Sarawak Aims for Five Million Tourists by 2026 Amid Economic Challenges

Sarawak, a state in Malaysia, is targeting five million tourist arrivals by 2026 after narrowly missing this goal in 2025 by approximately 20,000 visitors. Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, the Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts, expressed optimism about achieving this target, particularly in conjunction with the "Visit Malaysia 2026" campaign. He noted that the state had supported 305 events in 2025 and plans to maintain a similar number this year, including the return of the Great British Circus, which will feature a new water show titled "Legend Of The Sea."

The Straits TimesRising global oil prices could affect Sarawak tourism, but won’t dampen RWMF, says Abd KarimSarawak says “no” to scaling down major tourism events, “yes” to modest Raya open houses

Despite calls for prudent spending amid rising global oil prices, Abdul Karim emphasized that Sarawak would not scale down its major tourism and cultural events. He argued that these events should be organized "full swing" to effectively promote Sarawak's culture and provide meaningful experiences for visitors. Events like the Rainforest World Music Festival (RWMF) are seen as essential platforms for showcasing local culture, cuisine, and performing arts. Abdul Karim stated, “If it’s a food and cultural festival, we organise it so the public can try and taste our food and see our culture.”

Minister: Grand tourism events in Sarawak still on amidst call for prudent spendingSarawak says “no” to scaling down major tourism events, “yes” to modest Raya open housesRising global oil prices could affect Sarawak tourism, but won’t dampen RWMF, says Abd Karim

Rising global oil prices, which have surged to over RM200 per barrel, pose potential challenges for Sarawak's tourism sector. Higher fuel costs could lead to increased airfares, affecting international tourist arrivals from regions such as Europe and the Middle East. Abdul Karim acknowledged that the impact of rising oil prices extends beyond festivals, potentially affecting the entire tourism industry. He expressed uncertainty about the duration of current global conflicts and their implications for travel costs.

Rising global oil prices could affect Sarawak tourism, but won’t dampen RWMF, says Abd KarimMinister: Grand tourism events in Sarawak still on amidst call for prudent spendingThe Straits Times

Abdul Karim reiterated that the federal government's directive on spending prudence does not apply to Sarawak, as the state government has its own approach to managing expenditures. He indicated that while major events would proceed as planned, moderation could be applied to certain celebrations, such as Hari Raya open houses, where the number of dishes served could be reduced.

Sarawak says “no” to scaling down major tourism events, “yes” to modest Raya open houses

While the Sarawak government maintains its commitment to large-scale events, there are concerns regarding the sustainability of such spending in the face of economic pressures. Critics argue that the focus on extravagant events may not align with the need for fiscal responsibility, especially during challenging economic times.

Minister: Grand tourism events in Sarawak still on amidst call for prudent spending

As Sarawak prepares for its ambitious tourism goals, the state will continue to host significant events throughout the year, including the RWMF scheduled for June 26 to 28, 2026. The government remains hopeful that these initiatives will attract the desired number of visitors while navigating the challenges posed by rising global oil prices.

Rising global oil prices could affect Sarawak tourism, but won’t dampen RWMF, says Abd Karim

• “If we could have added one or two more days last year, we would have reached the elusive five million figure.” — Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts

The Straits Times

• “Why should we do it in a moderate way? You should go full swing,” — Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah

Minister: Grand tourism events in Sarawak still on amidst call for prudent spending

• “When oil prices go up, the impact extends beyond music events or festivals.” — Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah

Rising global oil prices could affect Sarawak tourism, but won’t dampen RWMF, says Abd Karim