Music, tradition, crafts showcase for tourism day

KUALA LUMPUR, 1 OCTOBER 2026 —

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia — A vibrant convergence of traditional and contemporary music, artisanal crafts, and cultural heritage marked the celebration of World Tourism Day in Kuala Lumpur, underscoring the nation’s commitment to showcasing its diverse identity to the global stage.

The celebration was jointly organised by the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (Motac) and the National Academy of Arts, Culture and Heritage (Aswara), reflecting a coordinated effort to promote Malaysia’s cultural assets as a primary driver of tourism. The proceedings commenced with a ceremonial cutting of pulut kuning, a dish of yellow glutinous rice traditionally served at Malay celebrations.

This ritual act symbolised thanksgiving and blessings, setting a tone of gratitude and cultural respect for the gathering.

Following the ceremonial opening, the event featured a dynamic musical performance by Aswara’s Malaysian Fusion Crew. The ensemble demonstrated the versatility of Malaysian musical traditions by blending traditional instruments with contemporary styles. The performance included the sape, a traditional Sarawakian string instrument, alongside the erhu, accordion, cajón, rebana, violin, keyboard, and acoustic guitar. This fusion highlighted the adaptability of local musical heritage in modern contexts.

The Malaysian Fusion Crew is composed of students, alumni, and teaching staff from Aswara. The group has a distinguished track record, having represented Malaysia at various international events. Their participation in the World Tourism Day celebration reinforced the academy’s role in nurturing talent that can effectively communicate Malaysia’s cultural narrative to a global audience.

In parallel with the musical performances, the hotel’s lobby was transformed into a cultural hub featuring booths dedicated to local crafts and interactive activities. Among the highlights was a batik making station, allowing attendees to engage directly with one of Malaysia’s most iconic traditional arts. These hands-on experiences provided a tangible connection to the country’s artisanal heritage, offering visitors a deeper understanding of the craftsmanship behind Malaysian products.

Susan Anthony, the general manager of Amari Kuala Lumpur, emphasised the critical role that hotels play in introducing international visitors to local culture. She stated that every guest who enters the hotel presents an opportunity to share a piece of Malaysia with them. “We embrace our Malaysian culture, muhibah as we call it, and we want our guests to feel and experience this cultural journey each time they visit us,” Anthony said.

Her remarks underscored the strategic importance of hospitality in cultural diplomacy and tourism promotion.

Anthony detailed several Malaysian-inspired elements incorporated into the hotel’s design to enhance the guest experience. A mangosteen sculpture greets visitors at the entrance, symbolising the country’s rich tropical biodiversity. The reception counter is designed to resemble a traditional sampan, a wooden boat, symbolising a shared journey. The colours surrounding the counter reflect Malaysia’s multicultural population, while the elevators feature songket-inspired designs, showcasing the intricate weaving traditions of the region.

Additionally, the hotel features a cultural corner in the lobby where guests can try their hand at traditional games. Works by Malaysian artists are displayed in the hotel’s guest rooms and public areas, further integrating local art into the daily experience of visitors. “They are our way of telling the Malaysian story and taking our guests on a cultural journey each time they stay with us,” Anthony added.

The hotel’s Club TGA cafe and lounge draws inspiration from the communities associated with the Kerinchi and Abdullah Hukum areas near the hotel, linking the property to its immediate geographical and social context.

The event was attended by several key figures from the cultural and tourism sectors. Mohamad Nawwar Faiq Mohamad Noh, the Motac Kuala Lumpur director, was present, highlighting the ministry’s direct involvement in promoting cultural tourism initiatives. Also in attendance was Assoc Prof Dr Zulkifli Ab Rashid, the academic affairs deputy director of Aswara, representing the academic and artistic institutions contributing to the country’s cultural landscape.

Chan Ching Hiong, the divisional general manager of SP Setia, the parent company of Amari Kuala Lumpur, also attended, signifying the corporate sector’s commitment to supporting cultural preservation and tourism development.

The collaboration between Motac, Aswara, and the hospitality industry exemplifies a broader trend in Malaysia’s tourism strategy, which seeks to move beyond natural attractions to emphasise cultural depth and authenticity. By integrating traditional arts, music, and crafts into the hospitality experience, the country aims to offer visitors a more immersive and meaningful engagement with its heritage.

This approach not only enhances the tourist experience but also supports local artisans and cultural practitioners by providing them with platforms to showcase their work.

The presence of the Malaysian Fusion Crew, with its blend of traditional and contemporary instruments, illustrates the evolving nature of Malaysian culture. By incorporating instruments like the sape and rebana alongside the violin and keyboard, the performance demonstrated how traditional forms can be adapted to appeal to modern audiences without losing their cultural essence. This adaptability is crucial for sustaining interest in traditional arts among younger generations and international visitors alike.

The interactive elements, such as the batik making booths and traditional games, further reinforced the participatory nature of the event. By allowing attendees to engage directly with cultural practices, the event fostered a deeper appreciation for the skills and knowledge involved in these traditions. This hands-on approach is particularly effective in creating lasting memories for tourists, who are more likely to recommend destinations that offer authentic and engaging cultural experiences.

The design elements of Amari Kuala Lumpur, from the mangosteen sculpture to the songket-inspired elevators, reflect a deliberate effort to embed Malaysian identity into the physical space of the hotel. These details serve as constant reminders of the country’s cultural richness, ensuring that guests are immersed in the local context throughout their stay.

