Malaysia boosts tourism spending and transport plans in 2027 budget

Malaysia’s 2027 budget sets aside RM935 million for tourism, 32.6% more than in 2026.

The government is extending the Visit Malaysia campaign through 2027 and aims to reach 47 million tourists, a target carried over from 2026.

Malaysia recorded 42.2 million tourists in 2025, and about 28.8 million visited in the first eight months of 2026.

Plans include restoring several Kuala Lumpur landmarks and building 22 kilometres of covered walkways between visitor attractions.

In Langkawi and Labuan, eligible visitors who stay at least 48 hours will be able to make up to RM10,000 in duty-free purchases, compared with RM1,000 previously.

Malaysia also plans more transport options in Johor ahead of the planned February 2027 launch of the rail link between Singapore and Malaysia, including an elevated rapid transit system, more buses and more frequent commuter trains.

The budget also raises funding for Malaysia’s border agency from RM37 million to RM490 million as the country prepares for more cross-border traffic.