It’s official, Malaysians can enjoy a tax relief of up to RM1,000 when spending on travel and cultural products throughout #VisitMalaysia2025.
Announced during Belanjawan Madani 2026 by Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, it is hoped that this tax relief will generate a domino effect on the greater economy and benefit many, from local tourists, small businesses, and industry players.
Now, what does this means, what expenses are covered, and better yet, how can we maximize it?
We’ll uncover this tax relief perk below, and share some travel and cultural ideas that will help you plan your next #CutiCutiMalaysia destination.
What are the Eligible Expenses?
This tax relief covers expenses on Admission Fees to Local Tourist Attractions and Cultural Programs.
Where Can Local Tourists Go?
Besides travel, this tax relief is applicable to cultural and heritage experiences. That means museums, performances, nature parks and cultural centers.
Malacca’s Red Square
While Malaysia might be more remembered as once a British colony, it also has a colorful history as the Portuguese and Dutch also had their time in exerting their rule over the country.
This brick-red building was where the Dutch once ruled Malacca and was once the residence of Dutch officials. Today, its colonial remnants tell stories of the past and are the central point of this Malaysian city-state. Inside, you’ll get to hear tales of underground tunnels and even read the travel voyages of Cheng Ho!
Waiting for you at the entrance of Stadhuys are colorful trishaws that will further take you around Malacca’s famed attractions.
The many museums in the country
For a start, one can visit the National Museum (Muzium Negara) when in the commercial capital of KL or Borneo Cultures Museum in Kuching, gateway to Malaysian Borneo. Inside these museums, preservation of various cultures is set on display. There are free guided tours too, if you meet the visiting criteria and depending on the availability of each day.
R fav in Muzium Negara: Heritage Exhibition on Malay dynasties in Malay Peninsular and Borneo Island
R fav in Borneo Cultures Museum: Exhibition on Sarawak’s multicultural society and its textiles, artifacts, and 3D historical display.
Depending on the time of the day or month that you visit, sometimes these museums have cultural programs where visitors can take part. Museums are great cultural places to explore independently, too!
Do check their respective social media for timely updates on what’s happening.
Nature parks
As one of the oldest rainforest in this world, Malaysia is home to one of the most spectacular nature parks. Recently, during the 18th ASEAN Ministerial Meeting on the Environment in Langkawi, three parks have been bestowed as Asean Heritage Parks (AHP).
These are Bako and Bukit Lambir National Park, which are both located in Sarawak; and Tengku Hassanal Wildlife Reserve in Pahang.
Once famed for the iconic Cobra Head Sea Stack, a day trip to Bako will present surprises in nature and tranquility. The journey to Bako also comes with boat trips that present a boatride along the peninsula and maybe, sightings (or sounds) of the State bird, hornbill.
If you are traveling alone or independently, this Connect sub-group allows you to request Muslimah travel buddies from around the world, who will make up for an entire boat trip!
But besides these three AHPs, the country is blessed with many nature parks available in pretty much all states, for one to explore within a day, or the weekend.
Any nature park that has been on your radar? Do share with us the parks you’d like to visit in the comments below!
Encouraging Malaysians to Travel Domestically
Anwar, who is also the finance minister, mentioned that this incentive is to encourage the locals to travel within the country in conjunction with #VisitMalaysia2026.
If you are a Malaysian resident taxpayer, you will be able to maximize their tourist spendings this upcoming year with this tax relief in place. To claim for your annual income tax return, be sure to keep all your receipts as proof of expenditure.
For Ruhfarians, Malaysia is a welcoming nation for hijabis and Muslimahs alike. While you are enjoying the local travel and cultural attractions, why not include some time for some modest fashion shopping?
Stay tuned for Ruhfar Magazine Vol 1, dropping SOON!
For a start, it’s good to first list out where have you not been and research on the attractions held within the planned destination. Our upcoming Vol 1, will share some in-depth travel tales and guides you won’t want to miss.
