STARTING Dec 21, Tamil Nadu’s capital, Chennai, will have direct air connectivity with Penang, as IndiGo introduces new flights between the two culturally intertwined destinations.
The inaugural flight, IndiGo 6E1045, is scheduled to depart Chennai at 2.15am (Chennai time) and arrive in Penang at 8.30am (local Malaysian time). The return flight will depart Penang at 9.30am and reach Chennai by 10.35am.
To leverage this new route, Penang Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Wong Hon Wai unveiled a series of promotional initiatives aimed at attracting Indian travellers.
“These initiatives will showcase Penang as a world-class travel destination.
“We want Indian travellers to explore Penang’s rich culinary heritage, historical sites, pristine beaches, and natural landscapes, as well as our excellent facilities for MICE (meetings, incentives, conventions, and exhibitions),” Wong said during a press conference at the State Assembly Building in Light Street.
He highlighted Chennai’s strategic importance, noting its population of over 12 million as of October 2024, making it India’s fifth-largest city. Tamil Nadu, with a population of approximately 78 million, is one of India’s most densely populated states.
“India, with its population of 1.458 billion according to United Nation estimates, represents a massive market.
“The direct Chennai-Penang flight serves as a gateway to this thriving region, offering Indian travellers greater convenience to experience the allure of Penang,” Wong added.
He mentioned Chennai’s role as an economic, cultural, and educational hub in southern India, with a significant middle-class and affluent population.
These demographics, he noted, are ideal for outbound tourism, encompassing families, medical travellers, cultural enthusiasts, and destination wedding planners.
“Penang and Tamil Nadu share deep historical and cultural ties. Many members of Penang’s Indian community trace their roots to Tamil Nadu, a connection reflected in our shared languages, cuisines, and traditions,” Wong said.
Wong also highlighted the direct flight’s potential to bolster Penang’s position in the global tourism market while mitigating industry risks.
Penang Housing and Environment Committee chairman Datuk Seri Sundarajoo Somu echoed these sentiments, praising the initiative for strengthening Penang’s economy and offering greater travel convenience.
“This effort will cater to diverse needs, including tourism, business, and medical travel,” Sundarajoo said.
The press conference was attended by key state representatives, including Batu Uban assemblyman Kumaresan Arumugam, Bagan Dalam assemblyman Kumaran Krishnan, Pengkalan Kota assemblyman Wong Yuee Harng, Kebun Bunga assemblyman Lee Boon Heng, Penang Convention and Exhibition Bureau (PCEB) chief executive officer Ashwin Gunasekeran, and Chief Minister Incorporated (CMI) general manager Datin S. Bharathi.
Story by Kevin Vimal
Pix by Siew Chia En