ISLAMABAD : Malaysia Truely Asia slogan initiatited some 25 years ago is continuously attracting the tourists from around the world and it is further being enriched and strengthened through exhibitions and festivals in different capitals of the world including Islamabad where High Commission of Malaysia organised the Visit Malaysia Year (VMY) 2026 Promotion from 24 to 26 November 2025 at Centaurus Mall, a busy place with large of locals and foreigners visiting every day.The three-day event aimed to promote Malaysia’s culture, cuisine, and tourism offerings to the people of Pakistan, while further strengthening the warm people-to-people ties between both countries.
The opening ceremony on 24 November 2025 was attended by all ASEAN Heads of Mission in Islamabad, as well as several regional deans based in the capital.
Their presence reflected the strong sense of regional and diplomatic support in promoting Southeast Asia as a dynamic and attractive travel destination.
His Excellency Ambassador Dato’ Mohammad Azhar Mazlan, High Commissioner of Malaysia to Pakistan, in his opening remarks, outlined the aspirations of Visit Malaysia Year 2026.
He noted that Malaysia is preparing to welcome more than 35 million international visitors next year and reaffirmed the country’s commitment to offering travellers a rich and memorable experience.
He highlighted Malaysia’s reputation for its warm hospitality, diverse natural landscapes, modern attractions, and multicultural heritage, embodied in the familiar phrase, “Malaysia Truly Asia.”
Guests were then treated to a cultural performance by a Malaysian dance troupe from the State of Pahang, presenting a glimpse of Malaysia’s colourful and diverse artistic traditions.
Throughout the three-day programme, the VMY 2026 Promotion featured cultural showcases, Malaysian culinary offerings, tourism information booths, and interactive activities designed to provide visitors with an authentic taste of Malaysia.
Highlights included traditional dance demonstrations, special tourism promotions, family-oriented engagements, and a series of lucky draws, featuring exciting prizes such as free flight tickets to Malaysia.
The programme underscored the close and longstanding relationship between Malaysia and Pakistan and served as an invitation for more Pakistani travellers to discover Malaysia in 2026.
The envoys of ASEAN Committee Islamabad also participated in the opening ceremony. Ambassadors of Morocco and Yemen were also present.
