KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia welcomed 24.5 million visitors between January and July this year, a 16.8 per cent increase compared to 21 million in the same period last year.
Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing said it was made possible through strong support from the Finance Ministry and Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim despite budgetary constraints.
Tiong added that his ministry would continue to explore innovative approaches to maximise the impact of its programmes.
He said that Malaysia’s true strength lies in its cultural richness and diversity, which has long been recognised by the international community.
“During my working visits abroad, I often receive feedback that Malaysia is known as a destination with a wealth of multicultural heritage.
“This is our real strength. Our cultural diversity is not only a source of pride for Malaysians but also a treasure valued by many,” he said at the opening ceremony of the Malaysian Cultural Festival at Titiwangsa Lake Gardens.
Also present were Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar; Deputy Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Khairul Firdaus Akbar Khan; and Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Federal Territories) Datuk Seri Dr Zaliha Mustafa.
Tiong said Malaysia’s mix of ethnicities and traditions has shaped a unique identity that cannot be replicated elsewhere.
“Our culture is more than just art and heritage — it forms the nation’s identity and serves as a bridge that connects civilisations, uniting people across borders with friendship, solidarity and mutual respect,” he said.
He added that cultural diversity also creates vast opportunities for economic growth, from strengthening the tourism industry and expanding craft businesses to elevating traditional cuisine and performing arts as high-value global products.
© New Straits Times Press (M) Bhd
