‘Kopitiam’ aroma brings Malaysian warmth to ITB China 2026 in Shanghai

Tiong (right) during a visit to one of the exhibitors at the Malaysia Pavilion in conjunction with ITB China 2026 in Shanghai.

By DayakDaily Team

KUCHING, May 27: A lively “kopitiam” area filled with the aroma of nasi lemak and traditional local kuih has become a standout attraction at ITB China 2026 in Shanghai, creating a warm Malaysian atmosphere that evokes familiar hospitality and draws visitors into the country’s cultural charm from the moment they step into the Malaysia Pavilion.

In a post shared on his social media, Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture Dato Sri Tiong King Sing said the Malaysia Pavilion features a strong line-up this year, with nearly 60 exhibitors participating.

During his visit on Tuesday (May 26) to officiate the opening of the pavilion, he also witnessed the exchange of a memorandum of understanding between Malaysia’s Hwajing Travel & Tours and China’s Adora Cruises.

“The agreement marks an important milestone for the development of Malaysia’s cruise tourism sector,” he said.

Tiong also met representatives from the tourism boards of Selangor, Sabah and Melaka, as well as the Islamic Tourism Centre, hotel operators, Malaysia My Second Home (MM2H) agents, travel agencies, wellness organisations, airlines, and partners promoting Sarawak handicrafts.

“I could clearly feel their sincerity and energy in promoting Malaysian tourism,” he commended.

The pavilion, he added, is designed not only to showcase products but also to deliver an immersive Malaysian experience, with the kopitiam-themed area serving as a cultural focal point.

He also visited the Huawei booth, where he was briefed on the use of artificial intelligence to integrate travel-related information, including transport, accommodation, food, and tourism attractions, into a smartphone ecosystem aimed at making trip planning to Malaysia more seamless for Chinese travellers.

The Minister said such innovations demonstrate how tourism and technology can work together to enhance visitor experience and accessibility.

“Malaysia’s participation at ITB China 2026 also helps strengthen partnerships and build momentum as Visit Malaysia 2026 gets into fukll swing this year,” he added. — DayakDaily