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MALAYSIA welcomed 24.5 million foreign tourists in the first seven months of 2025, a 16.8 per cent increase compared to 21 million during the same period last year, according to Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing.
Speaking at the official launch of the Malaysia Cultural Festival (Festival Budaya Malaysia) at Titiwangsa Lake Gardens in Kuala Lumpur on Friday evening, Tiong credited the Ministry of Finance and the broader government's commitment to strengthening the tourism sector as the key driver behind the increase.
“Despite facing resource constraints and limited funding, we will continue to seek innovative approaches to ensure that every programme delivers the greatest impact for the people and the nation,” he said.
The event was attended by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar, Deputy Tourism Minister Khairul Firdaus Akbar Khan, and Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Federal Territories) Datuk Seri Dr Zaliha Mustafa.
Reflecting on his recent visits abroad, Tiong shared that international audiences consistently recognise Malaysia as a nation rich in cultural diversity and multi-ethnic heritage.
“This is Malaysia’s true strength—our cultural wealth is not only a source of national pride but a treasure admired by all.
“The diversity of our people and traditions gives Malaysia a distinctive identity, one that cannot be replicated by any other country,” he said.
Tiong emphasised that Malaysian culture extends far beyond arts and heritage, forming the very foundation of the nation's identity and strength.
“More than that, it serves as a ‘people-to-people’ bridge across borders, connecting civilisations and uniting hearts around the world through friendship, unity and mutual respect,” he added.
On the economic front, Tiong highlighted that this cultural richness presents enormous potential for growth—not only by strengthening the tourism industry, but also by expanding traditional craft businesses, promoting local cuisine, and elevating the performing arts as globally marketable assets.
The Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture is expected to roll out further initiatives aligned with these goals in the coming months, aiming to maintain the momentum of growth and cultural diplomacy. - September 14, 2025
