Malaysia’s tourism minister urges warmer welcomes after ‘less than friendly’ complaints
Authorities have also called for a major clean-up ahead of Visit Malaysia 2026 in response to reports of dirtiness in tourist areas
Speaking on New Year’s Day at Kuala Lumpur International Airport, Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Tiong King Sing said he had asked for explanations after receiving the feedback.
“I have received complaints and have sought explanations from the relevant agencies. They informed me that when tourists ask for help, some members of the public have been less than friendly and even appeared irritated,” he told reporters, as quoted by The Edge Malaysia.
Such encounters, Tiong warned, could affect the perceptions of Malaysia by international travellers at a time when the government was intensifying efforts to promote the country.
“I urge everyone to work together to prove that our country is a very welcoming nation and that our culture must reflect a warm attitude towards tourists from all over the world,” he added.
The comments were made as Tiong greeted and handed out souvenirs to international passengers during Visit Malaysia 2026 promotional activities at the airport.