The Great Outdoor Expo 2025 (TGO) wrapped up at MAEPS, Serdang, on Sunday with a strong turnout and plenty of buzz.
The three-day event, which kicked off on Friday, drew thousands of visitors eager to rediscover Malaysia’s wealth of natural treasures.
Tourism Malaysia director-general Datuk Manoharan Periasamy (second from right) and Star Media Group (SMG) chief executive officer Chan Seng Fatt (centre) at the launch of TGO in collaboration with KCCM at MAEPS, Serdang. also in attendance are (from left) SMG chief content officer Datin Paduka Esther Ng, Tourism Malaysia deputy director-general Datuk Rafidah Idris and SMG chief operating officer Lydia Wang. — LOW LAY PHON/The Star
From interactive exhibits to adrenaline- pumping activities and eco-tourism showcases, the expo offered a taste of the great outdoors without leaving the city.
TGO formed part of the Karnival Cuti-Cuti Malaysia (KCCM), one of the highlights on the domestic tourism calendar.
Visitors gathering at the Tourism Malaysia booth during TGO, where travel information and local highlights draw strong interest. — FAIHAN GHANI/The Star
The synergy between the two events created a lively carnival atmosphere, blending family fun with outdoor adventure.
Adventure seekers found plenty to get their hearts racing.
Demonstrations such as vertical climbing, zipline rides and a camping gear showcase gave visitors a chance to test their skills and see the latest equipment in action.
Manoharan (left) and Chan (right) checking out the vendors at TGO in collaboration with KCCM held at MAEPS, Serdang. — RAJA FAISAL HISHAN/The Star
Fishing enthusiasts, meanwhile, were drawn to the booths featuring the newest rods, reels and accessories.
Many took the opportunity to test gear on the spot, making the experience both hands-on and engaging.
Young climbers testing their skills on a vertical climbing wall, one of the attractions at TGO. — FAIHAN GHANI/The Star
State tourism boards made a strong impression, each highlighting their unique natural attractions.
Pahang’s sandy beaches, Sabah’s world-class diving havens and Sarawak’s rainforest trails all pulled in curious travellers looking for inspiration for their next getaway.
Throngs of visitors checking out TGO, promoting local adventure and tourism. — RAJA FAISAL HISHAN/The Star
In total, more than 150 booths were set up by companies promoting outdoor gear, travel activities and eco-friendly experiences.
Their presence underscored the industry’s growing importance as Malaysians look to blend leisure with nature.
A visitor trying out an electric tricycle, part of the mobility and eco-friendly solutions for outdoor and leisure enthusiasts. — FAIHAN GHANI/The Star
Of course, no Malaysian event would be complete without food.
Some 30 mobile stalls serving up kampung favourites, festive delicacies and popular street eats added flavour and aroma to the carnival atmosphere.
Travel lovers were also treated to exclusive discounts and special packages on heritage tours, island escapes and eco-resorts.
Toyota’s rugged Hilux taking centre stage at the expo, highlighting its reliability as an off-road companion to outdoor enthusiasts. — FAIHAN GHANI/The Star
These limited-time offers proved especially popular, with many visitors snapping up bargains on the spot.
Star Media Group senior manager for events and exhibitions Elaine Wong said the strong response showed Malaysians were more than ready to embrace domestic travel again.
Asia RV staff showcasing a camper van to visitors at the event. — FAIHAN GHANI/The Star
“Judging from the strong response and turnout, TGO has rekindled Malaysians’ local travel interest, supporting small businesses and outdoor brands,” she said.
Wong added that the expo would play a role in encouraging more Malaysians to explore their own backyard ahead of Visit Malaysia 2026.
