Latest news with #VMY2026
New Straits Times
04-07-2025
- Entertainment
- New Straits Times
VMY2026: Tourism Malaysia backs 'Worth The Wait' to boost country's global appeal
VMY2026: Tourism Malaysia backs 'Worth The Wait' to boost country's global appeal Bernama KUALA LUMPUR: Tourism Malaysia is stepping up efforts to promote the country by leveraging the global reach of international films, in preparation for Visit Malaysia Year (VMY) 2026. The latest initiative is through the film 'Worth The Wait', a collaborative project between the Tourism, Arts and Culture Ministry, National Film Development Corporation Malaysia (Finas) and King Street Pictures, an international production company. Tourism Malaysia director-general Datuk Manoharan Periasamy said film is a powerful medium for showcasing Malaysia's beauty to global audiences, and the ministry fully supports foreign production companies that choose the country as a filming location. "One of our key objectives is to promote Malaysia through cinema. We strongly encourage more international film companies to select Malaysia as their filming destination," he said at the premiere of Worth The Wait today. He said Tourism Malaysia is actively involved in promotional efforts, positioning Malaysia as a filming destination and leveraging the film's cast and producers as ambassadors for the VMY2026 campaign on social media platforms. Manoharan said the film's cast, predominantly of Asian descent, with millions of followers on digital platforms, can significantly boost Malaysia's appeal among international travellers. In addition to the collaboration with Worth The Wait producers, he said the ministry and Finas are also actively engaging with more international production companies. He noted that film-based promotion offers broad and rapid reach, as movies today are distributed not only in cinemas but also via online streaming platforms. He said this collaboration presents a win-win opportunity for the ministry, government agencies and international filmmakers in promoting and showcasing Malaysia's unique attractions. During the screening, producer Rachel Tan shared that the film is loosely inspired by her personal love story, which began as a long-distance relationship between Malaysia and the United States. "Worth The Wait is not just entertainment, but also a reflection of love, faith and hope. Dan Mark (producer) and I wanted to create something that celebrates our Asian identity while speaking to audiences around the world. "The response so far has been incredibly encouraging," said the former Miss Malaysia. Partially filmed at various locations across Malaysia, Worth The Wait reflects ongoing efforts to promote Asian representation in North America while also showcasing Malaysia's diverse natural landscapes, rich cultural heritage and renowned hospitality, qualities that continue to position the country as a world-class travel destination. Produced by King Street Pictures, the film is scheduled for theatrical release in Malaysia this August, with distribution by Astro Shaw. Directed by Tom Shu-Yu Lin, the film features a star-studded cast including Ross Butler, Lana Condor, Andrew Koji, Sung Kang, Elodie Yung and Golden Horse Award-winning actress Karena Lam, acclaimed across Hong Kong and Taiwan, alongside Malaysia's own Kheng Hua Tan. The film marks a significant milestone for Malaysian cinema, standing as one of the few romantic dramas to achieve both international theatrical and streaming success. It has already gained popularity as a streaming original in Hollywood, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia and New Zealand, and is set to premiere in cinemas across Singapore and the rest of Southeast Asia. – Bernama
The Sun
04-07-2025
- Entertainment
- The Sun
Tourism Malaysia promotes VMY2026 through film 'Worth The Wait'
KUALA LUMPUR: Tourism Malaysia is intensifying efforts to position the country as a premier travel destination by leveraging international films, with the latest collaboration being the romantic drama 'Worth The Wait'. The initiative is part of preparations for Visit Malaysia Year (VMY) 2026, aiming to attract global audiences through cinema. The film, a joint effort between the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC), the National Film Development Corporation Malaysia (FINAS), and Hollywood-based King Street Pictures, highlights Malaysia's scenic landscapes and cultural richness. Tourism Malaysia director-general Datuk Manoharan Periasamy emphasized the power of film in boosting tourism. 