Malaysia is known to be one of the top tourism and travel destinations in the world. Promoted vigorously and extensively under the government of Malaysia, this is an industry which is highly potential and are capable of bringing in millions in revenue for the country every year registering over 10 million visitors for the year 2000 and accounting for more than RM17 billion in receipts resulting from tourists. A year later, the number would grow to more than RM24 billion and then grew to up to RM32 billion in the year 2005. Malaysia's highest Gross Domestic Product (GDP) contributor is in the services sector which contributes to more than 50%.

In 2006, the GDP for the country stood at RM1.09billion that projected a 5.9%. out of this figure, RM36million was contributed by the tourism industry. Apart from attracting foreigners and people from all over the region to visit Malaysia who will increase the foreign exchange of the country, this will also create new job opportunities for the people of Malaysia. This is where the service industry has benefited very much especially in terms of retail and tourism.

Since, 1999, Malaysia had heavily promoted the thrice yearly Malaysia Mega Sale, which is held nationwide attracting shoppers from the world over to come to the country and indulge in their shopping needs. While the country welcomes visitors all through the calendar year, the mega sale months usually would bring in another half a million of additional visitors or so, boosting the retail market and encouraging more openings of new malls and shops. On top of that, this has shown that the retail sector has benefited very much from such efforts spearheaded by the tourism market. In 2003, the retail market, which consists of around 700,000 employee which is about 7% of the total workforce of the country has increased to more than 10% 2 years later.

To a certain extent, the tourism industry is seen as one of the major industry in the country and is also a very successful one. Fresh from the conclusion of the Visit Malaysia Year 2007, which saw millions of tourists coming to the country for holidays as well as for events like the Malaysia Mega Sale, the Malaysian Formula 1 Grand Prix and many other related events, the country has created a well known persona for its own characteristics compared to other neighboring countries and competitors in the travel and tourism industry. The country is rich in nature and historical heritage while the diverse culture of the society and the multi racial traditions make it all the more attractive.

Malaysia is famous for its natural attractions like the national parks and sea side resorts.