KUALA LUMPUR - The Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture has urged hotels to offer tourists a minimum 23-hour stay to strengthen the appeal of Visit Malaysia 2026.

The proposal was disclosed in a written reply by the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture Malaysia to the Dewan Rakyat, as reported by The Star

The ministry said the initiative forms part of its marketing strategy to enhance value for money for visitors.

In its response dated February 26, the ministry said guests could, for example, check in at 2pm and check out at 1pm the following day.

“This also improves tourists’ experience, making Malaysia’s hospitality offerings more competitive at the international level,” it said.

However, MOTAC stressed that check-in and check-out hours remain a commercial decision by hotel operators.

It also advised consumers to study and understand the terms and conditions set by accommodation providers before making reservations.

“Tourism is a competitive industry, and users have the right to choose,” the ministry said.

MOTAC added that discussions are under way with the Ministry of Housing and Local Government Malaysia to review the suitability of including operating hour standards in local council licensing requirements.

It said the move is aligned with ongoing efforts to strengthen regulatory oversight of the accommodation sector.

The ministry noted that these efforts are part of a wider review of the Tourism Industry Act 1992.

It said the review aims to reinforce its role in improving standards and service quality across the hospitality industry.

The reply was issued in response to a question by Gua Musang MP Mohd Azizi Abu Naim.

He had asked about efforts to standardise hotel and homestay check-in and check-out hours as part of tourism promotion initiatives.

The ministry said it will continue engaging industry players to balance business interests with visitor satisfaction ahead of Visit Malaysia 2026.