Tourism has always been a cornerstone of Malaysia’s economy, celebrated for its cultural diversity, natural beauty, and historic landmarks. The Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026) initiative aims to position the nation as a global tourism hotspot, but its journey has been marked by challenges.

From public backlash over a promotional video’s lack of cultural representation to debates about the campaign mascot and allegations of AI involvement, the initiative has sparked important discussions about cultural authenticity, inclusivity, and strategic planning.

Today's conversation with Gary Bowerman, Co-Founder of High-Yield Tourism, and Christyna Fong, Creative Director at The Chariot Agency, explores how Malaysia can design impactful tourism campaigns that resonate globally while honouring its unique identity.