Tiong officiates Visit Malaysia 2026 Bukit Bintang Star-Lit Street Festival

3 January 2026

KUALA LUMPUR: Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing officiated the Visit Malaysia 2026 – Bukit Bintang Star-Lit Street Festival, describing the initiative as an inclusive and community-driven approach to bringing tourism closer to the people.

In his Facebook post, he shared the event held in one of Kuala Lumpur’s most vibrant and iconic districts, transformed public spaces into platforms for culture, creativity and togetherness, allowing the spirit of Visit Malaysia 2026 to be experienced beyond formal tourism events.

“Bukit Bintang has always been a meeting point of diverse cultures and the pulse of urban life. By taking this festival to the streets, we are celebrating tourism in a way that is inclusive, creative and rooted in the community,” he said.

Tiong noted that modern tourism is no longer solely about destinations, but about meaningful experiences, genuine connections and authenticity. Events such as the Star-Lit Street Festival, he said, provide opportunities for artists, creative communities, local talents and visitors to interact, while showcasing Malaysia’s vibrant and dynamic diversity.

He added that the initiative also supports the city’s night-time economy, empowers local talent and creates platforms for young people to highlight their potential, in line with the principles of sustainable tourism where cultural, social and economic development progress together.

Tiong also expressed his appreciation to private sector players and community partners who spearheaded the organisation of the festival, emphasising that the success of Visit Malaysia 2026 depends on strong collaboration between the Government, industry stakeholders and the public.

“I encourage more fresh and high-impact initiatives to be introduced across the country to further strengthen our tourism ecosystem,” he said.

He thanked the organisers, strategic partners and members of the public who enlivened Bukit Bintang during the event, while extending New Year wishes for health, well-being and continued success to Malaysians as the country moves towards Visit Malaysia 2026.