Tourism sectors drive economic growth in Malaysia and Indonesia

Tourism sectors in Malaysia and Indonesia have reported significant economic contributions and growth. In Malaysia, the tourism industry generated RM323 billion in 2025, accounting for 15.9% of the nation's GDP. According to the 2025 Tourism Satellite Account from the Department of Statistics Malaysia, the industry grew by 8.6% compared to the previous year. This growth was driven by both inbound and domestic tourism, with retail trade representing the largest share of revenue at 50.6%. The sector also employed 3.7 million people, representing 22.1% of Malaysia's total workforce.

In Indonesia, Deputy Minister of Tourism Ni Luh Puspa announced that tourism foreign exchange earnings reached $8.43 billion in the first half of 2026. This follows a strong performance in 2025, which saw 15.39 million international visitor arrivals and total tourism foreign exchange of $18.27 billion. The ministry emphasized a shift toward prioritizing the quality and sustainability of tourism development alongside increasing visitor numbers.