PENANG’s tourism industry is poised for significant growth over the next two to three years, according to Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow.
Speaking at the soft opening of the Iconic Marjorie Hotel in Sungai Nibong, Chow highlighted the state’s swift recovery following the Covid-19 pandemic, emphasising its resilience and promising outlook.
“Penang Hill, one of our main tourist attractions, has almost recovered its pre-pandemic visitor numbers recorded in 2019,” Chow said.
“On top of that, there are numerous new hotels in Penang since 2019, alongside the addition of various direct international flights this year.
“The visa exemptions for travellers from China and India have further boosted tourism, making it easier for visitors to explore Penang and Malaysia as a whole,” Chow added.
Chow underlined Penang’s reputation as a food haven, attracting visitors eager to sample its diverse local cuisine.
Looking ahead, the chief minister pointed to the anticipated opening of the Penang Waterfront Convention Centre (PWCC) next year as a key development.
“The PWCC will be a catalyst for attracting exhibitions and events, further enhancing our tourism outlook,” he remarked.
During the reception for the soft opening of the new hotel, Chow extended his gratitude to all parties involved in bringing this project to fruition.
“It was only in February that I attended the opening of the Penang Marriott Hotel near Gurney Bay. The opening of yet another hotel shows the robust confidence investors have in our tourism industry,” he said.
“The state is bustling with cars and tour buses during holidays. We also welcomed approximately 6.18 million tourists – both domestic and international – from January to October this year.”
He also acknowledged the state’s collaboration with corporate players, as well as initiatives by the Penang Development Corporation (PDC) and the Northern Corridor Implementation Authority (NCIA), to promote the hospitality sector.
State Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Wong Hon Wai emphasised the importance of direct flights and visa exemptions in driving tourism growth.
“I will attend the launch of an inaugural direct flight from Xi’an to Penang next week. This marks a milestone for the aviation industry post-pandemic,” Wong said, expressing optimism for the sector’s continued success.
Iconic Marjorie Hotel Group general manager Kevin Cheah thanked all the parties for working tirelessly leading up to the soft opening, hoping the hotel will attract more tourists to Penang.
Among those present were Consul General of the People’s Republic of China in Penang Zhou Youbin, Sungai Puyu assemblyman Phee Syn Tze, former state executive councillor Datuk Seri Phee Boon Poh, Penang Island City Council (MBPP) mayor Datuk A. Rajendran, Iconic Group chairman Datuk Seri Tan Kean Tet, Iconic Worldwide Berhad executive director James Tan, and Marriot International vice president asset management Yeoh Soo Hin.
Story by Edmund Lee
Pix by Siew Chia En
Video by Law Suun Ting