KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia’s tourism industry continues to grow steadily, driven by the nation’s peace, unity and rich multicultural heritage, said Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
In his speech at the opening ceremony of “I Lite U” for Visit Malaysia 2026, Anwar said the success of the tourism sector is rooted in harmony among Malaysians of all backgrounds.
“The tourism industry is growing because Malaysia is a peaceful country. It succeeds because of all races and because our culture and arts from Perlis to Sabah and Sarawak reflect the contributions of every community,” he said.
Anwar said Malaysia’s diverse heritage, shaped by Malays, Chinese, Indians, Sabahans and Sarawakians, is a source of national pride that must be preserved and defended.
“We are proud Malaysians. When I say ‘Malaysian’, I refer to all our people Malays, Chinese, Indians, Sabahans and Sarawakians. Together, we are a great nation,” he said.
Anwar also highlighted Malaysia’s achievements on the global stage, noting that the country produced an Oscar winner through actress Tan Sri Michelle Yeoh.
Also present at the event were Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming, Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing, Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil, Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Federal Territories) Dr Hannah Yeoh and Kuala Lumpur Mayor Datuk Fadlun Mak Ujud.
“I Lite U” is an initiative aimed at boosting tourism by enhancing Kuala Lumpur’s night time landscape, particularly in support of Visit Malaysia Year 2026, which targets 28 million tourist arrivals and RM76 billion in national revenue.
It is an urban decorative lighting initiative designed to strengthen Kuala Lumpur’s night time identity as an international tourism city through modern, harmonious and locally inspired lighting concepts.
The government also aims to expand the “I Lite U” model to other major cities such as Ipoh, George Town, Melaka and Johor Baru to create urban environments that are more friendly, safe and internationally competitive.
The project is jointly organised by the Housing and Local Government Ministry, the Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry, the Federal Territories Department and Kuala Lumpur City Hall, with strategic support from Pavilion Kuala Lumpur, Bukit Bintang Kuala Lumpur City Centre, PR1MA Malaysia Corporation, YTL Land and Grab Malaysia.
It reflects close collaboration between the public and private sectors in advancing the urban development agenda.
The selection of Bukit Bintang as the pilot location is fitting, as it serves as the heart of Kuala Lumpur’s tourism, cultural and economic activities.
In addition to beautifying the city, the project utilises energy efficient and environmentally friendly lighting technology, supporting the low carbon city agenda.
Later, Anwar also witnessed a cultural parade comprising 20 contingents, including seven marching bands, which proceeded from Pavilion Kuala Lumpur to the front of the Federal Hotel.
The parade covered a distance of 900 metres, ending at the intersection of Jalan Bukit Bintang and Jalan Sultan Ismail.
© New Straits Times Press (M) Bhd
