Budget 2027: RM935 mln for tourism, culture as Visit Malaysia campaign extended to 2027

The Visit Malaysia's Malayan Sun Bear mascots, Wira and Manja, featured at the Visit Malaysia 2026 Countdown Festival at Pavilion Kuala Lumpur on Jan 1, 2026.

By Karen Bong

KUCHING, Oct 9: The federal government has allocated RM935 million for tourism and culture under Budget 2027, following the extension of the Visit Malaysia campaign to next year.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said the allocation would support tourism promotion, improve facilities, strengthen cultural and heritage activities, and enhance Malaysia’s appeal as an international tourism destination.

Among the initiatives are incentive grants for industry players to promote and organise tourism events, as well as upgrades to tourism facilities, including jetties and heritage sites with potential for recognition by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO).

The sites identified include Danum Valley in Sabah, Bujang Valley in Kedah and Pahang National Park.

“Arts, culture and heritage will also be promoted through a Cultural Festival held in conjunction with the 2027 SEA Games, while continuing to support local practitioners in traditional crafts, weaving and batik,” he said when tabling the Budget 2027 in Parliament today.

To improve international connectivity, Anwar added that International and Charter Flight Matching Grants will be provided to encourage the establishment of new direct flight routes from China, India, Central Asia and Europe.

“The scope of the grants will also be expanded to cover cruise ships, ferries and tour buses bringing international tourists to Malaysia,” he said.

In a further move to boost tourism on the duty-free islands of Langkawi and Labuan, the duty-free shopping allowance for visitors and tourists will be raised to RM10,000, subject to a minimum stay of 48 hours.

More locally made products from Langkawi will also be exempted from import duties to support local entrepreneurs.

Addressing payment convenience at resort destinations, Anwar said QR code payments would be expanded to 15 locations, including resort islands, next year.

The initiative aims to address difficulties faced by residents and tourists in accessing ATMs, while helping small traders avoid losing sales when customers do not have cash.

Anwar also stressed the need for Malaysia to become a preferred destination for major international events.

Under the proposed measures, rebates will be given to event organisers holding events at venues with a capacity of at least 10,000 spectators.

“Tax incentives for international-standard incentive trips, conferences and trade exhibitions will also be extended until the 2030 year of assessment,” he said.

The measures form part of the government’s efforts to strengthen Malaysia’s tourism offerings, support local businesses and attract more international visitors through improved connectivity, facilities and events. — DayakDaily