Fijians encouraged to make Malaysia their 2026 holiday destination

Malaysia has invited Fijians to consider it as their next holiday destination in 2026, with a special focus on Batu Pahat, a town with historic ties to Fiji.

The High Commissioner of Malaysia to Fiji, Nor’Azam Mohd Idrus, extended the invitation during a reception this morning at Rumah Malaysia to promote Visit Malaysia Year 2026.

Acting Prime Minister Filimoni Vosarogo attended the event, along with government officials and members of the diplomatic corps.

“If you’re ever tempted to explore beyond these beautiful shores of golden sand and sunshine, mark your calendar for 2026 and make Malaysia your next holiday destination,” Nor’ Azam said.

“Perhaps start with Batu Pahat – a town with warm hearts and historic ties to Fiji – where the past connects us, and where the future promises new memories waiting to be made.”

The High Commissioner highlighted the deep friendship between Malaysia and Fiji, which dates back to the 1950s during the Malayan Emergency when 1,600 Fijian soldiers served with distinction in Malaysia.

“Their sacrifices created a foundation of solidarity that continues to inspire us today. It is a legacy that will never be forgotten,” he said.

Malaysian High Commissioner Nor’Azam Mohd Idrus delivers his remarks on the launch of the Visit Malaysia Year 2026 campaign at the Malaysia High Commissioner’s Residence in Tamavua on November 11, 2025.

Photo: Kaneta Naimatau

Visit Malaysia 2026 aims to welcome 47 million visitors and generate RM147.1 billion (approximately FJ$81.118 billion) in tourism receipts.

The campaign stresses eco-tourism and responsible travel, aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

Nor’ Azam said Malaysia offered visitors rich culture, diverse experiences, ancient rainforests, pristine islands, and unique wildlife.

“Our food is our North Star – guiding us to the feeling of home no matter how far we roam,” he said, describing Malaysian cuisine as a masterpiece best experienced through taste.

The reception featured traditional Malaysian dishes including butter rice, ayam goreng berempah, rendang daging, sate ayam, roti canai, and kuih prepared by PERWAKILAN Suva, the Ladies Association of the High Commission.

Feedback: kaneta.naimatau@fijisun.com.fj