KUALA LUMPUR, Oct. 5 -- Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Datuk Seri Tiong King Sing has clarified that Tourism Malaysia was not responsible for serving alcohol at a recent Gala Dinner held during the Global Travel Meet.

In a statement today, Tiong said the cateringwas organised by the private sector and not part of Tourism Malaysia's official programme, adding that the agency's role was limited to launching the Visit Malaysia 2026 events calendar at the same venue.

"Tourism Malaysia did not provide food or beverages during the dinner. It was hosted by our partners from the tourism industry," he said.

The minister said the Global Travel Meet generated an estimated RM420 million in economic impact and was aimed at promoting Malaysia as...