Malaysia: Backlash over tourism video prompts mosque campaign on TikTok

Malaysians have turned to TikTok to promote local mosques after criticism that the Visit Malaysia 2026 tourism video excluded Islamic landmarks, South China Morning Post reported. The campaign, aiming to attract 35.6 million international visitors and generate 147.1 billion ringgit (US$32.7 billion), featured Melaka’s Christ Church and Selangor’s Batu Caves but omitted mosques.

In response, TikTok users launched a counter-campaign, sharing mosque videos set to the same music as the promotional clip. Even official mosque accounts, like the Damansara Perdana Mosque, encouraged users to participate.

Tourism Minister Tiong King Sing defended the video as an introductory teaser and assured a more detailed clip showcasing mosque architecture is in development.

The incident highlights sensitivities in Malaysia’s multicultural society, where Malay Muslims form over 60% of the population. Tiong called for unity and mutual respect, emphasizing the need for harmony to support the tourism sector, which contributed 200 billion ringgit (US$44 billion) to the economy in 2024.