The Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026) tourism campaign officially began with a ceremonial send-off for Malaysia Airlines passengers flying from Manila to Kuala Lumpur.
Malaysia Airlines said the event was organized by the Embassy of Malaysia in Manila through Tourism Malaysia, in collaboration with the flag carrier. The ceremony was held at Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 1.
Leading the delegation was Malaysian Ambassador to the Philippines Dato’ Abdul Malik Melvin Castelino, joined by Tourism Attaché Mohd Faizal Sharip, Deputy Chief of Mission Nor Jufri Nizar Edrus, and Malaysia Airlines Sales Manager Diana Cher Lacsamana Batica.
During the event, the delegation met with cabin crew members, sharing the vision and goals of Visit Malaysia Year 2026 and thanking them for their role in welcoming international travelers.
A total of 157 passengers departing for Kuala Lumpur received VM2026 commemorative souvenirs at the boarding gate, assisted by Malaysia Airlines Philippines Airport Station Head Michael Vince Betron.
Malaysia Airlines currently operates 21 weekly flights between Manila and Kuala Lumpur, while its sister airline Firefly serves the Cebu–Kuala Lumpur route with five weekly flights.
As part of the VM2026 campaign, Malaysia will stage more than 300 events throughout the year showcasing its multicultural heritage, arts, and festive traditions. Major highlights include VM2026 celebrations for Chinese New Year, Aidilfitri, Deepavali, and Christmas, alongside iconic festivals such as Tadau Ka’amatan and Gawai.
The airline said these curated events will offer immersive experiences, including cultural parades, culinary showcases, traditional performances, spiritual observances, and community-led celebrations nationwide.
Malaysia aims to attract 47 million international visitors under the VM2026 campaign, supporting tourism as a key economic driver. Anchored by the theme song “Surreal Experiences,” the initiative promises a year-long lineup of festivals, exhibitions, and uniquely Malaysian experiences.
Malaysia Airlines added that Visit Malaysia 2026 is expected to boost tourist arrivals, create jobs, enhance the country’s global profile, and generate economic gains across sectors such as hospitality, transport, retail, and gastronomy.
