TEBEDU: The Immigration, Customs, Quarantine and Security Complex (ICQS) Tebedu was among the key gateways activated for the nationwide welcoming programme marking the official launch of the Visit Malaysia 2026 (VMY2026) campaign on January 1.
The programme at ICQS Tebedu was officiated by Acting Serian Division Resident Abdul Khalid Manap, reflecting Sarawak’s participation in the national initiative led by Tourism Malaysia to create a positive first impression for international visitors arriving in the country.
The welcoming initiative forms part of a simultaneous rollout at 55 major entry points across 13 states and three Federal Territories, underscoring Malaysia’s readiness to receive global travellers as Visit Malaysia 2026 officially begins.
In Sarawak, nine entry points were selected for the programme, comprising five land checkpoints namely ICQS Sungai Tujuh, Tebedu, Tedungan, Pandaruan and Biawak, as well as four air gateways at Kuching International Airport, Sibu Airport, Miri Airport and Bintulu Airport.
At ICQS Tebedu, arriving visitors were greeted with a warm reception that included the distribution of exclusive Visit Malaysia 2026 souvenirs, featuring themed merchandise such as keychains of the campaign’s official mascots, Wira and Manja.
According to Tourism Malaysia, the Visit Malaysia 2026 campaign targets 43 million international tourist arrivals, with the aim of strengthening the tourism sector as one of the country’s key economic drivers.
Anchored by the theme song “Surreal Experiences”, more than 300 programmes and events have been scheduled throughout the year, highlighting Malaysia’s cultural diversity through major festivals including Tadau Ka’amatan in Borneo and the Gawai celebration.
The implementation of the programme at ICQS Tebedu also reflects close collaboration between Tourism Malaysia, the Sarawak Government and tourism industry partners in positioning Sarawak as an inclusive, innovative and sustainable tourism destination.
Also present were Acting Tebedu District Officer Angela Thomas, Acting Serian District Officer Dayang Nurhazira, Serian District Council secretary representative Mahathir Zaaba, as well as representatives from Tourism Malaysia. -UKASnews
