Budget 2027 allocates RM935 million for tourism and culture, up from about RM700 million allocated for tourism-specific activities under Budget 2026.

PETALING JAYA: The RM935 million set aside for tourism and culture in Budget 2027 should be judged by whether it raises local incomes, creates jobs and opens doors for small businesses, and not merely by how many more tourists arrive, a tourism academic has said.

Universiti Utara Malaysia tourism management senior lecturer Dr Mohamad Zaki Ahmad said the increased allocation should be used to build a more integrated tourism ecosystem connecting international markets and transport gateways with local businesses and communities.

He said while the government’s decision to extend the Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026) campaign into 2027 was timely, greater promotional spending would have limited impact if destinations continued to face poor accessibility, inadequate facilities and insufficient workforce capacity.