PETALING JAYA: The Visit Malaysia Year 2026 (VMY2026) promotional video that has turned controversial after the Opposition questioned the absence of mosques in it will be remade with more details to better promote each state, says Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing.
The new videos, which are expected to be released within a week, are segmented into zones, each featuring two or three states, said the Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister.
Adding that he was dissatisfied with the final result of the video shown to him yesterday, Tiong said he has directed the relevant ministries and agencies to produce promotional videos showcasing top attractions.
“I want the videos to be divided into zones, so that the public understands what a certain state has to offer (attractions of each state) and not just jump here, jump there... in the end, even tourists from abroad are confused, not knowing which one (attraction) is in the state.
“We are promoting each state systematically.
“I have asked all state governments to cooperate and provide us with information, tourist destinations, new (tourism) products or packages, food that we think is the most delicious... we can include (in the videos) to promote,” he said.
The decision follows criticism levelled at the ministry by Perikatan Nasional after the initial 41- second launch video for VMY2026 was released.
Bersatu and PAS leaders took issue with what they called the failure to include any mosques while featuring places of worship like the Batu Caves Temple and the Christ Church in Melaka.
Tiong emphasised that the video was not an official promo clip, urging the public not to jump to conclusions or politicise the issue as it could create confusion and tension on social media.
The minister made these remarks while addressing reporters after officiating an engagement session with the central region tourism industry players at a hotel here yesterday.
He noted that striving for harmony and unity among all communities is essential to boost confidence in the country and its people.
The vignette, uploaded earlier on Tourism Malaysia’s official Facebook page, also includes popular tourist destinations such as Petaling Street (Kuala Lumpur’s Chinatown), Central Market, Mulu Caves (Sarawak) and Langkawi Skywalk (Kedah).
On Wednesday, Tiong assured the public that mosque architecture elements will be included in the more detailed promotional videos for VMY2026.
