Bangladesh, Sept. 17 -- Malaysia has taken a narrow lead over Thailand in foreign visitor arrivals this year, highlighting intensifying competition between the two Southeast Asian tourism markets.

Tourism Malaysia reported 21.1 million international arrivals in 2026, slightly above Thailand's 20.9 million recorded between January and August, according to Thailand's Ministry of Tourism and Sports. Malaysia did not specify the latest date covered by its figure.

The competition is also visible in the countries' growing Chinese visitor markets. Malaysia received 2.56 million Chinese travelers during the first half of the year, up 17 percent from a year earlier. Thailand welcomed 3.54 million Chinese visitors, representing 16 percent growth...