Malaysia must prioritise tourist safety as a national goal for Visit Malaysia 2026, with calls for better infrastructure and a strong safety culture.
KUALA LUMPUR: Ensuring tourist safety must be a national priority as Malaysia prepares for Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026).
Alliance for a Safe Community chairman Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye said a safe and trustworthy travel experience is essential for Malaysia’s global reputation.
He noted tourism is a cornerstone of the national economy, providing livelihoods for millions.
“However, no amount of pristine beaches, vibrant cities or cultural richness can compensate for a perception – or worse, a reality – of unsafe travel conditions,” Lee said in a statement.
He warned that news of accidents spreads swiftly and can undermine tourism aspirations ahead of the major campaign.
Lee urged authorities to elevate safety as the nation’s top priority for a successful tourism industry.
He called for a nationwide shift towards cultivating a strong safety culture.
This requires stringent enforcement of traffic and maritime laws alongside public education campaigns.
Lee said robust infrastructure investment is also needed, including upgrades to high-risk roads and improved maritime safety equipment.
“The success of VM2026 hinges not just on marketing brilliance, but on the tangible reality of a safe and secure environment,” he added.
Lee stated Malaysia must strive towards “Vision Zero,” where all preventable accidents are prevented.
Tourism Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing said more major tourism events will be held beyond Kuala Lumpur to spur economic growth in other states.
Tiong said Malaysia is finalising a nationwide calendar of major events for VM2026.
The campaign targets 47 million international tourist arrivals and RM329 billion in tourism receipts.
