Madani Week: A Warm Invitation to Explore the 'Heart' of Malaysia

Malaysian Ambassador to Vietnam Dato' Tan Yang Thai speaks at a press conference on July 29. (Photo: PH)

The event was organized by the Malaysian Embassy in Vietnam in collaboration with the Malaysian Tourism Authority with the message that the week is not only a cultural event, but also a warm invitation to explore the “heart” of Malaysia.

“Through rich traditions, diverse cuisine and vibrant cultural life, we hope to spread the spirit of friendship and solidarity between Malaysia and Vietnam,” Malaysian Ambassador to Vietnam Dato' Tan Yang Thai shared at the press conference.

Ambassador Dato' Tan Yang Thai emphasized that Malaysia is a multi-ethnic country where Malay, Chinese, Indian and indigenous cultures live together in harmony. This diversity in unity is also reflected in Vietnam, creating a strong relationship between the two countries, based on the foundation of respect and understanding.

According to Ambassador Dato' Tan Yang Thai, the focus of this year's series of activities is built on the spirit of Malaysia Madani - an initiative of the Prime Minister of Malaysia, emphasizing the values of sustainability, humanity and trust.

Through the event, Malaysia hopes to promote deeper cooperation with Vietnam in the fields of tourism, culture, education and trade.

A traditional Malaysian dance performance at the press conference. (Photo: PH)

Last year, Malaysia welcomed more than 336,000 Vietnamese visitors. In the first half of 2025 alone, more than 168,000 people traveled between the two countries - impressive figures that demonstrate the growing bond, attraction and friendship between the two sides.

Ambassador Dato' Tan Yang Thai stressed that the connectivity infrastructure between the two countries is increasingly developing. As of March, there are 167 direct flights per week between Malaysia and Vietnam, including an increasing number of overnight flights, opening up more flexible options for tourists and diverse travel programs.

On this occasion, Ambassador Dato' Tan Yang Thai provided details about the Madani Week Malaysia as follows:

From July 30 to August 3, the Selera Malaysia - Malaysian Food Festival at Sheraton Hanoi Hotel will bring diners to experience the typical culinary flavors of Malaysia - from Malay, Chinese, Indian dishes to local dishes - combined with traditional music and dances.

On August 1, the Business Forum hosted by the Malaysian Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry will bring together strategic partners from the two countries to promote new cooperation opportunities.

Malaysian dancers pose for photos with reporters at the press conference. (Photo: PH)

Also on August 1, the Tourism Authority of Malaysia and Vietnam Airlines will sign a new cooperation agreement to enhance connectivity and convenience in travel between the two countries.

The Visit Malaysia 2026 campaign will be officially launched at a reception hosted by Malaysia's Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture, Dato' Seri Tiong King Sing, on the same evening.

On August 2, Tourism Malaysia and the Malaysian Education Office will co-organize a seminar to introduce the Visit Malaysia 2026 campaign and discuss cooperation possibilities in the tourism and education sectors, towards the goal of welcoming 26 million international visitors next year.

The public activities of the Festival will take place from August 2-3 at Aeon Mall Long Bien, with the official opening ceremony chaired by the Malaysian Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture. Visitors will be immersed in the festival atmosphere with special art performances and rich cultural activities throughout the two weekends.

“On the occasion of the 30th anniversary of Vietnam joining ASEAN and Malaysia assuming the rotating role of ASEAN Chair this year, let us remember that beyond the numbers or cooperation results are the friendship, understanding and meaningful experiences that we share,” Ambassador Dato' Tan Yang Thai emphasized at the press conference.

From July 30 to August 3, the Selera Malaysia - Malaysian Food Festival at the Sheraton Hanoi Hotel will bring diners to experience the typical culinary flavors of Malaysia. (Photo: Embassy of Malaysia)

In an interview with the press, Ambassador Dato' Tan Yang Thai shared that fruits, especially durian and other tropical fruits, are the pride of Malaysia. Varieties of durian, such as Musang King, have gained global fame, thanks to early promotion efforts, especially in China. The durian industry is growing strongly and now contributes to many economies in the region, including Vietnam.

The Ambassador said: "Southern Vietnamese cuisine is closer to Malaysian cuisine - with a spicy and rich taste. Northern cuisine is a bit different but also very delicious. I hope this festival will arouse curiosity and lead to the opening of more Malaysian restaurants and fast food chains in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City."

According to Ambassador Dato' Tan Yang Thai, Malaysia is implementing flexible and open tourism policies, including visa exemption for up to 30 days for ASEAN citizens, including Vietnam. This helps to simplify procedures, reduce costs and increase accessibility.

Malaysia also supports regional tourism initiatives such as the Six Countries - One Destination program with Thailand, Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia and Myanmar. The Malaysia - Second Home program also attracts many Vietnamese, especially experts who want to live long-term or retire in Malaysia.

Other campaigns such as Visit Malaysia Year and Malaysia Mega Sale are also being rolled out vigorously. In addition, according to Ambassador Dato' Tan Yang Thai, Malaysia is investing in education tourism and medical tourism - areas that offer authentic and meaningful experiences. Malaysia's advanced healthcare system is now attracting many international customers.

Source: https://baoquocte.vn/tuan-le-madani-loi-moi-goi-nong-hau-de-kham-pha-trai-tim-cua-malaysia-322659.html