The country received approximately 10.65 million international visitors from January to March. This marks a 5.4 per cent rise from Q1 2025. The figures were reported by the tourism ministry. The total beats the prior record by nearly half a million visitors. It also tops pre-pandemic levels. Arrivals topped pre-pandemic levels from Q1 2019.
Surge from China and Key Markets
China drove much of the growth. Arrivals from China contributed significantly to the growth. Chinese New Year sparked the boom. Airlines boosted connectivity. China Eastern Airlines and other Chinese airlines boosted connectivity during Chinese New Year.
February contributed strongly to the Q1 total. It was the first time a month topped three million. Australia showed growth. ASEAN stayed the top region. It added over 350,000 visitors. Most ASEAN nations expanded between 3.5 and 54.3 per cent. Some ASEAN markets varied. East Asia rose by more than 200,000. Europe showed gains, including from Turkiye. Central Asia showed strong growth.
Broader Regional Gains
Europe showed broad strength. Most European markets increased. The Americas, Oceania, and Europe each added over 10,000 visitors. Twelve markets sent more than 100,000 each. India and South Korea saw slight variations. Longer stays from Europeans boost receipts. The ministry targets this group.
The result signals robust recovery and cements tourism as an economic pillar. Hospitality and aviation stand to gain. China Eastern Airlines continues to expand its Malaysia routes. Hotels see higher occupancy. Related services thrive. Regional travel grows amid better connectivity.
Investors should watch Q2 data and new route announcements. Further gains from China and Europe point to steady revenue growth. Policymakers are targeting higher receipts through focused promotional campaigns.
