KUALA LUMPUR - Malaysia’s domestic tourism expenditure reached a record RM121 billion in 2025, according to the Department of Statistics Malaysia.

The figure represents an increase of RM14.3 billion from RM106.7 billion recorded in 2024.

Chief Statistician Uzir Mahidin said domestic tourism receipts rose 12.4 per cent year-on-year in the fourth quarter of 2025, as reported by Free Malaysia Today. 

Receipts totalled RM32.6 billion during the period.

He said the stronger performance was driven by increased travel activity among Malaysians.

This was particularly evident during school holidays and festive seasons.

In a statement, Uzir said sustained demand was reflected in higher spending across key sectors.

These include accommodation, food and beverages, transport and retail.

The total number of domestic tourists reached 74 million in the fourth quarter of 2025.

This marks a 10.8 per cent increase compared with the same period a year earlier.

For the full year, domestic visitor numbers rose 11.5 per cent to 290.1 million.

This compares with 260.1 million visitors recorded in 2024.

Airports recorded a 17.9 per cent year-on-year increase in domestic arrivals in the fourth quarter.

Retail sales of automotive fuel also rose by 7.1 per cent.

The accommodation subsector posted strong growth during the period.

Revenue increased by 14.7 per cent year-on-year in the fourth quarter.

Hotel occupancy rates also improved across all categories.

“Overall, Malaysia’s domestic tourism sector continues to function as a key pillar of economic growth, supported by rising visitor numbers, higher tourism expenditure, and resilient performance across tourism-related industries,” said Uzir.