BFM 89.9

HIGHLIGHTS 
Podcast  >  Enterprise  >  Enterprise Explores  >  The Economic Impact of Tourism Campaigns

The Economic Impact of Tourism Campaigns

Gary Bowerman, Co-Founder, High-Yield Tourism | Christyna Fong, Creative Director, The Chariot Agency

22-Jan-25 12:00

The Economic Impact of Tourism Campaigns

Tourism has always been a cornerstone of Malaysia’s economy, celebrated for its cultural diversity, natural beauty, and historic landmarks. The Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026) initiative aims to position the nation as a global tourism hotspot, but its journey has been marked by challenges.

From public backlash over a promotional video’s lack of cultural representation to debates about the campaign mascot and allegations of AI involvement, the initiative has sparked important discussions about cultural authenticity, inclusivity, and strategic planning.

Today's conversation with Gary Bowerman, Co-Founder of High-Yield Tourism, and Christyna Fong, Creative Director at The Chariot Agency, explores how Malaysia can design impactful tourism campaigns that resonate globally while honouring its unique identity.

Produced by: Carol Wong

Presented by: Richard Bradbury


This and more than 60,000 other podcasts in your hand. Download the all new BFM mobile app.

Categories:  controversiesgovernmentmanagingcultureHistory/Heritagetravel

Tags:  VM2026global tourism hotspotcultural representationtourismVisit malaysia 2026ai





Play / Pause

Listen now : World Market Watch: Carlos Casanova, Senior Economist, UBP tells us where international...

Today’s Shows



6:00 AM

The 6AM Stretch

Thought-provoking discussions on ideas, people and events shaping our lives.

7:00 AM

World Market Watch

Carlos Casanova, Senior Economist, UBP tells us where international markets are heading.

7:15 AM

Morning Brief

We recap global and local headlines from today's papers and portals.

7:30 AM

Morning Brief

Ken Foong, Analyst, Bloomberg Intelligence gives us an outlook for Singapore’s property market.

7:45 AM

Morning Brief

Lim Wei Jiet, Constitutional Lawyer discusses the urgent reforms needed to strengthen judicial manpower.

8:00 AM

The Breakfast Grille

Prof. James Chin of the University of Tasmania and Prof. Dr. Evan Lau Poh Hock of Universiti Malaysia Sarawak discuss the political and economic outlook for Sabah and Sarawak in 2026.

8:30 AM

Morning Brief

Amin Ashaari, CEO & Co-Founder of SoyaCincau, shares his views on government apps.

8:45 AM

Morning Brief

(REPEAT) We dive into the local and international news that matters to you.

9:00 AM

Opening Bell

(REPEAT) Carlos Casanova, Senior Economist, UBP tells us where international markets are heading.

9:15 AM

Opening Bell

(REPEAT) We take a look at the FBM KLCI as well as regional capital markets.

9:35 AM

The Property Show

Dr. Suraya Ismail of Khazanah Research Institute discusses homeownership and housing affordability in Malaysia.

10:05 AM

Open For Business

11:00 AM

The Workplace

Fahad Naeem, Country Director, Randstad Malaysia

12:00 PM

Enterprise Explores

Costco vs. Trump. Penta’s Bryan DeAngelis explores why retailers are suing over "Liberation Day" tariffs and if the White House’s domestic capital is waning. Plus, has the capture of Nicolás Maduro in Venezuela rewritten the power dynamic between D.C. and the Private Sector?

2:05 PM

Discovery Hour

An eclectic selection of BBC shows, curated with variety in mind.

3:05 PM

Earth Matters

We find out about a Semai fruit season homestay finally opening to the public, supported by Gerimis Art, sharing forest life, culture, and community-led ecotourism.

4:05 PM

Health & Living

UMMC performed a liver transplant that saved the life of a four-month-old baby. The surgical team shares the harrowing experience.

5:00 PM

Top 5 at 5

A countdown of the 5 biggest stories of the day, to catch you up on all you need to know!

6:00 PM

Big Issue

7:00 PM

Stories of KL

We learn about KL Car Free Morning- a weekly community initiative that opens KL streets up to the public.

8:00 PM

Cruise Control

Daniel Fernandez, Managing Editor, dsf.my