MALAYSIA PROMOTES VM2026 TO FINNISH TRAVELLERS

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 15 (Bernama) -- The Embassy of Malaysia in Helsinki, Finland, has launched the Visit Malaysia Year 2026 (VM2026) campaign with the theme “Malaysia Truly Asia - Your Next Tropical Escape.”

The event, held on Friday, focused on Malaysia’s national tourism campaign and its goal to strengthen ties between Malaysia and Finland in travel.

It also aimed to position Malaysia as a diverse, sustainable, and unforgettable destination, the Embassy said in a statement. 

In his opening remarks, the Embassy’s Chargé d’Affaires ad interim, Al-Fadil Adam, highlighted Finland as a valued and growing partner for Malaysia’s tourism sector.

“We are proud that Malaysia has become a destination that meets these interests, offering not only our tropical climate and pristine rainforests, but also vibrant cities, UNESCO World Heritage sites, diverse cultures, and world-renowned cuisine,” he said at the launch.

Al-Fadil added that Finnish travellers appreciate Malaysia’s nature, culture and warm hospitality, especially its emergence as a sustainable tropical destination.

He expressed hope that the VM2026 campaign would further deepen Malaysia-Finland relations and encourage more Finnish travellers to experience Malaysia firsthand.

“Finnish travellers are discerning and curious, seeking authentic experiences, nature, wellness and soft adventures,” he said, noting that Finland remains an important and expanding market for Malaysia.

The event drew Finnish media, travel professionals and industry partners. It served to highlight Malaysia’s national tourism campaign and its goals in the Nordic region.

The embassy said the VM2026 campaign builds on the legacy of the “Malaysia Truly Asia” brand and introduced its new mascots, Wira and Manja, a pair of sun-bear characters symbolising Malaysia’s natural heritage.

The launch also featured a campaign presentation, a Malaysian-themed reception and shared insights from Finnish travellers.

-- BERNAMA