Sabah and East Malaysia are set to gain increased visibility as Malaysia officially launches Visit Malaysia 2026, a national tourism campaign aimed at positioning the country as a leading destination for nature-based and experience-led travel.
The official launch was held in Bukit Bintang, Kuala Lumpur, and attended by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim alongside Oscar-winning Malaysian actress Michelle Yeoh. The event marked the start of a nationwide effort to strengthen Malaysia’s global tourism appeal ahead of 2026.
While the ceremony took place in the capital, the direction of Visit Malaysia 2026 closely aligns with Sabah’s growing role in Malaysia’s tourism landscape.
A National Tourism Campaign with Growing Relevance for Sabah
Visit Malaysia 2026 places emphasis on cultural depth, natural heritage, and meaningful travel experiences. These priorities reflect what Sabah offers travellers seeking immersive journeys beyond major cities.
Sabah is increasingly recognised for:
- Wildlife and conservation-led tourism experiences
- Protected rainforests and river ecosystems
- Marine destinations in Semporna and along the east coast
- Highland retreats in Kundasang beneath Mount Kinabalu
- Community-based and indigenous cultural tourism
As global travel trends continue to shift towards authenticity and sustainability, destinations such as Sabah are expected to attract stronger international interest.
The lead-up to Visit Malaysia 2026 is expected to support Sabah’s tourism sector through:
- Greater international promotion of Sabah as a travel destination
- Improved air connectivity and tourism infrastructure
- Stronger emphasis on responsible and sustainable tourism
- Increased visibility for licensed local tour operators
For travellers, this period presents an opportunity to explore Sabah through curated, locally driven travel experiences that prioritise quality and authenticity.
Discover Sabah Through Local Experiences
SabahTravel.com connects travellers directly with licensed local operators across Sabah, offering access to wildlife tours, island adventures, cultural journeys, and highland escapes.
As Malaysia prepares to welcome global travellers under Visit Malaysia 2026, Sabah stands out as a destination well suited for those seeking depth, nature, and meaningful connections with place and people.
