SIBU: Visit Malaysia Year 2026 (VM2026) is expected to serve as a catalyst for local economic growth, particularly in Sarawak and Sibu, provided promotional efforts are carried out in an integrated manner by all parties involved.

Minister for Tourism, Arts and Culture Malaysia and Bintulu MP Dato Sri Tiong King Sing said cooperation among communities, traders, government agencies and tourists is essential to ensure that the benefits of VM2026 are enjoyed comprehensively by society.

“This is an excellent opportunity to stimulate local economic growth and develop the tourism industry so that traders, service providers and local residents can reap its benefits.

“To realise this, each of us must play our role with full commitment, moving in step and working hand in hand,” he said.

He was speaking at the Chinese New Year Dinner organised by the United Chinese Association (UCA) Sibu, held at Kingwood Hotel here on Friday.

Dato Sri Tiong added that the community must maintain professionalism and extend warm hospitality to visitors, while upholding values of honesty, mutual assistance and social responsibility in order to strengthen the nation’s image.

He also expressed confidence that continued collaboration among all parties could position Sibu as a preferred tourism destination, contributing to the development of a more united, prosperous and harmonious town.

Meanwhile, Dato Sri Tiong, who is also the Dudong assemblyman, stressed the role of community organisations, including Chinese associations, in strengthening unity through inter-organisational cooperation, youth and women empowerment, as well as leadership continuity for sustainable long-term development.

At the event, he also announced an allocation of RM100,000 to UCA Sibu to support the implementation of community programmes, particularly in conjunction with VM2026.

Also present were Deputy Minister of Public Health, Housing and Local Government Sarawak and Pelawan Assemblyman Datuk Michael Tiang Ming Tee, Bukit Assek Assemblyman Chieng Jin Ek, Deputy Speaker of the Dewan Rakyat and Lanang MP Alice Lau Kiong Yieng, Bawang Assan assemblyman Wong Soon Koh, Political Secretary to the Premier of Sarawak Joshua Ting Fu Ying, Sibu Municipal Council (MPS) Chairman Councillor Clarence Ting, Sibu Zhuang & Ngieng Clan Association Chairman and Organising Chairman Ngieng Hock Teck, as well as other invited guests. -UKASnews