KUALA LUMPUR, October 10 — Malaysians can now claim up to RM1,000 in personal income tax relief for entrance fees to local tourist attractions and cultural programmes, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced during the Budget 2026 presentation.
The initiative, launched in conjunction with Visit Malaysia Year 2026, aims to encourage domestic travel while promoting national heritage and local arts. Anwar said the government targets to attract 47 million tourists and generate RM329 billion in tourism revenue next year.
To support this, the government has allocated over RM700 million for the tourism sector, including RM500 million for the Visit Malaysia 2026 campaign and RM60 million for promotional activities and event organisation.
Additional allocations include RM50 million to support local craftsmen, RM25 million for upgrading tourism facilities and preserving Unesco heritage sites, and RM20 million to boost health tourism. New tax incentives will also be introduced to encourage tourism development.
Including up to RM500,000 in renovation deductions and 100% income tax exemptions for international-level tourism and cultural event organisers.
