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SEPUTEH Member of Parliament Teresa Kok has challenged PAS and UMNO Youth chief Datuk Dr Muhamad Akmal Saleh to put forward substantive alternatives to boost tourism, rather than merely opposing entertainment-driven initiatives linked to Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026).
Her remarks follow objections from PAS and Akmal to the proposed Rain Rave Water Music Festival 2026 in Bukit Bintang, a flagship attraction under the VM2026 campaign.
Teresa said both parties must present viable proposals capable of drawing international visitors and stimulating domestic economic activity if they disagree with the organisation of such events.
She added that it was perplexing that vocal critics of tourism-focused entertainment programmes had failed to offer any constructive alternatives to advance the country’s tourism industry.
“PAS and Dr. Akmal need to be realistic. The majority of foreign tourists visit Malaysia to relax, seek entertainment, and experience the vibrancy of urban culture. They do not come to be bound by excessive moral restrictions.
“If they do not agree with the organisation of street concerts or music festivals, then they are responsible for presenting other programmes that can attract millions of tourists,” she said in a Facebook post.
Teresa also raised concerns over PAS’s track record in tourism management, citing what she described as a decline in the sector in Langkawi, which she argued should not serve as a national model.
“Do not turn Malaysia into a country with a sluggish tourism sector like what has happened in Langkawi due to narrow policies and image.
“Our focus now should be economic growth and the success of VM2026, not politics of opposition based on race and religion that only drive away investors and tourists,” she said.
Earlier, Selangor PAS Youth chief Sukri Omar reportedly opposed the Rain Rave Water Music Festival 2026 on the grounds that it did not reflect Malaysia’s identity, while Akmal questioned the appropriateness of proceeding with the event at a time when the government should be exercising fiscal restraint. - May 3, 2026