Desa Kirana to turn 20 rural villages into tourism hubs by 2026
PETALING JAYA: A total of 20 rural destinations across Malaysia are set to be transformed into vibrant tourism hubs under the Desa Kirana@KKDW programme, a key initiative by the Rural and Regional Development Ministry (KKDW) to boost rural economies ahead of Visit Malaysia Year (VMY) 2026.
Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said the programme, which offers structured rural tourism products, is expected to yield measurable outcomes by next year, including at least a 20 per cent increase in income for targeted groups, depending on the product and location.
"Currently, two pilot sites have been selected, Kampung Pulau Tanjung Surat in Johor and Kampung Lonek in Negeri Sembilan, based on their high potential in offering rural tourism experiences, vibrant community-based activities, and rich cultural and heritage attractions.
"Overall, Desa Kirana@KKDW is expected to serve as a catalyst for sustainable and inclusive rural tourism growth, transforming rural villages into competitive and appealing tourist destinations.
"The programme, spearheaded by KKDW's Community Economic Development Division (EK), is also a 2025 'game changer' aimed at strengthening the rural tourism ecosystem," he said during the official launch of Desa Kirana@KKDW at Sunway Putra Hotel today.
Also present was Deputy Minister of Rural and Regional Development Datuk Rubiah Wang.
Earlier, Ahmad Zahid, who is also the Rural and Regional Development Minister, chaired the 1/2025 MEXCLUB Coordination Meeting held in conjunction with the launch.
He said Desa Kirana@KKDW aims to comprehensively promote existing rural tourism attractions, particularly those under KKDW and its affiliated agencies, to both domestic and international visitors.
"The programme also targets modern travellers, such as digital nomads, who may wish to temporarily reside in Desa Kirana locations equipped with amenities suited for a flexible, digital lifestyle.
"It also aims to uplift the socio-economic status of rural communities through integrated and holistic implementation involving collaboration with local communities, government agencies and the private sector.
"The initiative supports efforts to bridge development and economic gaps between urban and rural areas, curb youth migration to cities, and showcase the unique identity of Malaysia's villages to a global audience."
He said the programme will enable rural communities to generate income through niche tourism products available in their respective areas.
"Desa Kirana@KKDW will focus on five key tourism elements: heritage and culture, natural attractions, gastronomy, traditional products, and activities.
"Its implementation will be supported through training and capacity-building where needed, the utilisation of existing facilities such as the Village Community Centres (PKD) and Nadi, as well as the activation of digital platforms like Desamall and others for promotion and bookings."
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