Malaysia recorded 10.6 million international visitor arrivals in Q1 2026, up 5.4%, as tourism continued to drive economic growth.
PETALING JAYA: Malaysia recorded 10.6 million international visitor arrivals in the first quarter of 2026, an increase of 5.4% compared with 10.1 million arrivals during the same period last year, as the tourism sector continued its recovery momentum.
The Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry said the industry’s contribution to the national economy had also shown steady growth, increasing from RM271.9 billion, or 14.9% of gross domestic product (GDP), in 2023 to RM291.9 billion, or 15.1% of GDP, in 2024.
“For 2025, the contribution of the tourism sector is expected to continue rising to between 15.1% and 15.4% of GDP, reflecting the recovery and continued growth of the tourism industry,” the ministry said in a written parliamentary reply.
The ministry said the country’s top tourist source markets continued to be led by regional countries, with Singapore recording 5.1 million arrivals, followed by China (1.4 million), Indonesia (1.0 million), Thailand (600,000), and Brunei (400,000) over the three-year period.
To maintain the sector’s growth trajectory, the ministry said it would continue implementing targeted promotional strategies and strengthening collaborations with key industry players.
“The ministry, together with its agencies, will ensure the momentum of tourism growth remains sustainable through targeted promotions, strategic cooperation with airlines, tourism operators and digital platforms, as well as market activation through sales missions and participation in international exhibitions,” it said.
The ministry added that it would focus on developing high-value tourism products to attract quality visitors and increase tourist spending.
“These include ecotourism, health tourism, heritage tourism and unique off-the-beaten-track experiences, while strengthening the digital ecosystem, ensuring seamless travel experiences, and implementing incentives and facilitation measures for the industry,” it said.
The initiatives, it said, were aimed at improving Malaysia’s competitiveness, attracting investment and ensuring the country remained a preferred destination for international travellers.
