Perak Unveils Far-Reaching Development Strategy, Setting The Stage For A Monumental Visit Malaysia 2026 Success

Published on December 1, 2025

The Malaysian state of Perak has been positioned at the forefront of national readiness for the forthcoming Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026) campaign, as an extensive series of development projects has been successfully undertaken. A total of thirty-four distinct state tourism infrastructure development projects have been officially implemented, marking a substantial commitment to ensuring the state’s appeal and operational readiness for the international event.

This pivotal information was officially conveyed by the State Tourism, Industry, Investment and Corridor Development Committee chairman, Loh Sze Yee, during the recent proceedings of the Perak State Assembly sitting in Ipoh. The preparatory measures, which represent a significant governmental initiative, have been meticulously planned and executed in anticipation of the increased influx of both domestic and international visitors expected during the calendar year of 2026. The groundwork for these initiatives was laid through collaborative efforts involving numerous governmental and administrative bodies across the state, ensuring that a holistic approach to tourism enhancement was adopted and rigorously pursued. These proactive measures were deemed essential for the effective integration of the state’s attractions into the broader national tourism strategy.

Multi-Tiered Approach to State-Funded Initiatives

A highly structured and multi-tiered approach has been adopted for the thirty-four infrastructure projects, demonstrating a commitment to improving various aspects of the tourist experience, ranging from urban accessibility to rural engagement. The collective involvement of Local Authorities (PBTs), district and land offices, and numerous state agencies was pivotal in the execution of these wide-ranging initiatives. The projects themselves were stratified into three primary categories, each addressing a specific developmental need within the tourism ecosystem, necessitating a total investment of four million Malaysian Ringgit (RM4 million).

Firstly, sixteen distinct initiatives were funded with an allocation of two million Ringgit (RM2 million). These projects were specifically directed toward the development and enhancement of tourism facilities that align with the principles of the Age-Friendly City concept. This particular focus signifies that accessibility and comfort for all demographic groups, particularly older visitors, were prioritized in the planning stages. Such facilities, encompassing easier access routes, improved resting areas, and universally designed amenities, are expected to significantly broaden the appeal of urban tourism destinations within the state. The successful completion of these initiatives is considered a crucial step toward establishing Perak as an inclusive and welcoming destination on the global tourism map.

Major Financial Approvals and Promotional Strategy

In a related development, a further 2.6 million Ringgit (RM2.6 million) was approved by the state government for additional infrastructure projects under the provisions of the Perak Budget 2026. This significant financial commitment is intended to be distributed to the various local authorities, who are responsible for the on-the-ground management and execution of urban development projects. The allocation was broken down into several key areas to address specific requirements in preparation for the high-profile tourism year.

One million Ringgit (RM1 million) was designated for further rural infrastructure development within designated tourism areas, reinforcing the state’s commitment to balanced regional growth and the promotion of ecotourism. A further one million Ringgit (RM1 million) was specified for the continuous upgrading of tourism icons and the necessary maintenance of existing tourist sites, ensuring the sustainability of the initial investments made.

Furthermore, five hundred thousand Ringgit (RM500,000) was dedicated to the critical task of improving and enhancing signage and wayfinding infrastructure. Clear and comprehensive wayfinding systems are acknowledged as fundamental to enhancing the self-guided tourist experience, reducing confusion, and facilitating smooth movement across the state’s attractions. Finally, a sum of one hundred thousand Ringgit (RM100,000) was allocated for the organization and execution of the 2026 Panjut Festival. The support for this cultural event underscores the importance placed on promoting the state’s unique cultural offerings as a major drawcard for international visitors during the VM2026 period.

Federal Support, Revenue Generation, and Enforcement

Significant financial backing from the Federal Government has also been secured for two major projects within Perak, cementing the national recognition of the state’s potential. An allocation totalling 13.5 million Ringgit (RM13.5 million) was approved under the First Rolling Plan of the 13th Malaysia Plan for 2026. This federal funding is specifically earmarked for two key areas of development. The first project, valued at ten million Ringgit (RM10 million), involves the substantial upgrading of tourism facilities in Teluk Dalam, Pulau Pangkor, which falls under the Manjung district.

This investment is anticipated to transform the popular island destination’s capacity and quality of service. The second project, allocated 3.5 million Ringgit (RM3.5 million), is dedicated to the development of ecotourism facilities and essential infrastructure in Lata Puteh, located within the Larut, Matang and Selama district. This targeted investment underscores the commitment to developing sustainable, nature-based tourism, which is an increasingly sought-after segment in global travel.

Realistic Projections and Sectoral Outlook

The challenges that lie ahead for the state’s tourism sector in 2026 are widely understood to be more substantial than those faced in the preceding years of 2024 and 2025. Despite the anticipated complexities associated with coordinating a major international tourism campaign, ambitious yet carefully calculated visitor targets have been established for the coming year. Based on an analysis of current arrival trends and the momentum generated by the substantial infrastructure investments, a realistic projection has been set.

The target involves attracting 10.5 million domestic tourists and successfully welcoming 1.1 million international tourists in 2026. These targets are considered achievable projections, grounded in systematic data analysis and the considerable resources being deployed for infrastructure and promotion. The confidence in these figures is reinforced by the comprehensive nature of the preparations, including the significant financial support from both state and federal levels, alongside the strategic focus on improving accessibility, cultural offerings, and iconic landmarks. The sustained growth of the sector is thus positioned as a major economic objective, supported by a formal, structured, and well-funded development plan.