Malaysia edges past Thailand in race for Southeast Asian tourists
Tourism Malaysia reported
21.1 million international arrivals in 2026, slightly above Thailand’s 20.9
million recorded between January and August, according to Thailand’s Ministry
of Tourism and Sports. Malaysia did not specify the latest date covered by its
figure.
The competition is also
visible in the countries’ growing Chinese visitor markets. Malaysia received
2.56 million Chinese travelers during the first half of the year, up 17 percent
from a year earlier. Thailand welcomed 3.54 million Chinese visitors,
representing 16 percent growth.
Malaysia recorded about
42 million foreign arrivals last year, compared with 33 million in Thailand.
Both destinations have seen tourism rebound since international air travel resumed
following the Covid-19 pandemic.
Malaysia is promoting its
multicultural identity through its Visit Malaysia campaign as it seeks to
attract more travelers and encourage longer stays and higher spending.
Bill Heinecke, founder
and chairman of Bangkok-based Minor International, said Malaysia was becoming
an increasingly important tourism destination in Southeast Asia.
Thailand expects to
receive 34 million international visitors this year and is also seeking to
strengthen its appeal, particularly in health and wellness tourism.
