Malaysia Dedicates RM935 Million for Tourism Enhancement, Extends Visit Malaysia Campaign Until 2027
Malaysia has announced a substantial RM935 million (approx. US$210 million) funding for tourism and culture in its recently proposed Budget 2027. This comes along with a significant extension of the nation’s flagship Visit Malaysia campaign until 2027. The declaration was made by Prime Minister and Finance Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim during the presentation of Budget 2027 in Parliament on October 7, 2026.
Among the key measures, the government has increased the duty-free shopping limit at the resort islands of Langkawi and Labuan from the earlier limit to RM10,000 per visitor, subject to a minimum stay of 48 hours. This initiative is aimed at promoting extended visits and increased tourist expenditure. Additionally, new International and Charter Flight Matching Grants will be launched to enhance direct air connections from China, India, Central Asia, and Europe. This scheme will also be extended to cruise ships, ferries, and tour buses.
The budget also sets aside funds for improvements to jetty infrastructure and potential UNESCO heritage sites such as Danum Valley, Bujang Valley, and Taman Negara Pahang. However, industry experts have warned that merely attracting more visitors will not ensure profitability. They highlight infrastructure inadequacies, a lack of luxury accommodation, and escalating operating costs as critical challenges that need to be addressed for sustainable, long-term growth.
Source: BusinessToday Malaysia