KUANTAN: Pahang's highlands and Taman Negara, one of the world's oldest tropical rainforests, will once again take centre stage as key attractions as the east coast state targets 15 million visitor arrivals this year.
Tourist arrivals to Pahang have risen steadily, from 10.18 million in 2022 to 13.2 million in 2023, followed by 13.7 million in 2024, and have surpassed 13.8 million as of September last year.
State Unity, Tourism and Culture Committee chairman Leong Yu Man said that in conjunction with Visit Malaysia Year 2026 (VM2026), the state aims to generate about RM13.4 billion in revenue.
"The state's natural treasures, especially its highlands, eco-tourism destinations and beaches, will remain top attractions for both domestic and international visitors. We have planned more than 50 international events this year," she told reporters after welcoming visitors in conjunction with VM2026 at Sultan Ahmad Shah Airport here today.
Visit Malaysia 2026 Malayan sun bear mascots, Wira and Manja, accompanied Leong as she presented passengers with goodie bags at the airport's arrival hall. Also present was Tourism Pahang general manager Kamaruddin Ibrahim.
Leong said popular highland destinations, namely Genting Highlands, Janda Baik and Bukit Tinggi in Bentong, Fraser's Hill in Raub, and the Cameron Highlands, are expected to continue attracting a steady stream of visitors this year.
"Taman Negara remains a favourite among foreign tourists, especially those from Europe, while Pulau Tioman continues to lure visitors with its sandy beaches, rich marine life and lush rainforests.
"Besides the popular beaches in Kuantan, Pekan and Rompin, the Lipis Geopark is among the attractions being extensively promoted as Pahang aims for Lipis to be recognised as a Unesco Global Geopark," she said.
Leong said the Pahang government plans to establish direct flights to and from Sultan Ahmad Shah Airport to further boost visitor arrivals.
"Currently, Malaysia Airlines and Scoot, the low-cost subsidiary of Singapore Airlines, operate flights to Kuantan. We hope more airlines will service the Kuantan route, including Sarawak-owned carrier AirBorneo," she said.
