World · Singapore Bureau
Malaysia ramps up push to attract foreign visitors to Kelantan homestays
Malaysia is intensifying efforts to boost international tourism through its homestay programme in Kelantan, following modest visitor numbers in the first eight months of the year.
LSN Singapore ·
The Malaysia Homestay Experience Programme saw 7,208 tourist arrivals in Kelantan between January and August, prompting state authorities to escalate promotional activities aimed at drawing more foreign visitors to the region's accommodation offerings.
Kelantan, located on the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia, has positioned its homestay sector as a key component of its tourism strategy, offering visitors an opportunity to experience local culture and hospitality through stays in private residences.
The increased push reflects broader efforts by Malaysian tourism authorities to diversify visitor experiences beyond conventional hotel accommodations and to tap into the growing global demand for authentic, community-based travel experiences.
State officials have indicated that expanded marketing initiatives and enhanced promotional partnerships will be deployed to raise awareness of Kelantan's homestay options among international travellers, particularly from regional markets in Southeast Asia.