There’s reason to travel to Malaysia this year: The country is celebrating its biggest and grandest tourism celebration with the Visit Malaysia Year 2014. This year marks the fourth such year, and the theme will be “Celebrating Malaysia Truly Asia” to reflect the diversity and unity of the country.

The first Visit Malaysia year was celebrated in 1990, offering a tourism boost of nearly 3 million people. Similar campaigns followed in 1994 and 2007. This year’s, the biggest yet, aims to promote tourism and reach 36 millions tourist arrivals per year by 2020. 

Hundreds of events and festivals will be celebrated throughout the year, including the World Kite Festival, Future Music Festival Asia, Formula 1 Petronas Malaysia Grand Prix, Archipelago Drums Festival, Malaysian Motorcycle Grand Prix and the Penang International Jazz Festival. That’s only a quick glimpse at the biggest events — so much more awaits those who visit Malaysia in 2014.

At a recent press conference for Malaysia, I was pleased to learn even more about the country and all there is to see and do. It’s always been a place to visit on my travel wish list; after learning more, it’s even higher on the ranking. Hopefully, I can get there in 2014 and join in all the fun festivities. 

— Kim Krol, managing editor