Kuantan City The capitol of Pahang StateMalaysians are diversifying their travel plans for the upcoming December holidays, according to new data from digital travel platform Agoda. Whilst traditional favourites like Kuala Lumpur, Penang, and Langkawi remain popular, there is a noticeable increase in interest for less familiar destinations such as Kuantan, Kuala Terengganu, and Sibu.
Agoda's Country Director for Malaysia and Brunei, Fabian Teja, noted that whilst Malaysia's established holiday hotspots continue to lead, travellers are increasingly considering lesser-known places. "That gives secondary destinations a real chance to attract more visitors when they offer something distinctive, good value, and a trip that is straightforward to plan," he said.
Langkawi remains a top choice for those seeking a full island holiday experience, with searches increasing by 58% from 2025. Meanwhile, Kuantan, which offers a blend of coastal relaxation and city conveniences, saw a 111% rise in searches, indicating a growing interest in flexible coastal trips.
Malacca continues to be a favourite for cultural weekends, with searches up by 82%. In contrast, Kuala Terengganu, known for its traditional crafts and coastal setting, experienced a 114% increase in interest, suggesting a preference for slower-paced cultural getaways.
Johor Bahru and Port Dickson have also climbed in popularity, appealing to those seeking easy-to-plan trips. Johor Bahru offers a mix of food, shopping, and family attractions, whilst Port Dickson provides a quick coastal escape.
Agoda's findings, based on searches from 1 May to 31 July 2026, highlight a shift towards more personalised travel experiences, with Malaysians exploring a wider array of destinations for their year-end breaks.
This story was selected and published by a human editor, with content adapted from original press material using AI tools and checked by the editor before publication. Spot an error? Report it here.
