KUALA LUMPUR – In the run-up to Visit Malaysia Year 2026 (VM2026), Malaysia is taking a big leap forward in regional cooperation with its ASEAN neighbour, Cambodia. With the announcement of a new direct flight by Cambodia Airways from Phnom Penh to Penang, bilateral tourism, economic and cultural exchange is growing.
Tourism Minister, Dato Seri Tiong King Sing said this in a high profile event in Phnom Penh last night where the VM2026 campaign was launched to Cambodian stakeholders. The event brought together diplomats, tourism players and policymakers to stress the importance of ASEAN unity in rebuilding tourism post pandemic.
“Tourism is not just travel; it’s an engine for economic growth, a bridge for cultural understanding and a platform for community empowerment,” said Tiong.
The highlight of the visit was the announcement of a new Cambodia Airways route from Phnom Penh to Penang which will start on June 26, 2025. The twice weekly service on Thursdays and Sundays with an Airbus A319 will have 150 seats and will improve connectivity between the two countries.
Tiong called the new route a big milestone not only for tourists but also for entrepreneurs, cultural ambassadors and students. He also asked Cambodia Airways to consider more direct routes to make it even easier for the two countries to connect.
Earlier in the day, Tiong paid a courtesy call on Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet at the Peace Palace where they discussed new tourism opportunities and cultural exchanges.
“Malaysia is a country of diversity, from the skyscrapers of Kuala Lumpur to the beaches of Langkawi and the highlands of Cameron to the rainforests of Borneo,” Tiong told Cambodian officials. “We have something for every traveller.”
In return, he praised Cambodia’s culture and people, and the ASEAN identity and harmony that both countries share.
He called on the Cambodian tourism industry and investors to work together to increase airline access, develop packages and simplify visa process for tourists.
The Malaysian delegation’s visit, supported by MOTAC, is part of the country’s overall strategy to position Malaysia as a highly connected and culturally rich destination for VM2026. The campaign is to showcase Malaysia’s modern and traditional under the theme “Surreal Experience”.
“Strategic partnerships like this ensure that as borders reopen, the region rises together,” Tiong said. “Through strong government and private sector cooperation, we can reimagine the tourism landscape for mutual benefit.”
Malaysia’s outreach to Cambodia reflects a diplomatic approach to tourism, where cultural respect, mutual investment, and people-to-people ties lead the way. With VM2026 as a rallying point, the push for new routes, greater connectivity, and deeper cultural ties is not just timely; it’s essential.
“With sincere gratitude, I thank the Cambodian government and its people for their warm hospitality. May our friendship grow deeper, our skies more connected, and our futures more prosperous together.” -MalayaDailyToday
