Melaka | 14 October 2025: The world-class international football action “Stars of Uruguay 2025 – Global Football Friendly in Malaysia” which took place at the Hang Jebat Stadium, Melaka yesterday has successfully attracted the attention of local and international football fans.
The friendly match involving the Uzbekistan team against Uruguay not only presented an exciting performance on the field, but also strengthened Malaysia’s position as a major destination for hosting international sporting events in the region.
This prestigious event, organised by Cohesion Prima and CRIC Global with the support of the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC), is in conjunction with the Visit Malaysia Year 2026 (VM2026) campaign and also receives the cooperation of the Melaka State Government, which is currently implementing the Visit Melaka Year 2024–2026 campaign. The presence of spectators at the Hang Jebat Stadium has had a positive impact on the domestic tourism sector, especially in the state of Melaka, through increased accommodation bookings, recreational activities, and tourist spending.
According to YB Dato Sri Tiong King Sing, Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture, the success of organising this event proves Malaysia’s ability as a credible host for international-scale sporting events.
“Organizing events like this is in line with the government’s desire to strengthen the sports tourism segment in an effort to attract more tourists to Malaysia ahead of Visit Malaysia Year 2026. It is also in line with the principles of MADANI Malaysia which emphasizes aspects of sustainability, progress and inclusiveness in national development,” he said.
The presence of world-class players in this match also brightens up the atmosphere and elevates Malaysia’s image as a dynamic, competitive and rich tourist destination with high-impact experiences for international tourists.
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Issued by:
CORPORATE COMMUNICATIONS UNIT
MINISTRY OF TOURISM, ARTS AND CULTURE (MOTAC)
Tel: 03-8000 8000 Fax: 03-88917181
Website: www.motac.gov.my Email: group.ukk@motac.gov.my
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