Kuala lumpur: Malaysia and Vietnam are set to enhance their cooperation in the tourism and cultural sectors, with an emphasis on developing medical and halal tourism, as announced by Malaysia's Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Tiong discussed the collaboration during a meeting with Vietnam's Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism, Lam Thi Phuong Thanh, on the sidelines of the 13th Tourism Ministers' Meeting in Macao, China. Thanh highlighted that both countries share strengths in tourism, culture, and the arts and expressed interest in Malaysia's advancements in medical and halal tourism sectors. She anticipates increased exchanges and closer collaboration between the two nations.

Tiong reaffirmed Malaysia's commitment to strengthening its ties with Vietnam, emphasizing tourism as a vital link connecting both peoples. He sees great potential for further collaboration in promotion, cultural exchanges, business events, and industry partnerships. Tiong noted that while visitor exchanges between Malaysia and Vietnam continue to grow, there remains significant potential to be tapped through stronger joint promotion, closer industry collaboration, and the development of more appealing tourism experiences.

Tiong acknowledged Vietnam as an important ASEAN partner, expressing his desire to build on the positive momentum and foster closer cooperation. He aims to create new opportunities for the tourism industries of both countries, strengthen people-to-people ties, and deliver mutual benefits. Thanh has invited Malaysia to participate in several major events in Vietnam, including APEC-related programs, the Vietnam International Travel Mart in Hanoi, a high-level dialogue on culture and creative industries, and an international cultural festival.