As the Year of the Horse approaches, Malaysia’s most iconic hilltop destination is setting the tone for a festive season that blends tradition with imagination. Resorts World Genting has unveiled its Chinese New Year 2026 celebrations under the theme “CNY in the Sky,” transforming the cool mountain retreat into a vibrant cultural playground high above the lowlands.
More than a seasonal programme, the celebration reflects how Genting Highlands continues to position itself as a lifestyle destination, combining immersive entertainment, dining and storytelling in ways that appeal to families, holidaymakers and domestic travellers seeking meaningful festive escapes.
A highland celebration rooted in tradition
Set against the misty backdrop of Genting Highlands, this year’s Chinese New Year programme centres on reunion, renewal and shared joy. These themes resonate strongly with families who view the festive period as a time to reconnect, reflect and create new memories together.
Genting’s approach is not merely decorative. The resort has carefully woven cultural symbolism into its programming, offering visitors experiences that feel celebratory without losing authenticity. For many Malaysians, especially those in urban centres, destinations like Genting provide an accessible way to celebrate Chinese New Year away from daily routines while still honouring tradition.
Storytelling takes centre stage
At the heart of “CNY in the Sky” is the debut of Resorts World Genting’s Chinese New Year 2026 brand film. The film presents a visually rich narrative inspired by time-honoured customs and everyday festive moments, offering a contemporary take on Chinese New Year storytelling.
Rather than relying on spectacle alone, the film focuses on emotional resonance. Togetherness, gratitude and optimism form the backbone of the narrative, reflecting values that remain central to the season regardless of setting. This emphasis on storytelling reinforces Genting’s broader strategy of creating experiences that go beyond surface-level entertainment.
A record-setting immersive experience
This year’s celebrations also mark a significant milestone for Genting’s attractions. The Genting SkyWorlds Immersive Studio has earned recognition from the Malaysia Book of Records as the country’s highest-altitude immersive attraction.
Perched high above the clouds, the studio showcases how location itself can become part of the experience. Visitors attending the launch were treated to a preview of a Chinese New Year-themed immersive video presentation, where striking visuals and festive narratives unfold within an intimate, high-tech environment.
The immersive experience will be open to Genting SkyWorlds Theme Park guests from January 9 to March 3, making it a timely addition for school holiday trips and extended festive stays. For travellers planning short getaways, this offers another compelling reason to choose Genting as a Chinese New Year destination.
Introducing Tian Ma, the Year of the Horse mascot
Adding warmth and personality to the celebrations is the introduction of Tian Ma, the official Chinese New Year 2026 mascot and the latest member of Genting’s Highland Heroes family. Representing the horse zodiac, Tian Ma symbolises vitality, progress and forward movement, themes that align naturally with the optimism of a new year.
Limited-edition Tian Ma plush toys will be available exclusively to Genting Rewards members, creating a collectible keepsake that extends the festive experience beyond the visit itself. Such touches may seem small, but they play an important role in building emotional connection and brand recall, particularly for family-oriented destinations.
Festive dining that brings people together
Food remains central to any Chinese New Year celebration, and Resorts World Genting has curated an extensive range of dining experiences to match different group sizes and preferences.
From reunion dinners to celebratory feasts, the resort’s seasonal menus are designed to encourage shared moments around the table. Festivities begin with appreciation and welcoming dinners, while the Genting International Convention Centre offers pork-free banquet packages paired with accommodation at First World Hotel, catering to large family reunions and group gatherings.
Between mid-February and early March, restaurants such as Old Friends Restaurant, Season, Genting Palace by Crockfords and FUHU will present refined festive menus. Meanwhile, Coffee Terrace offers a lively Chinese New Year buffet that appeals to multi-generational diners.
The ever-popular Yee Sang, available from January 16 to March 3, adds an interactive element of prosperity and fun, reinforcing the communal spirit of the season.
Entertainment beyond the dining table
Beyond food and film, the resort comes alive with a full calendar of cultural activities. Visitors can enjoy Chinese New Year Eve countdown shows, Prosperity Shows, lion dance parades, traditional performances and interactive games.
A festive bazaar at Chin Swee Caves Temple adds another layer to the experience, blending spirituality, culture and celebration in one of Genting’s most atmospheric locations. Meanwhile, the Flower Market at SkyAvenue brings colour and energy to the resort, offering festive treats such as pineapple tarts, durian tarts and traditional delicacies.
These elements collectively transform Genting into more than a place to stay. During Chinese New Year, it becomes a destination where celebration unfolds across multiple spaces and experiences.
Why this matters for domestic travel
The scale and creativity of “CNY in the Sky” highlight a broader trend in Malaysia’s tourism landscape. Domestic travellers are increasingly seeking destinations that offer depth, variety and a sense of occasion, rather than simple accommodation.
Integrated resorts like Genting Highlands benefit from this shift. By combining entertainment, dining and cultural programming, they capture longer stays and repeat visits. This also supports surrounding economic activity, reinforcing the role of domestic tourism as a stabilising force.
Looking ahead to a festive year
“CNY in the Sky” also sets the tone for a year of celebration at Resorts World Genting, coinciding with Resorts World Awana’s 40th anniversary. Together, these milestones underscore the resort’s ongoing evolution and its commitment to delivering experiences that resonate across generations.
For travellers planning Chinese New Year 2026, Genting Highlands offers more than cool weather and scenic views. It offers a festive escape where culture, cuisine and creativity meet, all within easy reach of the Klang Valley.
As the Year of the Horse gallops in, Resorts World Genting’s elevated celebrations remind us that sometimes, the most meaningful festivities happen above the clouds.
