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Don't Politicise Tourism Product Meant for Labour Day Holiday, Says MOTAC

The Star
The Star•Apr 30, 2026

Why It Matters

Keeping tourism initiatives free from political exploitation safeguards Malaysia’s economic recovery and preserves its reputation as a stable travel destination.

Key Takeaways

  • •MOTAC urges keeping Labour Day tourism apolitical campaign.
  • •Focus on domestic water festival to boost local economy.
  • •Officials cite modest tourism recovery from Asia, Europe.
  • •Calls for inter‑state cooperation to spread tourist traffic.
  • •Warns political misuse could hinder Malaysia’s overall growth.

Summary

The Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC) warned against turning the Labour Day holiday tourism programme into a political platform, emphasizing that the water‑festival event should remain a neutral, leisure‑focused offering. The statement came amid preparations for a series of water‑based attractions intended to encourage Malaysians to travel domestically and support local economies during the long weekend.

MOTAC highlighted that domestic tourism is a key driver for stabilising the post‑pandemic economy, noting modest but encouraging visitor growth from Asian neighbours, Europe and a slight dip from the Middle East. Officials cited recent data showing increased arrivals from Euro‑zone countries and a gradual rebound in regional travel, while acknowledging the broader geopolitical tensions that could affect inbound flows.

A senior MOTAC official stressed, “We must not turn programmes into political platforms; our priority is economic stability and citizen enjoyment.” The ministry also urged state governments to coordinate their own events, ensuring tourist traffic is distributed across the country rather than concentrated in Kuala Lumpur.

The admonition carries weight for Malaysia’s tourism strategy: keeping promotional activities apolitical preserves investor confidence, sustains revenue streams, and reinforces the nation’s image as a stable, welcoming destination. Continued inter‑state collaboration and a focus on domestic experiences are likely to shape future tourism policies and marketing campaigns.

Original Description

Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing, who officiated the inaugural Rain Rave Water Music Festival in Kuala Lumpur on April 30, slammed certain quarters for politicising the event which he said is held from April 30 to May 2 to draw more tourists during world Labour Day celebration and the Visit Malaysia Year 2026 campaign.

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