Organised by Tourism Malaysia Vientiane in strategic collaboration with the Embassy of Malaysia in the Lao PDR, the two-day event aims to promote Malaysia as a top-choice destination for leisure travel and higher education while strengthening cultural diplomacy and people-to-people connections between the two countries.

Held under the theme “Let’s Discover Malaysia: A Perfect Destination for Everyone,” the fair showcases Malaysia’s diverse tourism attractions, educational opportunities and cultural experiences to Lao visitors, travellers and students.

 Mrs. Norli Muadza Mohd Noor, Ambassador of Malaysia to the Lao PDR

In her opening address, Mrs. Norli Muadza Mohd Noor, Ambassador of Malaysia to the Lao PDR, emphasised the fair’s role in strengthening bilateral relations.

“This fair represents much more than a promotional event—it serves as a vital bridge for cultural diplomacy, strengthening people-to-people connectivity, and deepening the enduring friendship between Malaysia and Lao PDR,” remarked Ambassador Norli.

The fair serves as an important regional platform to build momentum for the Visit Malaysia 2026–2027 campaign, originally launched by Malaysia’s Prime Minister, YAB Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim.

The campaign features the endangered Malayan Sun Bear as its official mascot, symbolising Malaysia’s commitment to biodiversity conservation, environmental awareness and eco-tourism. Through this initiative, Malaysia aims to showcase its natural landscapes, cultural heritage and diverse visitor experiences while encouraging responsible tourism.

Mrs. Baizuri Baharum, Senior Director of the International Promotion Division (Southeast Asia) at Tourism Malaysia.

Highlighting the strong performance of the Lao market, Mrs. Baizuri Baharum, Senior Director of the International Promotion Division (Southeast Asia) at Tourism Malaysia, noted consistent year-on-year growth in visitor arrivals from Laos.

Malaysia welcomed 31,759 Lao arrivals in 2025. From January to August 2026, the country recorded 25,220 arrivals, representing a 24.02 per cent increase compared with the same period in 2025.

Improved connectivity continues to support this growth, with AirAsia operating three direct flights per week between Vientiane and Kuala Lumpur. Additional connections through Bangkok and Singapore provide further travel options for Lao visitors.

Expanding beyond traditional tourism promotion, this year’s fair also highlights higher education opportunities in Malaysia.

Three education consultants—Expert Education, GSAC (Genius Study Abroad Consultant), and Global Education Alliance (LS Education)—are participating to showcase tertiary study pathways and help Lao students explore opportunities for further education in Malaysia.

Their participation reinforces the fair’s broader mission of promoting educational exchange, international exposure and closer people-to-people ties between the two countries.

The fair features 16 interactive booths, including ten Lao travel agencies: Lao Worldwide Travel, Moukda Travel, Vientiane Travel, Seng Travel, MD Travel, PMC Travel, Sipha Travel, Jia Tai Travel, Paris Travel and Santiphab Travel.

Visitors can explore travel packages, seek information and discover opportunities to plan their next trip to Malaysia. Those who make travel or education bookings by placing a deposit during the fair will receive lucky draw coupons for a chance to win grand prizes on the event’s final day.

The programme also features live Malaysian cultural dance performances, stage games and interactive promotional showcases, offering visitors an engaging introduction to Malaysia’s vibrant cultural diversity.

The Malaysia Travel and Education Fair 2026 reflects the growing potential of tourism and education to strengthen cooperation between Malaysia and the Lao PDR.

As Malaysia advances its Visit Malaysia 2026–2027 campaign, the event provides a valuable platform for encouraging travel, exploring educational opportunities and deepening mutual understanding.

By bringing tourism operators, education consultants and the public together, the fair aims to transform interest into meaningful opportunities for travel, study and lasting friendship between the two nations.

KPL