Tourism Malaysia and Alipay+, the unified wallet gateway of Ant International, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to advance Malaysia's digital tourism landscape. This collaboration, announced on 14 October 2026, seeks to integrate seamless payments, in-app digital engagement, and AI-powered travel services to elevate the visitor experience and empower businesses.
As Malaysia gears up for Visit Malaysia 2026–2027, the partnership combines Tourism Malaysia's marketing strategies with Alipay+'s global wallet ecosystem and AI capabilities. This initiative aims to connect international travellers with local operators and Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), extending visitor spending beyond major tourist hubs. Mohd Amirul Rizal Abdul Rahim, Director General of Tourism Malaysia, emphasised the importance of digital technologies in reshaping travel experiences, stating that the initiative supports efforts to position Malaysia as a smart tourism destination.
The MoU builds on Alipay+'s existing success in Malaysia's digital commerce sector. In the first half of 2026, over 600,000 merchants, mostly SMEs, received payments via Alipay+ partner wallets, marking a 70% year-on-year increase. Michael Guo, Alipay+ General Manager for Southeast Asia, South Asia, and ANZ, highlighted the role of AI in connecting travellers with destinations and businesses, creating new opportunities for Malaysian enterprises.
A key feature of the collaboration is Alipay+ Voyager, an AI travel agent embedded in digital wallets, offering personalised cultural, culinary, and experiential recommendations. Additionally, Tourism Malaysia will introduce an AI-powered travel subsidy programme, enhancing visitor engagement with benefits for accommodation and attractions.
This partnership promises tangible benefits for Malaysian businesses, providing direct access to global travellers and fostering SME growth through exclusive campaigns. By leveraging digital platforms, Tourism Malaysia aims to create a connected, inclusive commerce ecosystem that benefits the national economy and enhances the traveller experience beyond the Visit Malaysia 2026–2027 campaign.
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