Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim will officiate the ‘I LITE U’ event in Bukit Bintang on Jan 3, marking the national launch of Visit Malaysia Year 2026.
KUALA LUMPUR: The national launch of Visit Malaysia Year (VMY) 2026 will be marked by a dazzling ‘I LITE U’ ceremony in Bukit Bintang on Jan 3.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim is scheduled to officiate the opening ceremony in front of Pavilion Kuala Lumpur.
Oscar-winning actress Tan Sri Michelle Yeoh is also expected to attend in support of the national tourism campaign.
Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming said the event reflects the unity and shared aspirations of Malaysia MADANI.
“Bukit Bintang will shine brightly as Malaysia showcases its diversity, charm and cultural vibrancy to the world,” he said in a statement.
The national-level event is spearheaded by the Housing and Local Government Ministry in collaboration with the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture.
The Federal Territories Department and Kuala Lumpur City Hall are also involved.
The event will be broadcast live on national television stations to amplify the visibility of the VMY 2026 campaign.
Several major roads in the Bukit Bintang area will be temporarily closed on the day to facilitate a grand parade involving 20 contingents.
Live performances by renowned local artistes are also planned.
Nga said the ceremony is expected to attract a large turnout of both local and international visitors.
He invited Malaysians across the country to take part in the celebration.
Attendees are encouraged to use public transportation to ease traffic congestion.
Nga also reminded the public that the Community Service Order for littering offences will come into effect on Jan 1.
“I would like to remind all Malaysians to uphold public cleanliness and the city’s image,” he said.
Under the new regulation, offenders may face penalties including fines and mandatory street-cleaning duties.
He urged all participants and spectators to observe the law and play a collective role in maintaining cleanliness.
