Langkawi has kicked off 2026 with the launch of its official Calendar of Events and a New Year countdown celebration at Dataran Lang, Kuah. The festivities marked a fresh start for the island and opened Malaysia’s Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026) campaign year.
Organised by the Langkawi Development Authority (LADA), the event highlighted the island’s readiness to welcome visitors and support tourism growth.
The launch was officiated by Datuk Seri Iskandar Bin Datuk Haji Mohd Kaus, CEO of LADA, and attended by dignitaries from the federal and state governments, Members of Parliament, State Assemblymen, and local authorities. Their presence emphasised Langkawi’s role as a key player in Malaysia’s tourism agenda.
The Calendar of Events 2026 features 151 cultural, community, sporting, and visitor-focused activities. The programme is designed to maintain visitor interest throughout the year, encourage longer stays, and provide opportunities for local operators to participate in the island’s tourism ecosystem.
“The Calendar of Events 2026 reflects our focus on quality, continuity and readiness as we enter Visit Malaysia 2026. Langkawi is well positioned to offer experiences that are welcoming, well-curated and grounded in the island’s character,” said Datuk Seri Iskandar.
The evening celebrations ended with live performances and fireworks at Dataran Lang, signalling the start of a vibrant tourism year.
The festive spirit continued on 1 January with a coordinated visitor welcome at key entry points, including Langkawi International Airport, Kuah Jetty, and the RORO Terminal. Arriving visitors were greeted with flower garlands and goodie bags, a warm reflection of the island’s hospitality.
The launch of the calendar and the island-wide New Year welcome mark a deliberate start to VM2026, positioning Langkawi as ready to play a leading role in Malaysia’s tourism resurgence.
