Summary

  • Perikatan Nasional leaders criticise the “Visit Malaysia 2026” video for excluding mosques.

  • Accusations of bias and calls for clarification were raised over the perceived neglect of Muslim sensitivities.

  • They demand a revised video showcasing mosques and an apology from the Tourism Ministry.

Perikatan Nasional leaders have questioned the absence of mosques in a 41-second video uploaded on the Tourism Malaysia Facebook page.

Among them was Bersatu vice-president Radzi Jidin, who demanded an explanation from Tourism, Arts, and Culture Minister Tiong King Sing.

Bersatu Youth said it “strongly condemns” the failure to highlight Islamic elements and the beautiful heritage of mosques in the “Visit Malaysia 2026” video.

“The video, which is supposed to promote the uniqueness of Malaysia’s diverse cultures and heritage, clearly marginalises the majority of the country’s population by only showcasing places of worship such as churches and temples.

“This is yet another example of the ministry’s negligence and disregard for Muslim sensitivities, which has occurred several times under the same minister’s leadership,” alleged exco member Ad Adib Shaharuddin.

He added that mosques in Malaysia, such as the Putra Mosque in Putrajaya, the Sri Sendayan Mosque in Negeri Sembilan, and the Crystal Mosque in Terengganu, are not only symbols of the beauty of Islamic architecture but also represent unity and the grandeur of Islamic teachings in the country.

“Failing to feature mosques as part of Malaysia’s tourism treasures is not only an insult to Islamic heritage but also reflects a tourism promotion policy that is neither inclusive nor reflective of the true reality of Malaysian society,” he added.

Bersatu Youth demanded that the promotional video be replaced with a new one that is more balanced, incorporating elements of mosques and the beauty of Islamic architecture.

The wing also said the Tourism Ministry must apologise to Muslims for the “failure to respect the sensitivities of the largest religion in Malaysia”.

“We wish to emphasise that this issue is not only about tourism promotion but also challenges social unity and harmony in a multicultural society that depends on awareness of the sensitivities of all parties,” he added.

Doubts and suspicions

Echoing this, PAS Youth information chief Nadzir Helmi asked if this was a mistake or a deliberate action driven by a specific agenda.

“Through comments from the Malay-Muslim community across various platforms, it is clear that many are questioning the absence of symbols of Islamic teachings, Islamic architectural elements, and Malay heritage architecture that symbolise the culture and identity of the country. This has raised doubts and suspicions.

“Therefore, PAS Youth urges the Tourism Ministry to provide an explanation regarding this issue and take immediate action,” he added.

The video montage featured several popular tourist destinations such as Petaling Street and Central Market, the Batu Caves Temple, the Christ Church in Malacca (constructed by the Dutch), the Mulu Cave in Sarawak, and Skywalk Langkawi.

Malaysiakini has contacted the ministry for comment.

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