Sarawak Welcomes First Arrivals As VMY2026 Kicks Off At KIA
KUCHING: Sarawak marked the official launch of Visit Malaysia Year 2026 (VMY2026) with a welcoming ceremony for visitors arriving at the International Arrival Hall of Kuching International Airport (KIA) here on Thursday.
The ceremony was officiated by Minister for Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Sarawak, Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, who said the initiative reflects Sarawak’s readiness to receive both domestic and international visitors at the start of the new tourism year.
Speaking to the media on-site, he said the simultaneous welcoming ceremonies were held nationwide on 1 January 2026 in conjunction with VM2026, involving 55 main entry points and selected locations across all states and territories.
“For Sarawak, welcoming activities are being carried out at nine locations, including air, land and border entry points. Among them are Kuching, Miri, Sibu and Bintulu, as well as Tebedu, Biawak and Sungai Tujuh,” he said.
He added that the ceremony at KIA symbolised Sarawak’s hospitality and commitment to ensuring a positive first impression for travellers arriving in the state, whether for holidays, family visits or returning to their hometowns.
Earlier, invited guests and media representatives gathered at the arrival hall before the arrival of the minister, followed by a cultural performance showcasing Sarawak’s diverse heritage.
The welcoming segment later coincided with the arrival of domestic and international flights from Subang, Kuala Lumpur and Singapore.
Dato Sri Abdul Karim noted that the welcoming ceremonies were among the initiatives coordinated by Tourism Malaysia to generate early momentum and publicity for Visit Malaysia 2026.
He also took the opportunity to extend an open invitation to travellers, saying Sarawak remains ready to welcome visitors with its unique culture, natural attractions and renowned hospitality.
“We welcome all domestic and international tourists to Sarawak and, of course, to Malaysia as we begin VMY2026,” he said. -UKASnews
