World Tourism Day celebration kicks off in Malaysia

World Tourism Day 2025 was celebrated in Melaka on Saturday, with Malaysia calling for global action to make tourism a driver of sustainability, culture and resilience.

Malaysia’s Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture, Dato’ Sri Tiong King Sing, speaks on World Tourism Day 2025 in Melaka on Saturday.

Malaysia’s Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, in collaboration with UN Tourism and the Malacca State Government, is hosting a global event alongside the 7th World Tourism Conference from September 27-29 under the theme “Tourism and Sustainable Transformation”.
The opening of the event was officiated by Deputy Prime Minister Dato’ Sri Haji Fadillah bin Haji Yusof, with welcoming remarks delivered by the Secretary-General of UN Tourism, Zurab Pololikashvili, and opening remarks by the Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture, Dato’ Sri Tiong King Sing, according to Tourism Malaysia.
In his address, Dato’ Sri Tiong said tourism growth must go beyond visitor numbers to deliver real benefits, safeguarding heritage, protecting ecosystems, and strengthening communities.
He highlighted Malaysian initiatives such as the Miso Walai Homestay in Sabah, The Habitat in Penang, and the upcoming UN-recognised sustainable tourism observatory in Mersing as examples of innovation and inclusivity.
Delegates, including representatives from the UN Tourism Secretariat, industry experts, and media, will engage in discussions on artificial intelligence, cross-sector collaboration, community empowerment, and strategies to align tourism with global climate goals.
Visits will offer insights into Melaka’s rich history through heritage trails, culinary showcases and eco tours.
In conjunction with the event, Prime Minister Dato’ Sri Anwar Ibrahim  officiated at the launch of Visit Malaysia 2026 in Melaka, marking a key highlight of the opening day.
Festivities, including cultural exhibitions, heritage runs, coffee festivals, kite flying, and trade fairs, are also taking place across the city.
The Malaysian tourism ministry said World Tourism Day and the World Tourism Conference will enhance Melaka’s international standing not only as a UNESCO World Heritage Site but also as a model for sustainable tourism.
The ministry reaffirmed its commitment to making Malaysia a hub for innovative, inclusive and environmentally responsible tourism in the years ahead.

By Times Reporters
(Latest Update September 28, 2025)