Malaysia’s rich multicultural heritage while reaffirming the nation’s reputation for warm hospitality, vibrant celebrations and cultural inclusivity.

The welcoming ceremony at Kota Kinabalu International Airport (KKIA), underscored the State Government’s strong commitment to the success of VM2026.

The Minister personally greeted arriving visitors with mandarin oranges, a traditional symbol of good fortune and well-being, along with Visit Malaysia 2026 souvenirs.

The event was attended by representatives of (MAHB) and key stakeholders from Sabah’s tourism industry, reflecting robust public–private collaboration in enhancing the visitor experience.

Simultaneous welcoming ceremonies were also held at 13 entry points and strategic locations nationwide, signalling a coordinated national effort to drive momentum for the country’s flagship tourism campaign.

Celebrations were further enlivened by a traditional Yee Sang tossing ceremony, a cultural highlight of Chinese New Year symbolising unity, prosperity and shared abundance.

Visitors enjoyed a vibrant showcase of Malaysian traditional attire representing the country’s diverse cultural tapestry, followed by an energetic lion dance performance synonymous with the festive season.

Adding to the atmosphere, the official Visit Malaysia 2026 mascots, Wira and Manja, appeared in specially designed festive attire, delighting visitors and creating engaging photo opportunities that enhanced the overall arrival experience.

The Sabah celebrations were made possible through close collaboration and sponsorship from state and corporate partners, including (MAHB),Sabahtravel.com, North Borneo Cruise, Borenos Fried Chicken,

Adabi and Spritzer.

Contributions ranging from travel vouchers and attraction discounts to food, beverages and souvenirs further enriched the arrival experience, while showcasing Malaysia’s warmth, harmony and diverse tourism offerings.

These Chinese New Year airport activations form part of Tourism Malaysia’s broader VM2026 strategy to elevate first-point-of-contact experiences, strengthen destination branding and position Malaysia as a welcoming, safe and culturally rich destination throughout the year.

Festive engagements at international gateways also play a vital role in creating positive first impressions and encouraging sustained travel interest.

Through such initiatives, Tourism Malaysia continues to enhance the country’s global tourism profile while celebrating its multicultural identity, in support of Visit Malaysia 2026 and the long-term sustainable growth of the tourism sector.