By V. Sivaji
The official launch ceremony of the Star Karnival Cuti Cuti Malaysia was held at the Gurney Paragon Mall.
Guest of honour was Dato Yeoh Soon Hin, Deputy Chairman of Tourism Malaysia.
The event which ends tomorrow (Nov 2( features the best of Malaysian culture, food and lifestyle in celebration.
Joining Yeoh was Star Media Group, Group CEO, Chan Seng Fatt, Datin Rafidah Idris, Timbalan Ketua Pengarah (Perancangan) Tourism Malaysia; Abdul Hadi Che Man, Pengarah TM Northern Region, Dr. Annuar Mohamed, Motac Penang Director and shoppers..
In his welcoming speech, Yeoh said that the Penang edition is part of the nationwide campaign that previously took place in Kuantan, the Klang Valley and Sarawak.
“With the tagline “Explore. Experience. Excite.”, this collaboration between Tourism Malaysia and Star Media Group aims to reignite interest in domestic travel and foster community participation through cultural experiences that strengthen the nation’s domestic tourism.
“The Star Karnival Cuti-Cuti Malaysia is more than just an event — it is a platform that celebrates Malaysia’s culture, food and creativity. Penang’s unique blend of heritage, art and innovation makes it the perfect destination to carry this message forward. As we march towards Visit Malaysia 2026, let us continue to support local travel, empower communities and celebrate the diversity that makes our country special.” said Yeoh.
There are some 55 booths showcasing their products and services at the carnival.
Other highlights of the showcase are cultural performances reflecting Malaysia’s diverse heritage and traditional arts, Heritage food) of Penang and across the nation, celebrating Malaysia’s culinary traditions, Exclusive travel deals and holiday packages promoting destinations across Malaysia, Artisan and craft booths showcasing handmade creations by local entrepreneurs, Performances and meet-and-greet sessions with popular local talents and digital creators like Sarah Suhairi and Wani Kayrie among others. There is even a stall all the way from Kuching Sarawak too.
“In 2024, Malaysia recorded an impressive 260.1 million domestic visitors, generating approximately RM106.7 billion in tourism expenditure — a remarkable 25.7% increase compared to the previous year. The upward trend continued into the first quarter of 2025, with domestic travel reaching 69.7 million visitors, marking an 18.9% growth as compared to the same quarter of previous year.
“Gearing up for Visit Malaysia 2026, the Star Karnival Cuti-Cuti Malaysia 2025 is making its way across the country with the main goal of endorsing and boosting domestic tourism while also celebrating local cultural heritage and fostering meaningful community engagement,” shared Yeoh.
The carnival will move on to cities in Johor, Sabah and Kuching next.
