Malaysia launches ‘Visit Malaysia 2026’ campaign in Istanbul
Malaysian official attended the launching event for Visit Malaysia 2026 campaing in Istanbul, Türkiye on April 18. (Photo by Malaysian Consulate General)
Tourism Malaysia officially launched its much-anticipated “Visit Malaysia 2026” (VM2026) campaign during the Colors of the World event held in Istanbul’s Yenikapi. The launch was led by Malaysia’s Consul General in Istanbul, Ahmad Amiri Abu Bakar, who introduced the campaign’s official logo, mascot, and theme song.
The VM2026 logo symbolizes Malaysia’s vibrant culture, natural beauty, and global appeal, representing the country’s readiness to welcome tourists from around the world.
Visit Malaysia 2026‘s mascot, the Malayan Sun Bear—an endangered species—reflects Malaysia’s commitment to wildlife conservation. Designed in an animated style, the mascot aims to highlight Malaysia’s image as a warm, family-friendly destination.
Titled “Surreal Experiences”, the campaign’s official theme song is designed to attract global attention and engage visitors with the unique experiences Malaysia offers.
Visit Malaysia 2026 campaign offers diverse attractions
Tourism from Türkiye to Malaysia saw a significant rise, with 23,986 Turkish visitors recorded in 2024—a 38.8% increase from 17,275 in 2023—marking the highest number of Turkish arrivals to date and surpassing the 20,000 milestone for the first time.
Malaysia continues to draw travelers with its diverse attractions, from Langkawi’s white sandy beaches and the crystal-clear waters around Mabul Island in Sabah to the lush rainforests of Sarawak. The capital, Kuala Lumpur, offers a rich blend of culture, world-class shopping, and a renowned culinary scene.
As a multicultural nation, Malaysia is a melting pot of traditions and flavors. Gastronomy remains one of the top interests for tourists, with food and beverage, shopping, and accommodation leading in visitor spending.
Tourism growth between Malaysia and Türkiye reflects a strong foundation of mutual interest and collaboration. Continued support from the travel industry, media, and stakeholders is seen as crucial for driving demand and promoting both countries as top travel destinations.
