Visit Malaysia 2026 Kicks Off with Spectacular New Year Countdown Festival at Pavilion Kuala Lumpur

KUALA LUMPUR, JAN 01: The Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026) campaign officially commenced with a dazzling New Year’s Eve Countdown Festival at Pavilion Kuala Lumpur, marking a vibrant start to Malaysia’s efforts to attract 43 million international visitors and reinforce its position as a premier global tourist destination.

The festival, attended by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing, and Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Sabah and Sarawak) Datuk Mustapha Sakmud, featured an extraordinary blend of pyromusical fireworks, laser projections, and 3D anamorphic visuals, creating a truly immersive experience as 2026 dawned.

Adding to the celebratory atmosphere were Wira and Manja, the sun bear mascots of VM2026, symbolizing Malaysia’s cultural identity, warmth, and uniqueness. The event also showcased an array of cultural and entertainment performances by renowned artists including Shila Amzah, Aina Abdul, Belle Sisoski, Vanessa Reynauld, Kidd Santhe, The Kuans, and KLP48, integrating both traditional and contemporary musical elements.

In his statement, Minister Tiong emphasized that the festival symbolized the campaign’s goal of igniting momentum for VM2026 while inviting the world to experience Malaysia’s culture, creativity, and hospitality. “Malaysia is fully prepared to showcase its unique culture and warm hospitality. This marks a strong start toward our target of 43 million international visitors,” he said.

The celebrations extended beyond Pavilion Kuala Lumpur with side events across the capital, including the VM2026 Bazaar at Pavilion Bukit Jalil and the VM2026 Arts and Culture Exhibition at Fahrenheit 88, as well as food bazaars and street performances in Bukit Bintang, giving visitors an opportunity to engage with Malaysia’s rich heritage and creative talent.

Supported by Tourism Malaysia and Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) as main partners, alongside other cultural agencies, the festival successfully attracted thousands of local and international visitors, marking a memorable launch for the VM2026 campaign and further elevating Malaysia’s presence on the global tourism stage.