13MP Sets Clear Path for Tourism to Reach 16% of GDP by 2030 – Tiong King Sing
KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 1, 2025 — The 13th Malaysia Plan (RMK13) offers a strategic and forward-looking roadmap for the tourism industry, with a clear target of contributing 16% to the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) by 2030, said Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Dato’ Sri Tiong King Sing.
In a statement following the presentation of RMK13 by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim in Parliament today, Tiong expressed confidence in the plan’s ability to sustain and build on the industry’s recovery.
He noted that foreign visitors spent RM102.2 billion in Malaysia in 2024 — a figure he described as both remarkable and encouraging.
“With effective strategies and sustained commitment under the 13MP, I am confident we are well on track to achieving our target of a 16% GDP contribution from the tourism sector by 2030,” said Tiong.
He emphasised that RMK13 is not merely a policy document, but a practical agenda aimed at transforming Malaysia into a high-income, sustainable tourism destination.
The upcoming Visit Malaysia 2026 campaign, he said, will be a key driver in this effort.
A central component of RMK13 is the establishment of Special Tourism Investment Zones (STIZ) in strategic locations such as Johor, Melaka, Negeri Sembilan, and Sarawak. Tiong revealed that 43 potential sites have already been identified as of June 2025, and that his ministry will work closely with relevant agencies to expedite their development.
“STIZ will diversify our tourism offerings and attract both domestic and international investment,” he added.
Tiong also highlighted the government’s emphasis on community-based tourism, particularly through the expansion of homestay programmes. “Tourism should not be confined to cities. It must belong to all Malaysians,” he said, pointing out the economic and cultural benefits of empowering rural communities.
Aviation is another key pillar of the plan. RMK13 includes the acquisition of 178 new aircraft by 2030, intending to boost regional and international connectivity — a move Tiong said will enhance Malaysia’s competitiveness as a travel hub in Southeast Asia.
On cultural and heritage tourism, Tiong welcomed initiatives to leverage emerging technologies, such as augmented and virtual reality, to enrich visitor experiences at iconic sites, including the Lenggong Valley, Sungai Batu, Lembah Bujang, Gua Bewah, and Warisan Kuala Lumpur.
He also praised the continued focus on transport infrastructure in East Malaysia. Projects such as the Sabah-Sarawak Link Road (SSLR), the Pan Borneo Highway, and the Trans Borneo Highway are advancing well, he said, and will dramatically improve access for tourists traveling to and within the region.
Tiong concluded by thanking the Prime Minister for his steadfast support of the tourism industry, and reaffirmed his ministry’s commitment to delivering on the 13MP’s vision. “We are determined to transform Malaysia into a sustainable, culturally vibrant, and globally competitive tourism destination,” he said.
–Hipz
