The Visit Malaysia Year 2026 (VM) launch happened last Monday at the Malaysia Airlines Engineering Complex and officiated by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
The video showed popular spots like Petaling Street and Central Market in Kuala Lumpur, Mulu Caves in Sarawak, Langkawi Skywalk in Kedah, Batu Caves in Selangor, and a historic church in Melaka.
“Why were mosques left out?”
The VM 2026 montage drew criticism, including from Putrajaya MP Datuk Dr. Radzi Jidin, who raised concerns in a Facebook post. He asked Tourism Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing to explain why places of worship for other religions were included but mosques were left out.
In response, Tiong revealed that elements of mosque architecture will be included in a more detailed promotional video, which is in its final stages and set to be released soon.
He explained that the main goal of the video was to show Malaysia’s uniqueness in an inclusive way, asking everyone not to turn it into a political issue.
“I hope everyone gets that launch videos like this are meant to be short and not too detailed. Malaysia has a lot of beautiful and unique places, including amazing mosque architecture. These will be featured in a more detailed promo video that focuses on each one specifically.”
“We should focus on unity and mutual respect”
Addressing the issue, Tiong said the main goal of the brief VM 2026 launch video was to promote Malaysia’s tourism, art, culture, and overall attractions, focusing on unity, economic growth, and the country’s future (rather than religion or race).
He added that elements highlighting Malaysia’s art, culture, and attractions, like silat, ngajat, and sumazau dances, which represent the beauty of the country’s culture and unity, would also be featured.
He expressed disappointment over how some had turned the issue into a religious and racial debate.
“Extremist views like these threaten our social harmony, not the ministry’s promotional efforts. I strongly oppose those twisting our work to go against the spirit of Malaysia Madani. We should focus on unity, mutual respect, and the well-being of all.”
“Don’t turn this into a religious issue”
Tiong also urged everyone, no matter their race, religion, or background, not to turn this into a religious or racial issue.
“Malaysia is a multiracial country that values inclusivity and unity. Let’s not let things like this mess with our social harmony or hurt the country’s image globally. Let’s stick together, keep the unity, and back the nation’s efforts to promote itself for the benefit of everyone,” he added.
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