‘Art Tourism’ is Malaysia’s unique selling point for VMY 2026
(Pic :pemetaanbudaya.jkkn) Professor Emeritus Datuk Dr. Mohamed Ghouse Nasuruddin is advocating for a significant integration of the arts into the Malaysian government's tourism strategy, particularly focusing on the upcoming Visit Malaysia Year 2026. He emphasizes the distinct artistic heritage of Malaysia, stemming from its diverse cultural background, and proposes the adoption of "art tourism" as a key attraction for visitors.
This is a step forward in promoting the values of Malaysia as our identity. This encourages inclusivity among local communities and preservation of our heritage. Art and eco tourism are part of positive move towards sustainability specifically under Sustainable Development Goal, target 4.
Mohamed Ghouse, an Emeritus Professor of the Performing Arts at the University Sains Malaysia’s School of Arts, urges stakeholders to recognize the unique potential of Malaysia's arts and culture. He suggests marketing the country through various artistic forms, including dance, music, theater, and eco-tourism, moving beyond the conventional emphasis on beaches, food, and shopping malls.
Highlighting the economic benefits, Mohamed Ghouse underscores the arts industry's revenue generation and employment opportunities.
He urges the government to view the arts as a fundamental and integral element in nation-building, stressing that it should not be mere lip service but necessitate active participation from local communities.
He proposes leveraging Malaysia's embassies and tourism offices globally to showcase its rich artistic heritage, drawing parallels with the promotion of the traditional Indonesian percussion orchestra, gamelan, in Indonesian embassies worldwide.
Despite the short timeframe leading up to Visit Malaysia Year 2026, Mohamed Ghouse insists on initiating the process, emphasizing that it is crucial to start somewhere. He suggests a shift in policy to lay down a vision and strategies that genuinely incorporate the arts into tourism promotion. The involvement of local communities is key to ensuring authenticity and resonance.
Referring to the government's target of 26.1 million foreign tourist arrivals in 2026, Mohamed Ghouse recommends substantial investments in the arts. He proposes organizing international conferences on the arts, including heritage, to attract global attention. Local tourism practitioners are urge to incorporate Malaysia arts, culture and green practices to encourage more visitors and promote Malaysia uniqueness.
Furthermore, he sees art tourism as a means to not only develop the arts sector and its practitioners but also to cultivate an appreciation for arts and culture among the local population. Mohamed Ghouse envisions that incorporating the arts into the tourism strategy can extend beyond traditional forms of promotion, including showcasing traditional dances from states like Sabah and Sarawak, contributing to both cultural preservation and global visibility.
In summary, Mohamed Ghouse advocates for a comprehensive and strategic inclusion of the arts in Malaysia's tourism promotion, viewing it as a unique selling point that can contribute significantly to Visit Malaysia Year 2026 and beyond.
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