Kota Kinabalu: Tourism Malaysia enhanced the arrival experience for visitors with a Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebration at Kota Kinabalu International Airport (KKIA) in conjunction with the Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026) campaign.
The programme was held simultaneously at nine airports nationwide, including Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA), Langkawi, Kuching and Penang, as part of efforts to welcome tourists arriving in the country.
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The welcoming ceremony at KKIA was officiated by Sabah Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry (Motac) Director Chong Wai Kit and attended by Tourism Malaysia Sabah Director Haryanty Abu Bakar, Sabah Tourism Board representative, Jessica Francis, as well as airport authorities, airlines and industry stakeholders.
Chong said the initiative aimed to showcase Malaysia’s rich cultural diversity while reinforcing its reputation for hospitality.
“We want to present the uniqueness and diversity of Malaysia’s culture while showing the warmth and friendliness of Malaysians in welcoming visitors,” he told the media after the welcoming ceremony, Monday.
He added that the programme forms part of preparations for VM2026, which seeks to boost tourist arrivals and strengthen the industry.
The event, held from 12.30pm to 4pm, was expected to welcome about 1,500 domestic and international visitors arriving from destinations, including Incheon, Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Kuching, Tawau and Lahad Datu.
Visitors were greeted with festive souvenirs and traditional Hari Raya delicacies, while Malay cultural performances added to the celebratory atmosphere.
The event also featured appearances by VM2026 mascots Wira and Manja, along with symbolic activities such as preparing ketupat.
The programme was supported by Malaysia Airports Holdings Berhad, Sabah Tourism Board, airlines, corporate sponsors and tourism industry partners in support of the VM2026 campaign.
