Selangor, a state in Malaysia, is experiencing a remarkable tourism boom in 2024. By June, the state had already welcomed 3.6 million visitors, surpassing the halfway point of its ambitious goal to attract 7 million tourists by year’s end. This success can be attributed to a strategic focus on promoting ecotourism, heritage sites, and agro-tourism, along with a strong emphasis on domestic travel.
Looking ahead, Selangor is preparing for the ‘Visit Selangor Year 2025’ campaign, aiming to further elevate the state’s tourism profile. The campaign, scheduled to launch next month, is designed to attract 8 million visitors by highlighting Selangor’s diverse attractions and unique experiences. This ambitious initiative will be supported by an international advertising campaign on 15 AirAsia planes, ensuring significant exposure to potential tourists across Asia and beyond.
The state’s northern corridor, spanning from Sabak Bernam to Kuala Selangor, boasts pristine beaches, rivers, and wetlands, making it a paradise for eco-friendly travel and outdoor enthusiasts. Kuala Selangor, in particular, is renowned for its rich biodiversity, including the famous Kuala Selangor Nature Park and firefly colonies along the Selangor River. These natural wonders have drawn numerous domestic tourists seeking nature-immersive experiences.
Selangor’s southern corridor, encompassing Sepang and Kuala Langat, offers a blend of modern attractions and cultural heritage sites. Sepang, famed for the Sepang International Circuit, which hosts prestigious motorsport events such as Formula 1 and MotoGP, also boasts natural wonders like beaches and mangrove forests. Kuala Langat, known for its historical and cultural significance, presents visitors with a glimpse into Selangor’s rich tapestry through heritage sites and traditional villages.
The ‘Visit Selangor Year 2025’ campaign is expected to feature over 60 major programs and events, with a strong emphasis on ecotourism, agro-tourism, and arts and culture. These initiatives aim to cater to diverse interests and ensure a memorable experience for both domestic and international tourists.
Ecotourism destinations such as the Kuala Selangor Nature Park, the Forest Research Institute Malaysia (FRIM), and Taman Negeri Selangor offer immersive experiences that showcase the state’s commitment to sustainable tourism. Agro-tourism is another thriving sector, with farms and plantations in Selangor providing visitors with a chance to engage with agricultural life firsthand. Fruit farms, fishing villages, and rice paddies allow tourists to participate in activities like fruit picking, visiting local markets, and learning about traditional farming practices.
The campaign, with a projected budget of RM11.7 billion in tourism receipts, aims to significantly boost Selangor’s economy by attracting millions of visitors. Key highlights of the campaign include major cultural events, international exhibitions, and sports tournaments, all of which are expected to draw substantial crowds. The state is also investing in upgrading its tourism infrastructure, including improvements to transport networks, new hotels, and enhanced facilities at key tourist attractions.
With its strategic focus on promoting its ecotourism, heritage, and agro-tourism offerings, combined with the ambitious ‘Visit Selangor Year 2025’ campaign, Selangor is poised to continue its tourism success story. As the state attracts more international attention through its AirAsia advertising campaign and a host of major events, Selangor is set to exceed its 8 million tourist goal for 2025, with the potential for even greater achievements in the years to come.
