KUALA LUMPUR – Umno Youth Chief Muhammad Akmal Salleh said he will present evidence to Seputeh MP Teresa Kok on how Melaka has become one of Malaysia’s top tourism states without organising disco-style street events like those in Bukit Bintang.
Akmal made the remarks in response to Kok’s call for him to propose constructive ideas to attract foreign tourists and boost the local economy ahead of Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026).
According to Akmal, Melaka recorded about 15 million tourists last year, generating nearly billions of ringgit in tourism revenue.
“There are no government-sponsored street disco events in Melaka.
“Yes, we do organise water festivals, but ours incorporate traditional elements where visitors are introduced to traditional attire, songs, and cultural performances—not street disco shows that you seem proud of,” he said.
Earlier, Kok had urged PAS and Akmal to stop merely opposing initiatives and instead present constructive proposals to attract tourists and stimulate the economy in conjunction with VM2026.
This follows objections by PAS and Akmal to the Rain Rave Water Music Festival in Bukit Bintang.
Selangor PAS Youth Chief Sukri Omar had claimed the event does not reflect Malaysian identity, while Akmal questioned why it was not cancelled on grounds of government spending.
Meanwhile, the Federal Territories Islamic Religious Department (JAWI) also opposed the event, citing concerns over moral implications and societal values.
Elaborating further, Akmal said promoting tourism should focus on showcasing Malaysia’s cultural heritage so that visitors can appreciate and understand local traditions.
“Not by adopting foreign cultures and promoting them instead. Street disco with water sprays is not Malaysian culture.
“If you want a class on Malaysian culture, I can arrange one for you, Teresa,” he added. — May 3, 2026