The Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) proudly celebrated the success of Cohort 3 of its Digital Tourism Innovation Lab (DTIL), a groundbreaking programme designed to accelerate digital transformation in Malaysia’s tourism sector. This year’s DTIL featured a series of exciting pitches from travel and tourism technology startups, each presenting game-changing solutions aimed at reshaping the future of tourism in Malaysia. The event aligns with the Ministry of Digital’s vision to position Malaysia as a digital leader in the region.
DTIL is more than a programme; it is a platform that builds and supports a thriving tourism tech ecosystem, catalysing new innovations to meet industry needs, drive digitalisation, and elevate Malaysia’s tourism offerings. Since its launch, DTIL has received an overwhelming response, with 117 applications over three cohorts. Of these, 24 companies were selected for an intensive 8-week programme that included mentorship, funding opportunities, and access to state-of-the-art facilities. Through this collaborative environment, participants worked alongside industry experts to develop innovative solutions that can significantly impact Malaysia’s tourism industry and local communities.
Held at Common Ground Bukit Bintang, the event marked a successful collaboration between MDEC and accelerator partner 1337 Ventures, drawing the attendance of high-profile leaders and key figures within Malaysia’s tourism and digital sectors. The representative from the Ministry of Digital presented certificates to the 24 participating companies and highlighted the programme’s impact. Several DTIL participants have already attracted funding from angel investors and VCs, while others reported increased revenues and successful expansions into regional markets.
Tourism is a vital pillar of Malaysia’s economy, with substantial potential to further boost the nation’s GDP. Global forecasts indicated that travel and tourism’s total GDP contribution will reach USD16 trillion by 2034, or 11.4% of the global economy, according to Statista. Key technology investments in travel and mobility between 2018 and 2024 have included AI, IoT, Immersive Tech, Blockchain, Web3, and Quantum Computing – areas where Malaysia is poised to make its mark.
With Visit Malaysia Year 2026 on the horizon, MDEC’s DTIL initiative is a timely step in transforming Malaysia’s tourism sector into a model for digital innovation in the region.
DTIL is set to continue empowering start-ups, innovators, and industry leaders to drive Malaysia’s digital tourism evolution, bringing fresh energy to the sector and creating meaningful contributions to the country’s economy and its communities.
