AIRASIA marked a new milestone for Penang’s tourism and trade sectors with the launch of a direct flight route between Shenzhen and Penang.
At a welcoming ceremony at Penang International Airport, Penang Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Wong Hon Wai highlighted the route’s importance for strengthening ties between Penang, Shenzhen, and the Greater Bay Area.
“The opening of this route will undoubtedly expand the state’s international aviation network further, establishing a new aerial bridge for trade and cultural exchange between Penang and Shenzhen, as well as the Greater Bay Area, leading to mutual benefits,” Wong told a media conference this morning.
The inaugural Shenzhen-Penang flight, designated AK1691, departed from Shenzhen Bao’an International Airport at 5.33am and arrived at Penang International Airport at 8.53am; with the return flight AK1690 scheduled to depart from Penang at 10.45pm, reaching Shenzhen at 2.35am the next day.
This route, operating four times weekly (Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays), marks a promising addition to AirAsia’s network and is set to cater to increased demand for travel between the regions.
Wong stressed AirAsia’s pivotal role in Penang’s connectivity.
“With a total of 208 weekly flights, AirAsia is a vital pillar of Penang’s aviation network, playing an indispensable role in enhancing the state’s position as an international tourism and business hub.
“AirAsia’s routes contribute nearly one-third of the total 640 weekly flights operating in Penang, making their contributions to the flourishing of the aviation network truly commendable,” he noted.
AirAsia also serves key Malaysian cities, with flights to Johor, Kota Kinabalu, Kuala Lumpur, Kuching, and Langkawi.
On the international front, it connects Penang to Hong Kong, Singapore, Jakarta, Bangkok, and other Southeast Asian destinations, positioning Penang as a convenient gateway for travellers from the region.
Wong revealed that the expansion of Penang’s direct flights to East Malaysia was also a result of collaborative efforts with AirAsia.
”Last year, I proactively wrote to AirAsia, suggesting the restoration of direct flights between Penang and East Malaysia.
“I am grateful that AirAsia took this suggestion seriously and responded positively,” he shared, noting that routes from Kota Kinabalu and Kuching to Penang resumed on March 31 this year.
The new Shenzhen-Penang connection opens up opportunities to tap into Shenzhen’s sizable population of 17.79 million, as reported by the Shenzhen Municipal People’s Government.
Wong highlighted the benefits of connecting Penang with Shenzhen’s robust consumer market.
“The substantial population and strong purchasing power of Shenzhen present significant development opportunities for Penang’s tourism and retail sectors.
“This new direct flight is a catalyst for increased collaboration between the two regions.”
He also noted the Greater Bay Area’s vast network.
“The Greater Bay Area is undoubtedly fertile ground for the development of Penang’s tourism industry. Direct flights serve as a solid bridge for connecting the two regions and promoting exchange and cooperation,” Wong said.
In a statement, AirAsia Malaysia managing director Datuk Captain Fareh Mazputra expressed his enthusiasm for the new route.
“It is a pleasure to welcome our guests on this inaugural flight from the vibrant city of Shenzhen to Penang, renowned for its rich cultural heritage and exquisite local cuisine.
“As the largest foreign low-cost carrier in China, we are confident that we can draw more Chinese tourists to Penang, particularly with the Malaysian government’s visa-free initiative allowing stays of up to 15 days, valid through the end of next year,” he said.
He added: “We look forward to introducing additional routes from this hub, which will not only support Penang’s tourism goals but also enhance the travel experience and offer more affordable options across the region for our guests.”
Also present were Komtar assemblyman Teh Lai Heng, AirAsia government relations (northern region) director Kenneth Tan, Penang Global Tourism chief executive officer Ooi Chok Yan, Malaysian Association of Hotels (MAH) Penang chairman Datuk Tony Goh, and Tourism Malaysia (northern region) assistant director Zuraidah Abu Bakar.
Story by Christopher Tan
Pix by Law Suun Ting