13MP: Tourism Industry Sees Strong Growth, To Be Further Strengthened - PM Anwar

KUALA LUMPUR, July 31 (Bernama) -- The government will continue to boost the tourism sector under the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP) through the development of Special Tourism Investment Zones (STIZ), conservation of heritage assets in the capital, and strengthening of the homestay industry.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said the tourism industry has gained renewed momentum, with foreign tourist spending surging to RM102.2 billion in 2024.

“Therefore, the development of Tourism Investment Zones in Johor, Melaka, Negeri Sembilan, Sarawak and other states will be intensified in collaboration with the private sector and cooperatives,” he said when tabling the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP) in the Dewan Rakyat today.

He added that these zones would serve as a catalyst for new tourism offerings, particularly in arts, culture, and heritage-based tourism, citing UNESCO-recognised sites like the Lenggong Valley and Niah Caves as examples.

The Prime Minister also highlighted the Kuala Lumpur Heritage Initiative as a key effort to position the capital not only as a hub of modern architecture and technology, but also as a city rich in cultural identity.

“This includes restoring and preserving historical landmarks such as the Sultan Abdul Samad Building, Merdeka Square, Kuala Lumpur Railway Station and Carcosa Seri Negara to protect Kuala Lumpur’s rich heritage.

Anwar added that the homestay industry will also be strengthened to generate economic spillover in rural areas.

“With Visit Malaysia 2026 approaching, we must ramp up efforts across ministries, departments and the private sector,” he said, expressing hope that the initiative would serve as a key catalyst in achieving the tourism sector’s target of contributing 16 per cent to gross domestic product (GDP) during the 13MP period.

-- BERNAMA