Kuala lumpur: The second meeting of the Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026) National Main Committee has agreed to extend the implementation of VM2026 until the end of 2027. Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi stated that the decision would be presented to the Cabinet for consideration and approval.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the decision aims to enable Malaysia to adopt a proactive approach in strengthening promotional strategies, presenting the country as a safe, stable, and competitive destination, and taking advantage of changing tourist travel patterns. The measure also considers current developments, such as the conflict that began on February 28, 2026, in West Asia, which has significantly impacted regional stability and the global tourism sector.

Ahmad Zahid, who is the chairman of the VM2026 National Main Committee, noted that projections indicate a potential decline in tourist arrivals from West Asia by 11 to 27 percent. The conflict has affected tourism hotspots in Asia and ASEAN, disrupted international flight routes, and increased travel costs due to rising fuel prices and transportation expenses.

This situation has diminished tourist confidence, which is anticipated to affect global tourism flow shortly. As part of the national agenda, the campaign seeks to boost tourism revenue, enhance Malaysia's competitiveness in the tourism industry, and position the sector as a primary contributor to the country's Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

The committee consists of six working committees led by the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, the Ministry of Communications, the Ministry of Housing and Local Government, and the Ministry of Transport, with participation from various government agencies. Each ministry and agency can present their program achievements and planning activities in line with the VM2026 campaign.

Ahmad Zahid expressed the government's commitment to ensuring that VM2026 is executed holistically and effectively, with each entity playing its role in an integrated manner. The effort aims to bolster strategic cooperation, attract more visitors, increase their length of stay and spending, and promote Malaysia as a safe, stable, and competitive holiday destination.