SEPANG, Feb 17 — Tourism Malaysia rolled out a vibrant and colourful reception for inbound travellers at Kuala Lumpur International Airport Terminal 1 (KLIA 1) today, ushering in the 2026 Chinese New Year (CNY) in festive style.
The steady rhythm of resounding drums and the dynamic, high-energy lion dance performance reverberated throughout the Arrival Hall, instantly immersing visitors in the joyous spirit of the celebration.
The event was officiated by the Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture, Tiong King Sing.
Joined by the senior leadership of Tourism Malaysia, Tiong presented souvenirs inspired by the CNY celebration and Visit Malaysia Year 2026 (VM2026), as a gesture of appreciation to travellers arriving in the country.
Speaking to reporters, he said the programme was organised to extend a warm festive welcome to both international and domestic tourists arriving in Malaysia in conjunction with the Chinese New Year.
“Thank you to all our industry partners and friends who joined us at KLIA 1 to warmly welcome both international visitors and Malaysians returning home. Wishing everyone a very Happy Chinese New Year,” he said.
A Bernama survey as early as 7 am found travellers eagerly stopping to capture moments at the specially curated CNY installations, which had transformed the International Arrival Hall into a sea of striking red, symbolising prosperity, joy and good fortune.
The official VM2026 mascots, Wira and Manja, were also a major crowd-puller, with visitors enthusiastically posing for keepsake photographs with the Sun Bear characters, inspired by one of Southeast Asia’s most distinctive and native tropical species found in Malaysia.
Through the VM2026 campaign, Malaysia is targeting 43 million international arrivals in 2026, reflecting its continued commitment to strengthening tourism as a key driver of the nation’s economic growth.
