Have an open mind, tourism body tells S'gor PAS on water music festival
Published: Jan 29, 2026 1:16 PM
Updated: 4:29 PM
A tourism group has urged Selangor PAS Youth to adopt a more “open-minded approach and not prejudge” the water musical festival scheduled to be held in Bukit Bintang, Kuala Lumpur.
Malaysia Inbound Tourism Association (Mita) said the festival, which will run from May 1 to 4 alongside tourism Labour Day celebrations, is to honour workers.
"The Tourism Ministry's unprecedented three-day Labour Day tourism celebration is aimed at breaking away from feudal and traditional frameworks, creating a new era of events that are inclusive and interactive for all Malaysians and international tourists.
“Mita hopes the ministry will showcase Malaysia Madani multiculturalism, religious tolerance, unity, and openness through this innovative celebration of music and water," its president Mint Leong added in a statement.
‘No need to be flashy, sacrifice identity’
Yesterday, Selangor PAS Youth leader Sukri Omar clarified that his objection is not to the Visit Malaysia 2026 campaign, but he believes major events should showcase Malaysia’s unique identity rather than imitate foreign street parties that are not in line with local customs.
He suggested that Malaysia take inspiration from countries like Japan, South Korea, and Turkey, which have successfully promoted tourism while maintaining their cultural heritage.
Selangor PAS Youth member Sukri Omar
“If identity is sacrificed, we lose not only our sense of self but also the uniqueness that draws the world to us.
“Successful tourism is not the loudest or flashiest, but that which is rooted in values, culture, and a distinctly Malaysian identity,” he had said.
Sukri cautioned that the festival and street-party format could clash with local cultural norms, public decorum, and social harmony, particularly in Malaysia’s multiethnic, Muslim-majority setting.
Innovative tourism way forward
However, Leong contended that enjoying music and dancing in the streets is a testament to Malaysia's globalisation and a driving force to attract young tourists.
Further, she said the event would show the world that Malaysia is a safe, stable and vibrant multicultural nation.
“As long as we respect the sensitivities of race and religion, Malaysia should showcase its open-mindedness,” she said, adding that Mita also fully supports the government's efforts to make Malaysia a top Muslim-friendly tourism destination.
“If identity is sacrificed, we lose not only our sense of self but also the uniqueness that draws the world to us.
“Successful tourism is not the loudest or flashiest, but that which is rooted in values, culture, and a distinctly Malaysian identity,” he had said.
Sukri cautioned that the festival and street-party format could clash with local cultural norms, public decorum, and social harmony, particularly in Malaysia’s multiethnic, Muslim-majority setting.
Innovative tourism way forward
However, Leong contended that enjoying music and dancing in the streets is a testament to Malaysia's globalisation and a driving force to attract young tourists.
Further, she said the event would show the world that Malaysia is a safe, stable and vibrant multicultural nation.
“As long as we respect the sensitivities of race and religion, Malaysia should showcase its open-mindedness,” she said, adding that Mita also fully supports the government's efforts to make Malaysia a top Muslim-friendly tourism destination.
She said that supporting the water-themed music festival and promoting Muslim-friendly tourism are complementary.
"We are breaking away from old frameworks by attracting global young tourists through an innovative Malaysian tourism music festival, while also deepening our presence in the Muslim tourism market.
“These two efforts are not contradictory; instead, they demonstrate Malaysia's ability to handle diverse needs," she added.
Sukri had also objected to the closure of several roads for the festival, arguing that it would impact urban mobility, small business operations, public safety, and the public’s comfort.
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Malaysians having fun is strictly NOT permitted - haram!
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