Malaysian Tourism Demand in Medan Rises with Affordable Packages and Easy Access, Get the Details Here

Published on December 5, 2025

Medan, the bustling capital of North Sumatra in Indonesia, is fast becoming a hot destination for Malaysian tourists. Due to proximity, cultural affinity, and relatively low-priced tour packages, demand is pouring in, according to industry circles present at the recent inaugural Astindo Sumut Travel Exchange, or Astex, last month. This surge in interest reflects Medan’s growing status as a go-to destination for short, convenient escapes for Malaysian tourists.

Short Flight Times Fueling Demand
One of the primary factors driving the rise in Malaysian visitors to Medan is the easy accessibility of the destination. Medan is well-connected to Malaysia by multiple daily flights from major cities such as Kuala Lumpur, Penang, and Johor Bahru. These short flight times, often just under two hours, make Medan an attractive option for Malaysians looking to take quick weekend getaways or short breaks. The availability of several flights each day provides flexibility for travelers, allowing them to plan their trips with ease.

The efficiency of air travel has made Medan an ideal destination for both seasoned travelers and those looking for a quick, affordable escape from their routine. For Malaysian tourists, the ease of access to Medan plays a crucial role in its growing popularity.

Cultural Familiarity Enhances the Appeal of Medan
Another key driver of Medan’s appeal is the cultural closeness between Malaysia and Medan. The cultural similarities between the two destinations, including shared language, food, and social norms, make Medan a comfortable and welcoming destination for Malaysian tourists. According to Nor Idayu Kamaruzaman, the director of Jendela Asia Tour & Travels, Malaysian travelers often feel at ease in Medan, as it offers a sense of familiarity.

The shared Malay heritage, similar culinary traditions, and warm hospitality in Medan create an atmosphere that makes Malaysians feel right at home. For Malaysian tourists, this cultural affinity enhances the appeal of Medan, allowing them to experience a new destination while enjoying the comforts of familiar cultural practices.

Families and Young Adults Drive Growth
The increasing demand for travel to Medan is particularly evident among families and young adults seeking affordable and convenient vacation options. As Syamira Farisha, operations manager at Neskop Travel Agency explains, the best-selling package is still the three-day Medan city break. This simple itinerary typically includes food stops, market shopping, and a short cultural visit, making it an ideal option for those looking for a low-cost, no-fuss getaway.

Families and young adults are drawn to the ease and affordability of these short trips, making Medan a great destination for weekend travel. With its compact size and accessibility, Medan offers the perfect setting for travelers who want a brief but fulfilling escape without the need for complex or expensive travel arrangements.

Expanding Beyond City Breaks
As demand for Medan grows, travel agents are beginning to see a shift in the types of experiences Malaysian tourists are seeking. Initially, most packages centered on city-based tours, but now, travelers are asking for more diverse itineraries. Jo’N Nadia Shehnaz, business leader at Travel Dynamics, pointed out that many clients are now requesting travel packages that go beyond a typical city break, seeking to combine visits to Medan with other nearby attractions like Berastagi and Lake Toba.

This growing interest in longer and more varied itineraries signals a shift in how Malaysian tourists are exploring Medan and its surrounding areas. Rather than simply focusing on city-centric packages, there is an increasing desire to explore the natural beauty and cultural offerings of the wider North Sumatra region.

Lake Toba’s Renewed Appeal
Lake Toba, one of Indonesia‘s most famous tourist destinations, is witnessing a resurgence in popularity among Malaysian travelers. The iconic lake, located just outside Medan, was a major attraction for Malaysian visitors in the early 2000s, but it saw a decline in recent years. However, with upgraded infrastructure and new luxury accommodations now available in Samosir, the island at the center of Lake Toba, the destination is drawing renewed interest.

With modern four- and five-star hotels in Samosir, Lake Toba is becoming an increasingly viable destination for travelers seeking longer stays. The improvements to infrastructure, along with the availability of structured itineraries, make it easier for tourists to enjoy the beauty of Lake Toba without feeling overwhelmed by the logistics of travel. Nadia Shehnaz noted that four- or five-night packages could appeal to families and small groups looking for a more immersive experience.

The combination of tranquil lakeside scenery, cultural heritage, and modern amenities makes Lake Toba a perfect addition to the itineraries of travelers who are now looking to extend their stays beyond Medan city.

Medan’s Growing Role in Malaysian Travel

Clearly, the growing popularity of Medan among Malaysian tourists reflects its accessibility, cultural similarity, and affordability. As more Malaysian tourists uncover the charm of Medan and its environs, including the serenity of Lake Toba, the destination will continue to be a staple of short, fun vacations. The trend from mere city breaks to more diverse itineraries also illustrates the changing preferences of Malaysian tourists, who look forward to exploring more of what Medan and North Sumatra have in store.