Its chief, Sukri Omar, said while he is not objecting to Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026), major events should reflect Malaysia’s identity rather than copy foreign street party models that may not suit the local norms.

Sukri said Malaysia should look to other countries, such as Japan, South Korea and Turkey, that have successfully promoted tourism while still preserving their cultural identity.

“If identity is sacrificed, we lose not only our sense of self but also the uniqueness that draws the world to us.

“Successful tourism is not the loudest or flashiest, but that which is rooted in values, culture, and a distinctly Malaysian identity,” he said in a Facebook post today.

Tourism, arts and culture minister Tiong King Sing previously announced that the festival will run from May 1 to May 4, alongside Tourism Labour Day celebrations, with several roads in the area closed for the event.

Sukri also said Bukit Bintang, a busy commercial and transport hub, is ill-suited for a large-scale open-air water music festival.

“Closing roads in this area for three days will significantly affect urban mobility, small business operations, public safety, and the comfort of the public, including families and senior citizens,” he said.

He warned that the open-air festival and street-party format may conflict with local cultural values, public decorum and social harmony, given Malaysia’s multiethnic, Muslim-majority context.

He also said the festival could lead to accidents, overcrowding, vandalism, and pollution.

“Tourism planning should not focus solely on entertainment, but must be grounded in sustainability, community well-being, and the country’s image,” he said.