KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA January 3, 2026 – In a bid to elevate Kuala Lumpur’s status as a world-class tourism destination, the Malaysian government has unveiled the “I LITE U” urban lighting innovation project, officially launched by Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim at the Pavilion Kuala Lumpur shopping mall on January 3.
The initiative, which stands for “Infrastruktur, Lampu, Inovasi, Teknologi, Eko Mampan ke arah Urbanisasi” (Infrastructure, Lighting, Innovation, Technology, Eco-Sustainable towards Urbanization), is designed to beautify the city’s landscape and boost global tourism appeal in preparation for Visit Malaysia Year 2026 (VMY 2026). The government aims to attract 28 million international visitors and generate RM76 billion in national revenue through the campaign.
Housing and Local Government Minister Nga Kor Ming highlighted the project’s multifaceted benefits during the launch. “This modern lighting infrastructure not only enhances the city’s aesthetic value but also strengthens public safety, pedestrian comfort, and local economic activities,” he said. The minister added that the model could be extended to other major cities, including Ipoh, George Town, Melaka, and Johor Bahru, to create more friendly, secure, and internationally competitive urban environments.
A collaborative effort involving the Ministry of Housing and Local Government (KPKT), the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC), the Federal Territories Department (JWP), and Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL), the project also receives strategic support from private partners such as Pavilion Kuala Lumpur, Bukit Bintang Kuala Lumpur City Centre (BBKLCC), PR1MA Corporation Malaysia, YTL Land, and Grab Malaysia. This public-private partnership underscores a unified approach to urban development.
Bukit Bintang, Kuala Lumpur’s vibrant tourism, cultural, and economic hub, serves as the pilot site. Key components include iconic Gateway Lighting as a landmark, a Visit Malaysia Year 2026 sculpture, and upgrades to existing and new pedestrian crossings with brighter, safer, and user-friendly illumination.
The project distinguishes Kuala Lumpur from other global cities by incorporating iconic urban lighting aligned with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 11 – Sustainable Cities and Communities. It emphasizes creating safe, inclusive, and sustainable urban spaces, improving nighttime accessibility for tourists while prioritizing energy-efficient and environmentally friendly technologies to support low-carbon city goals.
The launch event was enlivened with various activities, including a uniform parade, cultural performances, and the “Perarakan 16 Kontinjen Kuala Lumpur Bercahaya” (Illuminated Kuala Lumpur 16 Contingent Parade), featuring participants from government departments, agencies, and school students along routes near Pavilion Kuala Lumpur.
Adding star power to the occasion was Academy Award-winning actress Tan Sri Michelle Yeoh, who attended as the United Nations Goodwill Ambassador for Road Safety and Sustainable Development Goals. Her presence symbolized global endorsement of Malaysia’s efforts to promote its image on the world stage.
Beyond aesthetics, the initiative ties into broader national priorities, including cleanliness for VMY 2026. As chair of the subcommittee on tourism facilities, infrastructure, vibrancy, and cleanliness, KPKT is enforcing Community Service Orders (PKM) starting January 1, 2026, to foster a more environmentally conscious society. “The success of VMY 2026 depends not just on beautiful lights but on our nation’s cleanliness,” the ministry stated, expressing confidence that collaborative efforts will keep Malaysia a clean, safe, and tourist-friendly destination.
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