'Film is a compelling medium to showcase Malaysia's beauty to the world. We encourage more international productions to choose Malaysia as their filming location,' he said during the film's premiere. He added that the cast, with their massive social media following, will serve as ambassadors for VMY2026, amplifying Malaysia's appeal. Produced by Rachel Tan, 'Worth The Wait' draws inspiration from her own cross-continental love story. 'This film celebrates Asian identity while resonating with global audiences,' she shared. Shot in various Malaysian locations, the movie highlights the country's hospitality and diverse attractions. Featuring a star-studded cast including Ross Butler and Lana Condor, the film is set for theatrical release in Malaysia this August, with plans for wider Southeast Asian distribution. Its success on streaming platforms in Hollywood, Canada, and the UK underscores its international appeal. - Bernama
Borneo Post
01-07-2025
- Borneo Post
Lam Thye: Take proactive measures to boost safety standards especially ahead of VMY 2026
Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye KUCHING (July 1): Proactive measures must be taken to enhance safety standards for all tourists, particularly for the success of Visit Malaysia Year (VMY) 2026, said Alliance for Safe Community chairman Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye. He said the recent incidents involving road crashes and drowning in water-related activities were concerning. 'Some safety initiatives to consider are strict enforcement of traffic laws to ensure drivers, especially tour operators, adhere to speed limits, avoid reckless driving and maintain vehicle conditions; road safety awareness campaigns that provide multi-lingual safety tips for tourists including reminders on seatbelt use, motorcycle helmet laws and pedestrian crossings; and improved road infrastructure. 'It is necessary to enhance road conditions, signage and lighting in high-traffic tourist areas with the support of local authorities,' he told The Borneo Post yesterday. As for marine and safety measures, Lee suggested ensuring all water activity operators, including island tours, diving and boating, comply with strict safety protocols including life jacket use and weather monitoring. 'Also, only allow certified and experienced guides to conduct water-based activities, with regular inspections of equipment. 'Mandate safety briefings in multiple languages before any water excursions—highlighting risks and emergency procedures. Strengthen coordination between tour operators, coast guard and local rescue teams for rapid response in case of emergencies,' he said. As for collaboration and accountability, Lee suggested there should be hotline numbers for tourist assistance on top of establishing a dedicated 24/7 helpline for safety. 'There should also be public and private partnerships by engaging hotels, travel agencies and transport providers to uphold safety. Also, conduct surprise checks and refresher courses for tourism workers on safety best practices.' He said the persistent and tragic loss of lives on the nation's roads, highways and seas demanded urgent and collective attention, as these were not only devastating human tragedies but posed a threat to the success of VMY 2026 and the long-term health of the tourism industry. 'Tourism is a cornerstone of our economy, providing livelihood for millions and showcasing Malaysia's beauty and hospitality to the world. However, no amount of pristine beaches, vibrant cities or cultural richness can compensate for a perception—or worse, a reality—of unsafe travel conditions. 'News of accidents, whether fatal crashes on our highways or tragedies at sea, travels swiftly and globally. It erodes the confidence of potential visitors and damages Malaysia's hard-earned reputation as a welcoming and secure destination,' he said. He added Malaysia's reputation as a safe and welcoming destination depended on its commitment to protecting every visitor. 'As we prepare to roll out the red carpet for the world in 2026, we must first ensure we are rolling it out on safe ground and across safe waters, and this needs early preparation. 'Let us work together to ensure that VMY 2026 is not only successful in attracting tourists but also exemplary in safeguarding their well-being. Together, we can make Malaysia a destination where adventure meets safety,' he said. lead Lee Lam Thye safety tourists Visit Malaysia Year
Borneo Post
01-07-2025
- Borneo Post
Take proactive measures to boost safety standards especially ahead of VMY 2026 — Lam Thye
Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye KUCHING (July 1): Proactive measures must be taken to enhance safety standards for all tourists, particularly for the success of Visit Malaysia Year (VMY) 2026, said Alliance for Safe Community chairman Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye. He said the recent incidents involving road crashes and drowning in water-related activities were concerning. 'Some safety initiatives to consider are strict enforcement of traffic laws to ensure drivers, especially tour operators, adhere to speed limits, avoid reckless driving and maintain vehicle conditions; road safety awareness campaigns that provide multi-lingual safety tips for tourists including reminders on seatbelt use, motorcycle helmet laws and pedestrian crossings; and improved road infrastructure. 'It is necessary to enhance road conditions, signage and lighting in high-traffic tourist areas with the support of local authorities,' he told The Borneo Post yesterday. As for marine and safety measures, Lee suggested ensuring all water activity operators, including island tours, diving and boating, comply with strict safety protocols including life jacket use and weather monitoring. 'Also, only allow certified and experienced guides to conduct water-based activities, with regular inspections of equipment. 'Mandate safety briefings in multiple languages before any water excursions—highlighting risks and emergency procedures. Strengthen coordination between tour operators, coast guard and local rescue teams for rapid response in case of emergencies,' he said. As for collaboration and accountability, Lee suggested there should be hotline numbers for tourist assistance on top of establishing a dedicated 24/7 helpline for safety. 'There should also be public and private partnerships by engaging hotels, travel agencies and transport providers to uphold safety. Also, conduct surprise checks and refresher courses for tourism workers on safety best practices.' He said the persistent and tragic loss of lives on the nation's roads, highways and seas demanded urgent and collective attention, as these were not only devastating human tragedies but posed a threat to the success of VMY 2026 and the long-term health of the tourism industry. 'Tourism is a cornerstone of our economy, providing livelihood for millions and showcasing Malaysia's beauty and hospitality to the world. However, no amount of pristine beaches, vibrant cities or cultural richness can compensate for a perception—or worse, a reality—of unsafe travel conditions. 'News of accidents, whether fatal crashes on our highways or tragedies at sea, travels swiftly and globally. It erodes the confidence of potential visitors and damages Malaysia's hard-earned reputation as a welcoming and secure destination,' he said. He added Malaysia's reputation as a safe and welcoming destination depended on its commitment to protecting every visitor. 'As we prepare to roll out the red carpet for the world in 2026, we must first ensure we are rolling it out on safe ground and across safe waters, and this needs early preparation. 'Let us work together to ensure that VMY 2026 is not only successful in attracting tourists but also exemplary in safeguarding their well-being. Together, we can make Malaysia a destination where adventure meets safety,' he said. lead Lee Lam Thye safety tourists Visit Malaysia Year
The Star
25-06-2025
- The Star
Melaka's trishaw riders to embark on 2,500km patriotic trip
TRADITIONAL trishaw riders from Melaka are set to celebrate the 68th National Day in a truly unique and patriotic fashion by pedalling their trishaws across the nation. Kota Melaka MP Khoo Poay Tiong said that the 2,500km journey, dubbed as the Merdeka Trishaw Ride Tour, is not only a tribute to the spirit of independence but also a timely effort to promote the historic city ahead of the upcoming Visit Malaysia Year 2026 (VMY 2026). "The commitment shown by these four trishaw riders is admirable. "They're taking the lead in reviving the patriotic spirit and promoting VMY 2026 through their own meaningful way,' he said after meeting the group at Bandar Hilir on Wednesday (June 25). Khoo said the initiative is a commendable effort to inspire patriotism and raise awareness of Melaka's cultural charm. He also pledged RM40,000 as financial assistance to the group for their journey. Meanwhile, the chairman of the Persona Trishaw Association, Rosli Md Zain, said the tour will flag off on July 1 from the iconic Taming Sari Tower and is scheduled to conclude on Aug 30 at the Proclamation of Independence Memorial in Banda Hilir here. Rosli will be joined by three fellow riders, Mohd Razalie Rafie, 54, Firdaus Jefri, 30, and Muhammad Ramadan Rosli, 21, on the long trip. The four will use two traditional trishaws throughout the 61-day expedition. 'Beyond promoting patriotism, our ride aims to reignite the spirit of Merdeka and foster unity among Malaysians from all walks of life. 'We will give our utmost to fulfil this mission, with the hope that it leaves a meaningful legacy for future generations and deepens their love for the country,' he added.
