Malaysia welcomed 16,283 tourists from Uzbekistan between January and June 2026, representing a 62% increase compared to the same period last year, when 10,054 arrivals were registered, according to Tourism Malaysia data.
Uzbekistan has established itself as one of Malaysia's fastest-growing tourism markets in Central Asia. Overall, in the first six months of 2026, 53,347 tourists arrived in Malaysia from Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Turkmenistan, and Tajikistan, which is 23.3% more than the 43,280 arrivals recorded in the same period of 2025.
In addition to Uzbekistan, the number of tourists from Tajikistan has significantly increased, with its figure growing by 60.2%, reaching 2,131 people from 1,330. Kazakhstan maintained its status as the largest market in the region, showing an 11.8% growth in arrivals—from 23,527 to 26,296. 4,168 tourists came to Malaysia from Kyrgyzstan, compared to 3,666 the previous year, corresponding to an increase of 13.7%. Additionally, 4,469 people arrived in Malaysia from Turkmenistan in the first half of 2026.
Tourism Malaysia explains the growing interest in Malaysia partly due to cultural ties and the country's appeal to Muslim travelers. Malaysia is developing halal infrastructure, offering a wide range of halal cuisine, and possesses mosques and prayer areas.
Another factor contributing to the growth is the development of air transport. Kuala Lumpur has direct flights to Tashkent and Almaty. In July 2026, Batik Air increased flight frequency between Tashkent and Kuala Lumpur, and Uzbekistan Airways plans to add more flights on this route starting in October.
Nor Shazli Azmi, Director of Tourism Malaysia Almaty, noted that 'Central Asia is an important and increasingly dynamic market for Malaysia.' According to him, the increase in tourist numbers is accompanied by greater awareness of Malaysia throughout the region.
This rise in travel occurs against the backdrop of the international tourism campaign 'Visit Malaysia 2026-2027'. This initiative promotes not only famous attractions but also various Malaysian states, new tourist destinations, and leisure opportunities.
Nor Shazli Azmi also emphasized that travelers from Central Asia are increasingly choosing destinations that allow them to combine city trips, culture, gastronomy, beach holidays, natural attractions, shopping, and family entertainment in one trip.
Tourism Malaysia expects that the growth in tourist numbers and the expansion of air transport will further strengthen tourism ties between Malaysia and the countries of Central Asia.