KUCHING, Dec. 21 -- Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing has cautioned that the ongoing controversy over festive decorations in Melaka must be handled carefully, as it risks leaving a negative impression at a critical time ahead of Visit Malaysia Year 2026.

Tiong said the issue, which involved Christmas decorations at hotel kitchens or outlets holding the Malaysian Halal Certification (SPHM), had been unnecessarily magnified and could undermine efforts to promote Melaka and Malaysia to international visitors.

He noted that the Melaka Islamic Religious Department (Jaim) had clarified that the restriction applies only to kitchens and dining areas with halal certification, and not to entire hotel premises.

"I have...