The New Year’s Eve atmosphere in Kuala Lumpur is set to reach new heights with the Visit Malaysia 2026 Countdown Festival at Pavilion Kuala Lumpur. Jointly organised by the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC) and The Fame Events, the celebration will set the stage for a spectacular year ahead and ignite the national campaign with a powerful showcase of culture, creativity and unity.
The New Year’s Eve Countdown, starting at 7.00pm, will feature a synchronised showcase of pyro-musical fireworks, laser projections, and an iconic 3D anamorphic moment starring the campaign’s beloved Malayan Sun Bear mascots, Wira and Manja who will welcome the crowd into the New Year.
Visitors can also expect a thrilling evening of performances and cultural showcases that reflect Malaysia’s diversity and talent. The celebration presents among the biggest artist line-up in the country with Shila Amzah, Aina Abdul, Belle Sisoski, Vanessa Reynauld, Kidd Santhe, The Kuans, KLP48, Rezza Shah, Nazu, Danson Ooi, Euzen,and Penny. Together they will bring a powerful mix of music, tradition and contemporary entertainment to the main stage.
Designed as a strong representation of Malaysia on the world stage, the Visit Malaysia 2026 Countdown Festival will be the first major public moment leading into the country’s tourism year and is expected to attract both local audiences and international visitors.
An early start to the celebration
To extend the festivities beyond the heart of the city, several parallel events and activities are held, offering visitors a true glimpse of Malaysia’s rich heritage and authentic creative spirit, embodying the essence of ‘Truly Asia’. Look out for the following on 31 December 2025:
- VM2026 Bazaar at Pavilion Bukit Jalil (Piazza) (10.00am – 10.00pm). Featuring over 30 local entrepreneurs, visitors can explore local food and beverage offerings, homegrown brands, artisanal crafts and unique gifts, alongside interactive experiences including virtual reality showcase.
- VM2026 Arts & Culture Showcase at Fahrenheit 88 (Main Atrium) (10.00am – 10.00pm) invites visitors to connect with Malaysia’s heritage through immersive, hands-on experiences such as batik art, porcelain making, and wau decoration among others. Visitors can also celebrate in heritage style through traditional wear rentals featuring. The experience is complemented by curated merchandise, stamp redemptions and surprise flash mobs by Wira and Manja.
The Visit Malaysia 2026 Countdown Festival is also supported by Tourism Malaysia and Kuala Lumpur City Hall as key partners, as well as Istana Budaya, National Department for Culture and Arts, Department of National Heritage and Malaysian Handicraft Development Corporation as strategic partners.