Collaboration Aims to Boost Tourism and Cultural Exchange
Malaysia and Uzbekistan are set to deepen their bilateral relationship through strategic tourism collaboration, with the goal of positioning Uzbekistan as a premier travel destination for Malaysians. This partnership, driven by the Malaysia-Uzbekistan Business Alliance (MUBA) and supported by the Malaysian Association of Umrah and Hajj Travel Agents (PAPUH), aims to introduce Uzbekistan’s rich Islamic heritage and cultural treasures to Malaysian travelers.
MUBA President, Datuk Seri King Lim Chin Fui, highlighted Uzbekistan’s appeal as “The Pearl of the East,” offering both tourism and spiritual journeys for Umrah and Hajj pilgrims. “With Uzbekistan’s historical Islamic sites and cultural richness, it is the perfect destination for those seeking both adventure and spiritual fulfillment,” he remarked at the launch of the ‘Travel Together to Uzbekistan’ initiative.
Promoting Cross-Cultural Travel Experiences
The initiative, a collaboration between Travel Together (Uzbekistan) and Nautica Travel & Tours Sdn Bhd (Malaysia), aims to increase tourist flow between the two nations while introducing Malaysia to the Central Asian market. “Uzbekistan’s unique combination of cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality offers an exceptional travel experience for Malaysians,” said Chin Fui. The visa-free travel policy for Malaysians further enhances the attractiveness of Uzbekistan, allowing for up to 30 days of exploration.
Growing Bilateral Tourism
Uzbekistan’s Ambassador to Malaysia, Dr. Karomidin Gadoev, reaffirmed the importance of tourism as a key pillar in the Malaysia-Uzbekistan partnership. “Tourism is not just an economic driver but a cultural bridge between our countries,” he said. He also noted that the bilateral discussions during Malaysian Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s visit to Uzbekistan in May 2024 further underscored the significance of this cooperation.
In 2024, nearly 4,000 Malaysians visited Uzbekistan, a number expected to grow as safety and security remain top priorities. Uzbekistan ranked first in the Safety Perceptions Index 2023, reflecting the country’s strong appeal to international travelers.
Looking Ahead
This partnership aims to create unique travel experiences, foster cross-cultural understanding, and further strengthen bilateral ties between Malaysia and Uzbekistan. With Uzbekistan’s historical richness and growing international reputation, the collaboration promises to bring significant benefits to both nations.
