Domestic tourism hits record high of RM121bil in 2025

2026-03-17 - 05:24

The strong domestic tourism performance in 2025 was driven by higher travel activity among Malaysians, particularly during peak seasons. (Bernama pic) PETALING JAYA: Domestic tourism expenditure reached a record high of RM121 billion in 2025, a RM14.3 billion increase from the RM106.7 billion reported the previous year, said the statistics department. Chief Statistician Uzir Mahidin said domestic tourism receipts rose 12.4% year-on-year to RM32.6 billion in the fourth quarter (Q4) of 2025. He added that the stronger performance in 2025 was driven by higher travel activity among Malaysians, particularly during peak seasons like school holidays and festive periods. In a statement, Uzir said the sustained demand was also reflected in higher spending across key segments like accommodation, food and beverages, transport, and retail. The total number of domestic tourists reached 74 million in Q4 2025, up 10.8% year-on-year. For the whole of 2025, visitor numbers rose 11.5% to 290.1 million compared with 260.1 million visitors the preceding year. Airports also saw a 17.9% year-on-year increase in domestic arrivals in Q4 2025, while retail sales of automotive fuel went up 7.1%. The accommodation subsector recorded solid growth with revenue expanding 14.7% year-on-year in Q4 2025, and hotel occupancy rates improving across all categories. “Overall, Malaysia’s domestic tourism sector continues to function as a key pillar of economic growth, supported by rising visitor numbers, higher tourism expenditure, and resilient performance across tourism‐related industries,” said Uzir.