Cambodia-Malaysia Tourism Cooperation Expands Through Regional Partnership
Cambodia and Malaysia have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening tourism, cultural exchange, and regional connectivity during the 2026 Malaysia Tourism and Trade Expo held in Phnom Penh.
The two-day event, organized at AEON Mall Phnom Penh, brought together tourism operators, airlines, healthcare tourism representatives, and private sector partners from both countries to promote stronger bilateral cooperation and support the recovery of ASEAN tourism.
Tourism Remains Key Economic Driver for Cambodia
Cambodian Minister of Tourism Huot Hak highlighted that tourism continues to play a major role in Cambodia’s economic development strategy.
According to the minister, Cambodia welcomed approximately 5.4 million international tourists in 2025 and more than 1.5 million visitors during the first quarter of 2026, showing strong recovery momentum after recent global economic challenges.
“Tourism is considered green gold and a major engine for economic growth and local livelihoods,” the minister stated during the event.
He also emphasized Cambodia’s ongoing efforts to improve regional cooperation, expand airline connectivity, and launch joint tourism campaigns with ASEAN partners, including Malaysia.
“Visit Cambodia in Green Season” Campaign Promoted
During the expo, Cambodian officials also promoted the “Visit Cambodia in Green Season” campaign, which encourages year-round tourism and highlights the country’s natural beauty, eco-tourism destinations, and cultural heritage during off-peak travel seasons.
The initiative aims to attract more international visitors while supporting sustainable tourism development across Cambodia.
Malaysia Highlights Cultural Exchange and Connectivity
Malaysian Ambassador to Cambodia Shaharuddin Onn said the expo reflects the deep and long-standing relationship between the two nations.
He noted that tourism is not only an economic sector but also an important bridge connecting people, cultures, traditions, and communities.
“Tourism connects our people and strengthens relationships between societies,” the ambassador explained, adding that cultural understanding can be built through food, hospitality, history, and shared experiences.
Malaysia also used the event to promote its multicultural identity, tourism destinations, and medical tourism services to Cambodian travelers.
Visitors Enjoy Cultural Performances and Travel Promotions
The 2026 Malaysia Tourism and Trade Expo featured:
Traditional Malaysian fashion displays
Live cooking demonstrations
Cultural dance performances
Free Batik painting activities
Travel package promotions
Medical tourism information
Lucky draws with prizes including airline tickets
Visitors attending the expo had opportunities to learn more about Malaysian travel destinations while also experiencing cultural activities from both countries.
Tourism Seen as Important Diplomatic Tool
Officials from both nations agreed that stronger tourism cooperation will help improve ASEAN’s tourism competitiveness while promoting sustainable development, regional connectivity, and cultural exchange.
Tourism is increasingly becoming an important diplomatic tool in strengthening the nearly 70-year friendship and partnership between Cambodia and Malaysia based on mutual respect and long-term cooperation.
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