The Malaysia Familiarization Programme for Singaporean media representatives and Key Opinion Leaders (KOLs) ran from May 6 to May 11, 2024, and was recently ended by Tourism Malaysia Singapore. The objective was to emphasize the concept of dual-city vacations in Malaysia and investigate the distinctive tourist attractions of Penang and Langkawi.
 
The attendees, who were drawn from prestigious journals, newspapers, and internet sites, relished sumptuous accommodations at The George Penang. They also visited the fascinating Dream Forest Langkawi and explored the picturesque Kubang Badak Biogeotrail. This program aimed to highlight Malaysia's allure as a top tourism destination and enhance its favourable perception among Singaporean tourists.
 
The package included excursions to famous sites like The Habitat Penang Hill and ESCAPE Penang, as well as culturally stimulating activities like batik painting at Atma Alam Batik Art Village in Langkawi. Participants were able to get a personal look at the amazing things that were in store for them.
 
Collaborations with AirAsia, Penang Global Tourism, Tropical Charters Sunset Cruise, Langkawi Development Authority (LADA), Pelangi Beach Resort & S

pa, and Dream Forest Langkawi made this familiarization trip possible. With 10 weekly departures to Langkawi and 30 weekly departures to Penang, AirAsia—known for its vast network—makes it easy to travel to both locations.

The Director General of Tourism Malaysia, Mr. Manoharan Periasamy, expressed hope regarding the program's ability to increase arrivals and promote Malaysia as a top tourism destination for Singaporean tourists. As we prepare for Visit Malaysia 2026, our endeavour is in line with the close cultural and historical links that exist between the two countries.
 
"We anticipate that this familiarization trip will significantly contribute to surpassing our target of 10 million Singaporean tourists by the end of the year," said Ms Mohana Murni Shanmugam, Deputy Director of Tourism Malaysia Singapore. There is little question that more 

Singaporeans will be inspired to discover Malaysia's many attractions, rich culture, and kind hospitality as a result of the good exposure created by media and KOL outlets.  

Singapore has emerged as the primary source of tourism, accounting for a substantial portion of the 8.3 million arrivals documented in 2023. By targeting 27.3 million tourists and bringing in RM102.7 billion in revenue by 2024, Malaysia hopes to continue growing. The lofty ambition of Malaysia to attract 35.6 million foreign tourists and achieve RM147.1 billion in tourist receipts is reflected in the upcoming Visit Malaysia 2026 campaign.