KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 9 — The duty-free shopping limit for visitors and tourists in Langkawi and Labuan is set to increase to RM10,000 to boost tourism on the two duty-free islands, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim announced.

However, Anwar said visitors and tourists must stay for at least 48 hours to enjoy the higher duty-free shopping limit.

“More locally made products from Langkawi will also be exempted from import duties to support local entrepreneurs,” he said.

Anwar, who is also the Finance Minister, said this when tabling Budget 2027 in the Dewan Rakyat today.

Addressing difficulties faced by residents and tourists in finding automated teller machines (ATMs) on some resort islands, Anwar said the government will expand QR code payments to 15 locations next year, including resort islands.

He said small traders often miss out on sales when customers did not have cash.

Anwar further announced that government has also extended the Visit Malaysia campaign until next year, with RM935 million allocated for tourism and culture.

He said among the initiatives under the Visit Malaysia campaign are the provision of incentive grants to tourism industry players to promote and organise tourism events.

“The government will also improve the quality of tourism facilities, including jetty infrastructure and heritage sites with the potential to be recognised by Unesco.

“These include Danum Valley in Sabah, Bujang Valley in Kedah and Taman Negara Pahang,” he said.

Anwar also said arts, culture and heritage will continue to receive support through the organisation of a Cultural Festival in conjunction with the SEA Games.

“The government will also support cultural and heritage industry players, including those involved in handicrafts, weaving and batik,” he said.

To improve international connectivity, Anwar said a Matching Grant for International and Charter Flights will be provided to establish new direct flight routes from China, India, Central Asia and Europe.

Anwar said the grant’s scope will be expanded to include cruise ships, ferries and tour buses bringing international tourists to Malaysia.

He also pointed out that Malaysia must become a preferred destination for major international events.

“To attract more such events, rebates will be offered to organisers holding events at venues with a capacity of at least 10,000 spectators.

“Tax incentives for international-standard incentive travel, conferences and trade exhibitions will also be extended until the 2030 year of assessment,” he said.