# Malaysia tourism trends and growth

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/malaysia-tourism-trends-and-growth
> Updated: 2026-08-27T23:21:30.000Z. Sources: 2. Developments: 2.

In 2025, Malaysia became the most visited country in the ASEAN region, recording 42.2 million tourist arrivals and overtaking Thailand. During this period, Vietnam showed the fastest growth in the region, while Singapore and Indonesia followed in fourth and fifth place, respectively.

By the first half of 2026, Malaysia reported continued growth in specific international markets. Arrivals from Australia increased by 8.1 per cent compared to the previous year, reaching 252,086 visitors. Additionally, visitor numbers from Central Asia rose by 23.3 per cent, with significant growth noted in Uzbekistan and Tajikistan. Officials attributed these trends to improved air connectivity and Malaysia’s status as a ‘Muslim-friendly destination’.

## Timeline

### 2026-08-27: Tourism Malaysia reports growth in Australian and Central Asian markets

Tourism Malaysia reports rising visitor numbers, with an 8.1% increase from Australia and a 23.3% surge from Central Asian markets in the first half of 2026.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/tourism-malaysia-reports-growth-in-australian-and-central-asian-markets

### 2026-08-12: Malaysia leads ASEAN tourism arrivals in 2025

Malaysia has become the most visited country in ASEAN for 2025 with 42.2 million arrivals, overtaking Thailand. Vietnam shows rapid growth, while Thailand remains a top choice for European summer travelers.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/malaysia-leads-asean-tourism-arrivals-in-2025

---
Cite as: Malaysia tourism trends and growth. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/malaysia-tourism-trends-and-growth