Forget sightseeing—these days, travellers are chasing flavours, not just photos. Food tourism is the new buzz, and for a good reason.
Why snap a boring picture of a monument when you can have an Insta-worthy plate of street food instead? That’s exactly what’s happening in Asia, and Malaysia is right in the mix, climbing the ranks as one of the top spots for food lovers.
M’sia Ranked 5th Best Food Destination In Asia
According to a survey by Agoda, Malaysia has snagged the fifth spot on Asia’s most popular food paradise list.
Nearly half (49%) of the visitors say they came for one reason and one reason only: to eat their way through the country’s rich and diverse food scene.
And let’s be real—who wouldn’t, with all that delicious nasi lemak and char kuey teow waiting for them?
Leading the foodie pack is South Korea, with 64% of tourists putting food as their main travel motivation.
Taiwan, Thailand, and Japan are also giving everyone a run for their money. But Malaysia’s secret weapon? A multicultural food lineup that’s got something for everyone, from spicy curries to iconic street eats.
Food over flights
Fabian Teja, Agoda’s Malaysia and Brunei Director, didn’t mince words.
“There are some tourists who feel so excited that they book restaurants abroad before even getting their flight tickets,” Teja explained. “Our survey data clearly shows that tourists are looking for destinations to enjoy local food and traditions, not just sightseeing.”
This survey, held from August 1 to 19, collected insights from over 4,000 respondents across 10 countries, including Malaysia, Japan, and Singapore.
Singaporeans’ favourite foodie destination
And, surprise, surprise—Malaysia is the go-to spot for Singaporean foodies, while Malaysians often hop over to Thailand, Indonesia, and Taiwan to satisfy their taste buds.
