(London, 4th) Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid stated that during Malaysia's Tourism Year 2026, the country aims to attract 500,000 UK tourists to visit.
He said this target is achievable as there has been a significant increase in the number of UK tourists in the first four months of this year, and he is confident that the numbers will continue to rise.
"I am satisfied with the efforts of the Malaysia Tourism Board in London, especially in attracting 500,000 UK tourists, and I believe this can definitely be achieved."
He said this at a press conference after the launch ceremony of Malaysia Tourism Year 2026 in London.
Previously, Ahmad Zahid attended a tourism roundtable meeting with members of the UK tourism industry.
He mentioned at the roundtable meeting that there is a suggestion to launch special packages for tourists flying with Malaysian airlines, offering incentives for stopovers in Kuala Lumpur or other destinations on the peninsula, allowing tourists to enjoy local experiences.
"I have agreed to submit this proposal to the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture and bring it to the Cabinet so that we can strive to implement this plan before 2026.
"Malaysia Airlines once offered similar packages, which were very successful at that time, and perhaps we can implement the suggestions made by the Malaysia Airlines manager in London."
Earlier, in his speech, Ahmad Zahid mentioned that Malaysia received 390,035 UK tourists in 2024, contributing over 2.5 billion ringgit in tourism expenditure.
He said Malaysia has approved the opening of 103 new international routes, increased 29 flight frequencies, and added 5 chartered flights.
"These are all preparations for the Malaysia Tourism Year 2026. I believe these routes are not only an expansion of infrastructure but also provide various opportunities for tourists, operators, and investors."
He said this target is achievable as there has been a significant increase in the number of UK tourists in the first four months of this year, and he is confident that the numbers will continue to rise.
"I am satisfied with the efforts of the Malaysia Tourism Board in London, especially in attracting 500,000 UK tourists, and I believe this can definitely be achieved."
He said this at a press conference after the launch ceremony of Malaysia Tourism Year 2026 in London.
Previously, Ahmad Zahid attended a tourism roundtable meeting with members of the UK tourism industry.
He mentioned at the roundtable meeting that there is a suggestion to launch special packages for tourists flying with Malaysian airlines, offering incentives for stopovers in Kuala Lumpur or other destinations on the peninsula, allowing tourists to enjoy local experiences.
"I have agreed to submit this proposal to the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture and bring it to the Cabinet so that we can strive to implement this plan before 2026.
"Malaysia Airlines once offered similar packages, which were very successful at that time, and perhaps we can implement the suggestions made by the Malaysia Airlines manager in London."
Earlier, in his speech, Ahmad Zahid mentioned that Malaysia received 390,035 UK tourists in 2024, contributing over 2.5 billion ringgit in tourism expenditure.
He said Malaysia has approved the opening of 103 new international routes, increased 29 flight frequencies, and added 5 chartered flights.
"These are all preparations for the Malaysia Tourism Year 2026. I believe these routes are not only an expansion of infrastructure but also provide various opportunities for tourists, operators, and investors."