Christina Liew
KOTA KINABALU: 2025 is a significant year for Malaysia as the country officially assumes the Chairmanship of ASEAN with the theme “Inclusivity and Sustainability”, with effect from January 1, says Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Seri Christina Liew.
She said this is a momentous occasion for the country which has been entrusted with the mammoth task of steering ASEAN forward in strengthening regional peace, stability and prosperity.
“Let us support Malaysia’s stewardship of ASEAN and the leadership of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim in his unwavering commitment and resolve to create an inclusive ASEAN Community for the greater good.
“As part of the ASEAN Economic Community, we look forward to the shared economic benefits of regional trade and tourism, among others,” she said in her New Year message.
Liew, who is also Api-Api Assemblywoman, reminded tourism stakeholders that Malaysia is gearing up for Visit Malaysia Year 2026 (VMY 2026).
“Sabah, rated as a preferred travel destination, is no exception. Now is the time to start making the necessary preparations to meet the demands of VMY 2026. I call on hoteliers, tourism product owners, tour operators and travel agents to come up with new initiatives to capitalise on travel trends favouring Sabah.
“Let us offer our warm hospitality and friendship to domestic and international visitors coming to our shores. Do make them feel welcomed,” she enthused.
Liew assured that her Ministry through its agency, the Sabah Tourism Board (STB), will assist tourism players towards achieving the goals of VMY 2026.
The Minister is optimistic of a continued upward trajectory in the number of visitor arrivals to Sabah in particular from this year (2025). Recognising the foreseeable increase of inbound tourists, which will accelerate the growth of the tourism industry, she reiterated that her Ministry advocates the concept of sustainable tourism.
“Sustainable tourism is essential to avoid jeopardising the tourism industry, given that the ever popular adventure, nature, and eco-tourism will exert heavy pressure on this sector. We, therefore, need to strike a balance between tourism growth and conservation of our environment and natural resources,” Liew asserted.
On a separate note, she urged Malaysians to take challenges in their stride, be it in their personal or professional life.
“Be resilient and resourceful. Come what may, life has to go on, so we have to overcome the odds in moving forward in the next 12 months.
“One thing is for sure, we are venturing into the known or uncharted territory, depending on our New Year’s resolution or on what we have decided to embark on in this promising year,” said Liew.
