Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture Malaysia (MOTAC), in collaboration with UN Tourism and the Malacca State Government, will host the World Tourism Day (WTD) and World Tourism Conference (WTC) 2025 from 27 to 29 September 2025 in Malacca, Malaysia.
With the theme “Tourism & Sustainable Transformation”, this event aligns with the principles of Malaysia Madani, reflecting a national aspiration towards balanced development, environmental stewardship, and cultural preservation.
The conference aims to strengthen collective commitment to fostering sustainable and resilient tourism while enhancing regional cooperation and international collaboration.
The conference will be officiated by YAB Dato’ Sri Haji Fadillah bin Haji Yusof, Deputy Prime Minister of Malaysia, with welcoming remarks by Zurab Pololikashvili, Secretary-General of UN Tourism, and opening remarks delivered by YB Dato’ Sri Tiong King Sing, Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture Malaysia.
MOTAC has invited country representatives from the UN Tourism Secretariat, speakers, industry experts and media from local to international levels to attend WTD and WTC.
Conference Topics and LocationThe event will foster discussions on various topics ranging from cross-sector collaboration, artificial intelligence and community empowerment, to navigating how sustainable growth can be achieved while safeguarding culture, conserving nature, and supporting global climate goals. MOTAC believes these relevant topics align with Malaysia MADANI values of sustainability, innovation and respect for cultural diversity.
Malacca has been chosen as the location for the WTC due to its renowned effectiveness in promoting culture and preserving heritage while balancing economic transformation with equity, ensuring long-term sustainable benefits for destinations, local communities, and travellers alike.
Technical visits will be conducted, including Dutch and heritage trails, Rasa-rasa Malacca culinary experiences, and Eco Cruise Malacca, offering partners and delegates comprehensive insights into Malacca’s rich history, heritage and culture.Concurrent Events and Public ParticipationIn conjunction, there will be a Visit Malaysia 2026 launching officiated by YAB Dato’ Sri Anwar Ibrahim, Prime Minister of Malaysia on 27th September 2025 at Encore, Melaka.
There are various WTD pocket events such as:
• Pameran Erique de Melacca
• Pameran Seni Warisan Kebudayaan Tidak Ketara
• Karnival WTD
• Pesta Konda Kondi
• Pesta Kopi and Kamu
• Larian Warisan
• Festival Layang-layang Antarabangsa
• Karnival Usahawan Negeri Melaka
• Visit Malaysia Travel Meet (VMTM)
• Tarian Zapin
These events are open to the public starting from 20th to 28th September. MOTAC encourages the public to take initiative and actively participate in cultural preservation and tourism transformation.Anticipated Impact and Future CommitmentMOTAC anticipates that the organization of WTD and WTC 2025 will significantly elevate Malacca’s international profile, not only as a UNESCO World Heritage Site but also as a model destination for sustainable tourism practices.
This landmark event underscores Malaysia’s commitment to positioning culture as a catalyst for sustainable development, socio-economic progress, and deeper international engagement. Anchored in the principles of Malaysia Madani, MOTAC will continue to champion tourism that celebrates heritage, inclusivity, and environmental stewardship, while fostering regional resilience and global cooperation for the shared prosperity of communities and the tourism sector alike.
MOTAC is committed to leveraging this event to set the stage for Visit Malaysia 2026, positioning Malaysia as a welcoming, innovative and forward-thinking hub in sustainable tourism and innovation.
