Sandakan Airport Welcomes VMY2026

1 January 2026

SANDAKAN: In conjunction with Visit Malaysia Year 2026 (VMY2026), Sandakan Airport hosted a vibrant and heartwarming welcome event for arriving visitors. The airport was a hub of excitement with Mohamed Sharir, Deputy Senior Director of Tourism Malaysia’s Strategic Planning Division led a team to welcome the passengers that disembarked at the airport.

He was accompanied by Tay Shu Lan, Senior Deputy Chief Executive Officer; Wilson Thomas, Vice President of the Sandakan Municipal Council; Mohamed Nazri Mat Khalib, Airport Manager of MAHB; and Jessie Chin from the Sandakan Association of Tourism Sabah and Kinabatangan Corridor.

They gathered to greet the arriving passengers from Kuala Lumpur, Tawau, and Lahad Datu via Malaysia Airlines and AirAsia.

With warm smiles and cheerful greetings, the VIPs extended a heartfelt welcome, making each passenger feel special and appreciated. As a token of hospitality and goodwill, they handed out goodie bags, adding a sense of joy and celebration to the arrival experience. The lively atmosphere was enhanced with the presence of the VMY 2026 Mascot.

This will promote Sandakan’s rich historical and natural heritage as well as the environment, inspiring visitors to explore the region’s forests, wildlife, and unique cultural sites.

The welcoming event not only underscored Malaysia’s dedication to making VMY2026 a memorable year for tourists but also set a positive, welcoming tone for what promises to be an exciting year of tourism growth.