Malaysia's domestic tourism expenditure reached RM34 billion in the first quarter of 2026, marking a 15.8% increase compared to the same period last year [1, 2, 3]. Total domestic visitors rose 7.2% year-on-year to 74.7 million, contributing to the spending growth [1, 2, 3].
On a quarter-on-quarter basis, from Q4 2025 to Q1 2026, domestic tourism spending edged up 0.9% [1, 2, 3]. Chief Statistician Datuk Seri Dr Mohd Uzir Mahidin said the figures reflected "not only higher travel activity but also an increase in average spending per visitor," noting a 4.5% rise quarter-on-quarter that points to ongoing tourism resilience [1].
Festive travel around Chinese New Year and Aidilfitri boosted domestic travel demand, supporting stronger activity in the sector during the quarter [1, 2, 3]. Several high-frequency indicators also confirmed growth, with highway traffic up 1.0% year-on-year, retail fuel sales rising 8.0%, and domestic air passenger arrivals increasing 9.6% [1, 2, 3].
The accommodation sector posted a 15.4% revenue increase in Q1 2026. Hotel occupancy improved compared to Q1 2025, with four-star hotels reaching 62.9% from 62.4% and three-star hotels climbing to 70.4% from 69.3% [1, 2, 3]. City hotel occupancy rose to 64.1% from 61.8%, while coastal hotels saw a smaller gain to 59.9% from 59.3% [3].
The growth in spending and visitor numbers points to strengthened domestic travel activity early in the year. The government and industry will likely monitor these trends as Malaysia moves through 2026.
