Malaysia's tourism sector to receive economic boost from Bahrain GP

Malaysia anticipates significant economic spillover into its tourism and service sectors with the upcoming Formula 1 (F1) Grand Prix at the Sepang International Circuit from October 2 to 4. The event is expected to generate substantial revenue not only in the immediate vicinity of Sepang but also across the Klang Valley.

Mohd. Amirul Rizal Abdul Rahim, Director-General of Tourism Malaysia, stated that Bahrain's choice of Malaysia as a replacement host will contribute to tourist arrivals during Visit Malaysia Year 2026. Tourism Malaysia plans to meet with representatives from the Bahrain government, Bahrain Tourism, Gulf Air, and the Bahrain GP organizers next week to discuss further collaborations. "We do expect economic spillover. What is certain is the involvement of hotel and accommodation bookings, tour buses, food products, and others," he said.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has also requested an F1 Carnival to coincide with the Bahrain GP. Hotel bookings are expected to extend beyond Sepang and Putrajaya to Kuala Lumpur. The hosting of the world's premier motorsport event is also anticipated to draw visitors from neighboring countries, including Singapore, Indonesia, and Thailand.

Furthermore, the F1 race in Singapore the following week is expected to bring economic benefits to Malaysia, particularly Johor. The state's tourism sector typically sees an increase in accommodation and food bookings annually. Some visitors take the opportunity to explore other attractions in Johor after the race concludes. Malaysia actively collaborates with the Singapore Tourism Board for such events.

In parallel, a "Cuti-cuti Malaysia 2026" carnival is being held in Johor, in collaboration with a local media company, to promote Malaysian tourism products for Visit Malaysia Year 2026 and Visit Johor Year 2026. This is the third iteration of the carnival, with plans for it to be held in other locations nationwide.

“

We do expect economic spillover. What is certain is the involvement of hotel and accommodation bookings, tour buses, food products, and others.