Tiong points finger at 'extremists' after tourism promo clip panned for omitting Islamic identity

Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Tiong King Sing has launched a scathing attack on critics who questioned a video montage in conjunction with the launch of the Visit Malaysia Year 2026 campaign, labelling them as "extremists" who want to create disharmony.

"I am deeply disappointed with some irresponsible parties who are manipulating this issue with religious and racist sentiments and making it a source of division. It is this kind of extremist attitude that is disrupting our social harmony.

"I am also deeply opposed to the actions of some parties who distort our efforts as an agenda that goes against the spirit of Malaysia Madani," said Tiong in defending the 41-second clip which has since generated a flood of comments on social media.

The video, which was shown during the official launch of the Visit Malaysia Year 2026 campaign by Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim in Sepang on Jan 6, was shared by Tourism Malaysia on Facebook.

At the centre of the criticism is the fact that no mosques are shown in the clip, although non-Muslim places of worship such as a historic church in Melaka and the Hindu temple in Batu Caves are featured.

Many viewers felt that the video did not show Malaysia's dominant Islamic identity, while others pointed out that Malaysian mosques are known for their beautiful architecture.

Tiong however said the clip was aimed at promoting the country's tourism and attractions and not any religion or race.

He then explained that it was also intended as a brief launch video, adding that other elements "including the captivating architecture of mosques" would be included in a more comprehensive clip.

"To this end, these elements have been included in a more comprehensive promotional video, in which each element is presented in more detail. This video is in the final stages of the process and will be released in the near future," he said.

Tiong said the issue should not be politicised.

"We should remember that Malaysia is a multiracial country that emphasises the values of inclusivity and unity."