Malaysia targets over 2 million Indian tourists by 2026 amid rising arrivals

Malaysia is intensifying efforts to attract visitors from India, aiming to welcome more than 2 million tourists by 2026 as part of its broader tourism development strategy, reports BERNAMA, a partner of TV BRICS.

According to official data, the number of visitors from India reached approximately 1.36 million in 2024, before rising by 15 per cent to 1.56 million in 2025. Authorities expect this upward trend to continue, supported by targeted promotional campaigns and expanded international outreach.

The initiative forms part of the national tourism programme “Visit Malaysia 2026”, which seeks to position the country as a leading destination for international travellers.

Officials highlighted that Malaysia offers a diverse tourism experience, combining cultural heritage, natural landscapes and modern infrastructure, which continues to attract growing interest from visitors. Efforts are also being made to enhance services and facilities to better meet the expectations of this segment.

Tourism development has been identified as a key driver of economic growth, with authorities focusing on improving visitor experiences, strengthening connectivity and expanding destination offerings across the country.

In parallel, long-term strategies are being implemented to ensure sustainable sector growth, including the promotion of cultural exchange and the development of tourism products tailored to different international markets.

The latest targets underline Malaysia’s ambition to consolidate its position as a major tourism hub in Asia while strengthening ties with India through increased travel and people-to-people connections.