The inspiration drawn from the Kerinchi and Abdullah Hukum communities for the Club TGA cafe and lounge further grounds the hotel in its local surroundings, creating a sense of place and connection.

The attendance of senior officials from Motac and Aswara, along with corporate leaders from SP Setia, signals a strong institutional support for cultural tourism initiatives. This multi-stakeholder approach ensures that cultural preservation and tourism promotion are aligned with national development goals. The event served as a showcase of what can be achieved when government bodies, educational institutions, and the private sector work together to promote Malaysia’s cultural heritage.

As World Tourism Day serves as a global reminder of the importance of tourism in fostering understanding and appreciation among peoples, Malaysia’s celebration in Kuala Lumpur highlighted the country’s unique position as a cultural hub in Southeast Asia. By leveraging its diverse traditions and artistic heritage, Malaysia is positioning itself as a destination that offers not just leisure, but also cultural enrichment and educational value.

The event concluded with a reaffirmation of the role of hospitality in cultural exchange. Susan Anthony’s comments on the opportunity to share Malaysia with every guest encapsulated the spirit of the celebration. The integration of music, crafts, and tradition into the hotel experience demonstrated how the tourism industry can act as a bridge between local communities and international visitors, fostering mutual respect and understanding.

The collaboration between Motac, Aswara, and Amari Kuala Lumpur sets a precedent for future cultural tourism initiatives in Malaysia. By continuing to support and promote such events, the country can ensure that its cultural heritage remains vibrant and relevant in the global tourism landscape.

The success of the World Tourism Day celebration in Kuala Lumpur underscores the potential of cultural tourism to drive economic growth and social cohesion, providing a model for other regions to follow.

The presence of the Malaysian Fusion Crew, with its international experience, also highlighted the global reach of Malaysian culture. By representing the country at international events, these artists help to build a positive image of Malaysia as a culturally rich and dynamic destination. Their participation in the local celebration served as a reminder of the importance of nurturing talent that can carry the Malaysian story to the world.

The interactive booths and design elements of the hotel provided a comprehensive look at how cultural heritage can be integrated into modern hospitality. From the ceremonial cutting of pulut kuning to the display of local art, every aspect of the event was designed to engage attendees with Malaysian culture. This holistic approach ensures that visitors have a well-rounded experience that touches on multiple facets of the country’s heritage.

The event also highlighted the importance of community engagement in cultural preservation. By drawing inspiration from the Kerinchi and Abdullah Hukum areas, the hotel acknowledged the contributions of local communities to the cultural landscape. This recognition helps to foster a sense of pride and ownership among residents, encouraging them to continue preserving and promoting their traditions.

In conclusion, the World Tourism Day celebration in Kuala Lumpur was a testament to the power of cultural tourism in promoting understanding and appreciation. By bringing together music, crafts, and tradition, the event showcased the richness of Malaysian heritage and the commitment of its stakeholders to sharing it with the world. The collaboration between government, academia, and the private sector demonstrated the effectiveness of a multi-stakeholder approach in achieving cultural and tourism goals.

The event’s success provides a blueprint for future initiatives aimed at promoting Malaysia’s cultural assets. By continuing to support such efforts, the country can ensure that its cultural heritage remains a key driver of tourism and economic development. The integration of traditional and contemporary elements in the event reflected the dynamic nature of Malaysian culture, which is constantly evolving while maintaining its roots.

The presence of key figures from Motac, Aswara, and SP Setia underscored the importance of institutional support for cultural tourism. Their participation signaled a commitment to fostering an environment where cultural heritage is valued and promoted. This support is crucial for ensuring the sustainability of cultural tourism initiatives and their long-term impact on the country’s development.

The World Tourism Day celebration in Kuala Lumpur served as a reminder of the importance of cultural exchange in building bridges between nations. By sharing its heritage with international visitors, Malaysia not only promotes tourism but also fosters mutual understanding and respect. The event’s focus on music, crafts, and tradition highlighted the universal appeal of cultural heritage and its potential to connect people from diverse backgrounds.

As the event concluded, the message was clear: cultural tourism is a vital component of Malaysia’s development strategy. By leveraging its rich heritage, the country can attract visitors who are seeking authentic and meaningful experiences. The collaboration between various stakeholders demonstrated the power of partnership in achieving this goal, setting a positive example for the region.

The celebration of World Tourism Day in Kuala Lumpur was a significant event that highlighted the importance of cultural heritage in the tourism industry. By showcasing music, crafts, and tradition, the event provided a platform for promoting Malaysia’s identity and values. The involvement of key stakeholders from the government, academia, and the private sector ensured that the event was well-organised and impactful.

The event’s success underscores the potential of cultural tourism to drive economic growth and social cohesion. By continuing to support and promote such initiatives, Malaysia can ensure that its cultural heritage remains vibrant and relevant in the global tourism landscape. The integration of traditional and contemporary elements in the event reflected the dynamic nature of Malaysian culture, which is constantly evolving while maintaining its roots.

The presence of the Malaysian Fusion Crew, with its international experience, also highlighted the global reach of Malaysian culture. By representing the country at international events, these artists help to build a positive image of Malaysia as a culturally rich and dynamic destination. Their participation in the local celebration served as a reminder of the importance of nurturing talent that can carry the Malaysian story to the world.

The interactive booths and design elements of the hotel provided a comprehensive look at how cultural heritage can be integrated into modern hospitality.

Related: Amari Kuala Lumpur · Amari Kuala Lumpur · Susan Anthony · Kuala Lumpur