Kuala Lumpur Rings in 2026 with a Spectacular Countdown Festival and Launch of Visit Malaysia 2026

Malaysia kicked off the New Year in style as Pavilion Kuala Lumpur transformed into the ultimate stage for the Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026) Countdown Festival. This high-voltage celebration, brought together by The Fame Events, Pavilion Kuala Lumpur, and the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC), wasn’t just about ringing in 2026—it was the official launchpad for a year-long celebration of Malaysia’s culture, creativity, and world-class hospitality.

The countdown moment stole the spotlight when YAB Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim, Prime Minister of Malaysia and Guest of Honour, joined thousands of Malaysians and visitors to welcome the New Year. Sharing the stage was YB Dato Sri Tiong King Sing, Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture Malaysia, who reflected on the national significance of the evening: “This celebration was a symbolic event to ignite the momentum for VM2026 while welcoming the world to our shores. Malaysia is now fully ready to showcase its unique culture, creativity, and the warm hospitality of its people. It marks a strong head start towards our aspiration of 43 million international visitor arrivals, further solidifying our position on the global tourism map.”

The festival itself was a dazzling spectacle. Thousands of spectators were treated to pyromusical fireworks, mesmerizing drone formations, cutting-edge laser projections, and a jaw-dropping 3D anamorphic display starring the VM2026 mascots, Wira and Manja, the beloved Malayan Sun Bears.

Music and performance were equally top-tier, with local stars like Shila Amzah, Aina Abdul, Belle Sisoski, Vanessa Reynauld, Kidd Santhe, The Kuans, KLP48, Nazu, Rezza Shah, Danson Ooi, Euzen, and Penny lighting up the main stage. Cultural showcases weaved seamlessly with modern beats, creating a night where tradition and innovation danced together.

The countdown festival was just the tip of the VM2026 iceberg. Activities began on 26 December 2025, spilling across the city and beyond. Pavilion Bukit Jalil hosted the VM2026 Bazaar, while Fahrenheit 88 offered an Arts & Culture Showcase, inviting visitors to dive into batik painting, porcelain-making, and wau decoration. Foodies were treated to a taste of Malaysia at the Bukit Bintang Food Bazaar, Lot 10, featuring a mix of heritage dishes, local favourites, and modern culinary creations.

Leading up to the New Year, the city pulsed with energy from live performances by 10 iconic DJs, flash mobs at Bukit Bintang Crossing—Malaysia’s own Shibuya crossing—and busking acts across key spots, keeping the festive momentum alive and lighting up social media feeds.

VM2026 isn’t just a festival; it’s a stage for Malaysia to tell its story globally. Guided by five pillars—sustainability, cultural heritage, nature-based adventure, digital innovation, and global connectivity—the campaign aims to showcase the nation’s best while inviting Malaysians to join in celebrating their own backyard.

This grand production was made possible through the support of Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL), Tourism Malaysia, and strategic partners including Istana Budaya, the National Department for Culture and Arts (JKKN), the National Heritage Department, and the Malaysian Handicraft Development Corporation.

As the 3D projections and fireworks lit up the Kuala Lumpur skyline, the VM2026 Countdown Festival confirmed one thing: Malaysia is ready for 2026, and the world is invited.

Throughout the year, Malaysia plans to roll out mega events, from Hari Raya Aidilfitri and Chinese New Year to Deepavali, showcasing the nation’s cultural tapestry. High-impact tourism programmes, cultural festivals, conventions, MICE activities, and large-scale exhibitions will all encourage longer visitor stays while giving travellers a front-row seat to Malaysia’s unique regional identities.

With a confident start like this, 2026 is set to be a year where Malaysia’s culture, creativity, and hospitality shine brighter than ever.